How to Money

Friday Flight - Space Stocks, Delaying Debt, & Home Insurance Hardships #1149

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s best financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like:

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Avoiding the 'Middle Class Trap' w/ Scott Trench #1148

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In Rockin' the Suburbs, Ben Folds pokes fun at the “struggles” of middle-class life… it’s angsty, a little whiny, but also tongue-in-cheek. It’s killer piano rock that makes you laugh because deep down, it’s a little too relatable. And that tension is still alive today. A lot of Americans, and plenty of HTM listeners, feel like they’re doing all the right things: saving diligently and investing wisely but at the cost of flexibility, and maybe even some joy right now. So how do you balance building wealth for the future without squeezing the life out of the present? That’s what we’re diving into today with Scott Trench. He literally wrote the book on this, Set for Life: Dominate Life, Money, and the American Dream, and he has helped thousands of people chart a path to financial independence. Today we discuss:

Frugality isn’t a virtue
Managing your biggest monthly expense
House hacking
Scott’s ideal day and vision document
Real estate as an inflation adjusted store of value
Index funds vs real estate
Optionality vs optimality
Illiquid investments and avoiding the middle-class trap
Why Scott doesn’t count his primary home as an investment
And much more!

Can’t get enough How To Money? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Scott: Check out Scott’s book on the topic, Set For Life as well as the resources he mentioned.
Cashback credit cards: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Liquid Cash (How Much is Too Much), AI WW3 Portfolios, & Shopping Local (for a Mortgage) #1147

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 08:00:00 +0000

We’re kicking off the week by answering your listener questions! And if you have a question that you’d like for us to answer on the show, we’d love for you to submit your own via HowToMoney.com/ask , send us your voice memo. Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!

1 - Retirement rollover: Should I pay the fee with Capitalize to expedite my 403b rollover, just wait, or are there other options?

2 - Too liquid: How do I know if I have too much cash since my financial goals are a number of years out?

3 - Safety vs growth: As I approach retirement, does it make sense to buy additional years of service to boost my pension?

4 - Local vs national: Should I pay more for my mortgage if it means better service with a local lender or is it only about the lowest rate?

5 - Autopilot: Is the “AI World War III” portfolio worth considering over on the Autopilot app?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.

MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a If It Doesn’t Have OJ I’m Not Drinking It by Two Tides Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Rent Reductions, Charity Parity, & Home Equity Sharing #1146

Fri, 29 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Case for a ‘Good Enough’ Financial Plan w/ Jesse Cramer #1145

Wed, 27 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Optimization is everywhere in the personal finance world. If we just invest perfectly, we’ll get where we want to go, faster… What's not to love?! Well, retirement planning might be a lot more like horseshoes and hand grenades, where getting close enough is actually good enough. And chasing perfection? That can come with some real downsides. Our guest today is a dear friend who brings clarity to the world of personal finance. Jesse Cramer began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer designing telescopes, and now brings that same precision (plus a genuine desire to help people) into the way he thinks about money. He writes over at The Best Interest, hosts his podcast Personal Finance For Long-Term Investors, and today we discuss:

Choosing to not max Roth IRAs
How to know if you’re Coast FIRE
Striking the balance between optimizing your finances and enjoying life
Reversion to the mean and this year’s stock market returns
The crushing cost of conservative retirement planning
Alternative investments
Does retiring earlier mean living longer
Aligning your money with your life
And much more!

Can’t get enough How To Money? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Cashback credit cards: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.

MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Sinking Fund or Pet Insurance, Balance Transfer Card Bonus, & Backfilling an HSA #1144

Mon, 25 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Pet insurance: As I’m expecting some big vet expenses, should I continue to pay for insurance for my dog?

2 - Roth vs 529: Should we save for our son’s college in a Roth since it gives us more flexibility?

3 - HSA: Can I backfill my health savings account to invest, after I pay for an expensive medical procedure?

4 - Cashless kid: What’s the best way for my 14 year old to pay for expenses while at a cashless summer camp?

5 - 0% balance transfer: Are there good balance transfer cards that have good cashback as well?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.

MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Grapefruit Substance by Bissell Brothers! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Insurgent I-Bonds, Trendy Tiny Homes, & Cutting The Big 3 #1143

Fri, 22 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The $1M Scholarship Strategy w/ Nia Baiyeroju #1142

Wed, 20 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Most of us think of college as an investment… one that hopefully pays off over decades. And for a lot of people, it does. But with costs skyrocketing, it’s not quite the slam dunk it used to be. So what if you could flip that equation? What if instead of paying for college, college paid you? Our guest today did exactly that. Nia Baiyeroju earned over a million dollars in scholarships and now she’s helping others do the same. She’s here to break down how it works and how you can take advantage of the estimated $100 billion in available funds. We specifically discuss:

Leveraging your unique story
An unlikely social media platform to find scholarships
Casting a wide net and going for smaller opportunities
Losing $20,000 bc of a missing headshot
Sidestepping the headache of filling out applications
The value of internships
Hustling, burnout, and mental health
Importance of stated goals and community
And much more!

Can’t get enough How To Money? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Nia: See what else Nia is up to over on her site and all the socials!
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: Knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Looking to the Stars to Save, High Price to Pay for Financial Advice, & Setting up a Roth for a Minor #1141

Mon, 18 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Kid IRAs: How do I go about setting up a Roth IRA for a minor?

2 - Advisor fees: By my math, most folks are paying closer to 20-25% for financial advice!

3 - Pension credits: Should I spend $50,000 to purchase teacher service credits in order to boost my pension?

4 - US Mobile: I’m considering switching to the new Starlink home internet… good idea?

5 - Rent vs own: Why don’t y’all ever talk about the nightmares associated with renting?!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.

MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Whippersnapper by Two Tides Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Mistaken Starting Salaries, Crypto Mortgages, & Self-Inflicted Inflation #1140

Fri, 15 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Achieving Financial Independence as a Late Starter w/ Bill Yount #1139

Wed, 13 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

The vast majority of HTM listeners are Gen Z and Millennials - people who are starting early and taking the bull by the horns. But that’s not true for everyone in our audience, and it’s certainly not true for the average American. Our guest today didn’t even start thinking about financial independence until age 50. But he made up for lost time in a big way and now he’s helping thousands of other late starters do the same. Bill Yount is an emergency room physician on a mission to help people escape the rat race, live more balanced lives, and reclaim their time. His podcast, Catching Up to FI, is packed with practical wisdom for anyone who feels like they’re late to the game. Today we discuss:

Bill’s personal journey from burnout and debt
Geo-arbitrage and massively downsizing
Debunking the myth that all doctors are rich
Debt payoff or investing when you’re last to the game
Transitioning to retirement and the “One More Year Syndrome”
Emotional aspects of retirement
A general take to living a full and engaging life
And much more!

Can’t get enough How To Money? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Bill: Listen to his podcast, Catching Up To FI with co-host (and friend of the pod) Jackie Cummings Koski!
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: Knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Budgeting for Credit Card Rewards, HELOC for Home Improvements, & Coast FI with Bonds #1138

Mon, 11 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Coast FI: How intentionally should I shift my retirement portfolio to bonds if I’m nearing financial independence?

2 - Credit card bonuses: Does it make much sense for me to budget and track the thousands I receive in rewards?

3 - Trusts: Should we prioritize setting up a trust now that we have a young child?

4 - Rx sunglasses: Where can I get affordable Rx sunglasses that I won’t be afraid to lose?

5 - HELOC: What makes one HELOC better than another?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.

MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Dream Operator by Piedmont Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight – Recycled Rags, Slow Shipping, & Sayonara Spirit (or not...) #1137

Fri, 08 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Bad bunnies (cost money)
Negative car equity
A car loan opportunity cost breakdown
VOO the GOAT
Flipping fleece jackets
Recycled rags
Slow shippers saving
Spending more to live longer
Outliving your money
Babies or bougie
EV sales are up
Sayonara Spirit (or not… Spirit 2.0 -> LetsBuySpiritAir.com)

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building Wealth When Markets Get Messy w/ Ben Carlson #1136

Wed, 06 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Shark attacks, plane crashes, and lightning strikes… these are the dramatic and headline-grabbing events that are terrifying but incredibly rare. The odds you’ll ever experience those unfortunate events are tiny, so is it technically risky? Meanwhile, something as ordinary as driving to work should be considered more often since in the US, there are 6 million car accidents a year! When you start looking closely, risk and reward show up everywhere in our lives. And for investors especially, understanding the REAL risks we face, not the ones that dominate headlines, is essential to building a strategy that truly works. Our guest today has made it his mission to bring common sense back to finance. Ben Carlson is the Director of Institutional Asset Management at Ritholtz Wealth Management, where he focuses on managing portfolios for institutions and individuals. He is the creator of the widely read blog A Wealth of Common Sense and the author of several books on investing, including his new release, Risk and Reward. Today we discuss:

Over-indexing on existential risk vs personal risk
“When do you need your money?”
Stress testing your investments
International’s spot in a portfolio
Timing the AI “bubble”
Role of cash in investments, but also in personal finance
Protecting your wealth from inflation
Bonds for younger investors
Adopting a long term investing mindset
Treating “future you” like a bill
And much more!

Can’t get enough How To Money? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Ben: Check out Ben’s new book, Risk & Reward: How to handle market volatility and build long-term wealth.
Cashback credit cards: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM: Conquering Debt-Fuled Lifestyle Inflation, Investing a Used Car Payment, & Making the Most of a VA Loan #1135

Mon, 04 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Debt-fueled lifestyle inflation: Should I sell a rental property to pay off my 401k loan used to install a pool?

2 - Car financing: Does it make more sense to pay for a new/used car in cash or make payments and invest the difference?

3 - Military service/VA loans: What are the pros and cons of going with a VA loan for a new home we’d like to purchase?

4 - 403b: Leave it, transfer it, roll it, or convert it? (or maybe even BOP it?!... Capitalize could be a part of the solution)

5 - 529 plans: How should I sort through all the options available?! (Virginia's direct-sold site is Invest529.com)

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.

MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a DDH Cosmik Debris by Creature Comforts… thanks for donating this one to the pod Nick! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - College Cost Cutting, Predictive Credit Scores, & Work Perk Pruning #1134

Fri, 01 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flights Are Getting Pricier! (here’s how to pay less) w/ Kyle Potter #1133

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Most of our best memories (and stories) come from trips we’ve taken. Some were incredible international adventures while others were ridiculously cheap road trips across different parts of the U.S. It’s been said that travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer, and we’re inclined to agree. Our guest today does too. Kyle Potter is the Executive Editor at Thrifty Traveler, a site dedicated to helping people travel more for less. He’s been to more than 30 countries, and his passion is helping people navigate the confusing world of airlines, travel points, and miles. We don’t even want to know how many miles Kyle’s got sitting around, but we do know he’s willing to spend a few of them on a nice bottle of champagne from time to time. Today we discuss:

How fuel prices, supply & demand, and competition impact ticket prices
Saving the most by being flexible and following the deals
Why you should plan to splurge
Booking a more expensive ticket allows you to save
Researching fares after booking
Packing smarter and traveling lighter to save
How Kyle saves when renting cars
Roundtrip tickets to Dublin for $134
And much more!

Can’t get enough How To Money? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Cashback credit cards: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.

MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Running the Financial Gamut From Squirreling Away an Emergency Fund to Real Estate Investing #1132

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Torn: We’re behind when it comes to investing but it seems silly when we don’t have enough liquid savings… what do we do?!

2 - Pension: How aggressively should I invest my Roth IRA dollars when I have a safe pension to fall back on?

3 - Mortgage recast: What’s a good rule of thumb when I’m considering recasting my mortgage to shrink my monthly payment?

4 - Social Security: Why do y’all always say to delay and wait to draw on Social Security?

5 - Work-provided insurance: Should I pay extra for accidental death and dismemberment insurance or stick with the free option?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.

MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Comeback Sauce by Creature Comforts and Edmund’s Oast… thanks for donating this one to the pod Nick! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Allbirds AI Audacity, 529 Flexibility, & Horrific HELOCs #1131

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

$23 apples
Allbirds AI audacity
Returns that are too good to be true
One more year syndrome
ALTs in 401ks
Boycotting college savings
529 flexibility
Horrible HELOCs
Preparing for property taxes increases (check out our review of Ownwell to automatically save)
Gen Z meets credit cards
WSJ finally understanding the ‘craft beer equivalent’
BNPL at Coachella
The annoyance economy

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Real Estate's Ticking Time Bomb w/ Bigger Pockets' Dave Meyer #1130

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

The housing market is currently at a massive crossroads, and frankly, the old rules don't seem to apply anymore. We’re seeing a landscape of shifting interest rates, a potential reset in supply, and a level of volatility we haven't seen in decades. That’s exactly why we're going to hear from Dave Meyer - the Chief Investment Officer at BiggerPockets and a grounding voice in real estate data. We’re going to dig into the forces shaping the market right now in 2026, and then zoom out to look at the bigger trends that could influence how we buy homes in the years ahead... both as individuals and as investors. Today we discuss:

Defining “The Great Stall”
More analysis needed before purchasing a home
Factors leading to reduced housing demand
The impact of interest rates
Adjustable rate mortgages gaining in popularity
How investors should approach real estate today
Strategies for getting a 10% discount
Recency bias on homeowners and investors
Rising vacancy
House hacking
And much more!

Can’t get enough How To Money? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Dave: More housing talk on The Real Estate Podcast and On the Market and Dave’s over on Insta too.
Cashback credit cards: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Set for Life w/ Trump Accounts, Cash vs a Car Loan, & Vetting a Financial Advisor #1129

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Financial advisors: What’s a good price for a financial advisor and is it worth the cost?

2 - Paying for a minivan: Should I pay cash or take the 1.9% loan they’re offering?

3 - Set for life: Why aren’t y’all talking about the Trump accounts to supercharge your kids retirement accounts?

4 - eSIM: Is this the best option for travel abroad and where should I get one?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Satisfied by Piedmont Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Frustrating Fees, Degree Doubts, & Upper-Middle Class Ascendancy #1128

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can Millennials Count on Social Security? w/ Mike Piper #1127

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Let's talk about Social Security. More than music, clothing, or even political views, Social Security might be the single biggest generational fault line in America right now. Boomers are thrilled to finally be collecting on a promise decades in the making while Millennials and Gen Z are quietly wondering if there'll be anything left by the time we get there. And honestly? That concern isn't crazy! Social Security almost certainly isn't going away entirely, but it's probably not going to look exactly the same as it does today either. Mike Piper, CPA and Social Security expert, joins the show today to explore the future of Social Security, optimal claiming strategies, and how to plan for retirement amid uncertain benefits. Specifically covered:

What happens when the trust fund is gone?!
Downsides of overly conservative financial plans
Claiming strategies when we’re living longer
Adjusting plans after a health diagnosis
The Open Social Security strategy calculator
Taking opportunity cost into account
Early retirement considerations
Common mistakes with DIY investors
… and plenty more!

Can’t get enough How To Money? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Mike Piper: Head over to Mike’s site, Oblivious Investor for his latest writings and Open Social Security for his free open-source strategy calculator.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: Knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Free Fidelity Funds, Credit Card Maxxing, & Debating a PTO Cash-Out #1126

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Free Fidelity Funds: Are they the “cheap” option or a great way to get wealthy?!

2 - 3% Cashback: Will paying for a Robinhood Gold membership allow me to get my hands on the Gold credit card?

3 - Rising Insurance Premiums: What’s the deal with opting for higher deductibles for lower premiums?

4 - Social (in)Security: Why don’t lawmakers raise the income cap in order to help keep the trust fund solvent?

5 - PTO Cash-Out: Should I cash-out my paid time off to pay off our house sooner, or actually kick back a little more?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Soft Static by Inner Voice! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Inflating the 25x Rule, Online Car Refinancing, & Affordable ADUs (Bestie Ep) #1125

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How should I account for inflation when using the 25x rule to forecast my retirement?

2 - Are sites like RateGenius and Autopay legit places to refinance my car?

3 - I have the cash on hand to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), but should I use a construction loan instead?

4 - Should I stick $6,500 into a Roth IRA, a Health Savings Account, or a 457b?

5 - Listener win: reaching out directly to a company resulted in cash in my mailbox!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Blueprint to Financial Wholeness w/ Tiffany Aliche #1124

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

“The Budgetnista” needs no introduction, but here’s a quick one anyways: Tiffany Aliche has helped millions of people change the trajectory of their finances through her books, courses, and podcasts. What I especially love about Tiffany is that she’s a teacher at heart which is something shaped by a decade in the classroom and a master’s degree in education. Her passion for helping people truly thrive with money is contagious. It’s been 7 years since we’ve had Tiffany on the podcast so listen as we discuss a range of topics from practical approaches to budgeting, to dealing with financial shame and anxiety.

Creative, age appropriate ways to teach young kids about money
Financial choices have consequences, good or bad
Shame shields solutions
Your money will never do more than what your mindset will allow
Budgets exist to say “Yes…”
Knowing your noodle budget
Financial wholeness
Real luxury is living without financial worry
Money anxiety when you have enough
… and additional topics!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

The Budgetnista: Head to GetGoodWithMoney.com to check out Tiffany’s book!
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: Knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - 4 Hours to Dispute $3.16, All-In on the S&P 500, and Hitting Coast FIRE #1123

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Coast FIRE: How are we doing based on how much we’ve got in our state retirement accounts?

2 - Savings Bonds: What do I do with these 30 year old savings bonds that I was gifted back in the 90s!?

3 - Frugal or Cheap: Is it worth spending 4 hours disputing a $3.60 incorrect charge on a medical bill?

4 - S&P 500: After recently wising up and switching to fully invest in the S&P, how do I eventually rebalance before retirement?

5 - Appliance Land: Refrigerator died so what should we keep in mind as we buy our new one?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Coast FI: Not FIRE, But Not Retirement. Something in Between.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Blonde Fat Ale (CORRECTION: Fatale… I’m guessing bc of the ABV? But it really looks like Fat Ale on the can) by Backpocket Brewing – thanks Clint for sending this one along to us! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Stellar Staycations, Devilish Destination Fees, & Pay Cut Gut Punch #1122

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Capitalism for ALL: Making the System Work for Everyone w/ John Hope Bryant #1121

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

You might expect someone who experienced homelessness as a kid to grow up angry at the financial system. Instead, John Hope Bryant set out to understand it and help more people succeed within it. Our guest today believes financial literacy isn’t just helpful but foundational to economic opportunity and even human dignity. John is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE, one of the nation’s leading organizations focused on financial literacy, credit access, and economic empowerment. Today, we’re talking about his personal story, economic mobility, entrepreneurship, and what it really takes to build a financial system that works for everyone. We cover:

The ‘third reconstruction’
Doing well and doing good
Improving over burning our current system
How our economy is driven by consumer spending
AI upskilling and its impact on jobs
Capitalism isn’t a blue vs red political choice
Ladders of economic mobility
Incentivizing corporations to help those in need
The ‘American bet’ and what he thinks will give you a good shot at success
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

John Hope Bryant: Check out Operation Hope, John’s non-profit that works to expand economic opportunity via free enterprise, as well as his latest book, Capitalism For All: Inclusive Economics and the Future-Proofing of America.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: Knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Marriage Goals Over Investing, SS Survivor Benefits at Age 30, & Best Cars for New Mamas #1120

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Marriage goals: Now that we have more cash coming in, should we invest more or have a wedding?

2 - Skipping life insurance: Why shouldn’t I just forego term life if I can claim social security survivor benefits?

3 - DCFSA: Is it legal for my partner to claim our new daughter in order to contribute more to a dependent care flexible spending account?

4 - New cars: First-time mama asking what the best rides are with a baby in tow?

5 - $100,000: What should we do with an inheritance if we have a serious medical condition but also have investing goals?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Wonder Struck by Singlespeed Brewing – thanks Clint for sending this one along to us! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Long Airport Lines, Rent In Installments, & Plasma Payday! #1119

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why Money Decisions Feel Rigged w/ John Campbell #1118

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

This show exists to help you make smart decisions with your money. But if we’re being honest, How To Money might not be as necessary if the financial system weren’t so confusing in the first place. For a lot of people, navigating modern money realities feels like swimming in shark-infested waters with high stakes, unclear rules, and the potential for costly mistakes at every turn. Our guest today is Professor John Campbell, author of the book Fixed: Why Personal Finance is Broken and How to Make It Work for Everyone. John is an economics professor at Harvard, who believes the financial system has a responsibility to serve ordinary people with products they can understand, afford, and safely use. Today, we’re talking about what’s broken in personal finance and what real solutions could look like. We specifically discuss:

Disparities in financial products
Complexity in personal finance
Problematic financial products
Human behavior when it comes to money decisions
Dangers of loyalty
Limitations of individual responsibility
What a rebuilt financial system could look like
Balancing protection and freedom
… and additional topics!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

John Campbell: Be sure and check out John’s new book, Fixed.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: Knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Mag-7-Nondiversification-Risk, Cutting Up 13 Credit Cards, & Best Tax Refund Opportunities #1117

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - International investing: Should I look outside of the US if I’m concerned about “Mag-7-nondiversification” in the S&P?

2 - Grunt work: Is it frugal or cheap to work for beer at my local craft brewery? PLUS a healthcare question…

3 - 13 credit cards: As we eliminate our credit card debt should I close my cards or keep them around?

4 - Cell service: Where to go for the most affordable home internet and cell service?

5 - Tax refund: What’s the best use of a $2,000 refund that I’m expecting to receive?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Fire, Skulls, and Money by Toppling Goliath – thanks Clint for sending this one along to us! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS: Stop Doing So Much w/ Justin Peters of FI Minded Podcast

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Thanks to Justin for having Joel on his show, FI Minded!

---

The FI community is incredibly good at effort, optimization, and doing hard things for a long time. But somewhere along the way, many of us forget how to stop. Even after gaining more control over our time, we fill it back up with projects, commitments, and expectations, leaving us busy, tired, and quietly stretched thin.

Joel Larsgaard shares what it looked like to recognize that “doing it all” was no longer sustainable, even when the work was meaningful. After front-loading years of effort through saving, investing, and building How to Money, Joel began intentionally pulling back: working fewer hours, prioritizing family and health, and even taking a six-week sabbatical. This conversation explores why doing less isn’t laziness, but a necessary evolution after years of striving.

You’ll hear how financial independence can be used as a tool for time, not just wealth, along with practical ways to say no, resist constant expansion, and create space without losing ambition. If you’ve reached a point where more effort isn’t improving your life the way it used to, this episode offers a healthier path forward - one built on balance, presence, and intentional choices.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Warflation, Attractive ARMs, & Drone Home Assessments #1116

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Knowing Your Rights & Crushing Medical Bills w/ Jared Walker #1115

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Every year, patients are billed and stuck with $14 billion in medical debt that should be wiped out under existing hospital financial assistance rules. This debt isn’t inevitable, it’s unnecessary! Given the fact that medical debt is the number one cause of bankruptcy and a huge source of stress for families, is it a step too far to say that there is a medical debt crisis in America? We don’t think so and our guest today is doing something about it. Jared Walker is the founder of DollarFor, an organization helping people crush hospital bills they don’t legally owe. Since 2012, DollarFor has helped eliminate more than $125 million in medical debt nationwide. Some of the topics covered today:

The unnecessary strain of medical bills that many are not obligated to pay
Simply letting others know about “charity care” could drastically help their situation
Taking your time to negotiate bc medical bills don’t impact your credit score for a year
Hospitals often do not inform patients about available financial assistance programs
Medical debt impacting personal possibilities and economic progress
Avoiding products like Care Credit which sound nice but are just credit cards in disguise
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Dollar For: You must check out the resources and tools at DollarFor.org if you are staring down a medical bill because there’s a good chance you can get it waived! Health Care Bluebook was also mentioned but be sure and look into Jared’s organization.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Deploying Cash to Recast or Invest, Free $ in Trump Accounts, & David Ramsey Falling Short #1114

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Mortgage recast: Should we take a windfall and recast our mortgage or use the lump sum to invest?

2 - Trump accounts: Where should 530a accounts land among the Money Gears… high or low priority?

3 - Thin credit: What should I do since I was denied a credit card due to a thin file?

4 - Used cars: Is buying a car from a private seller the best option and where’s the best place to look?

5 - Debt relief: So it turns out the company I signed up with for debt relief might be a scam, what should I do?!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Wavelength by Equilibrium Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - AI Money Impacts, Side Hustle Salad Days, & Sullen Savers #1113

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are Teachers Doomed to a Broke Retirement? w/ Shaun Morgan #1112

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Joel married into a family of teachers. His father-in-law has spent nearly 40 years in the classroom, his mother-in-law has taught for 30, and his brother-in-law is an outstanding Spanish teacher. While it’s clear that every one of them truly loves their work, we also know that passion alone doesn’t pay the bills. Teaching requires some real sacrifice, especially in today’s economy. And while no one enters the profession expecting to get rich, we believe that shouldn't mean teachers are destined for a life of financial stress or a mediocre retirement. In fact, our guest today argues that those assumptions are flat-out wrong. While educators face unique financial hurdles, they also have powerful, underused advantages. When those tools are understood, retiring comfortably isn't just a dream - it’s a reality. Shaun Morgan is a full-time teacher who is just as passionate about teaching personal finance to his fellow educators as he is about his work in the classroom. Some of the topics covered in this episode:

How teachers can achieve financial independence with the right strategies
Public service loan forgiveness is a significant advantage for teachers
Overcoming the “teacher vow of poverty”
Budgeting on teacher pay cycles
Stop spending on classroom supplies
Pensions vs defined contributions plans
Understanding 403b and 457b plans
The role of side hustles
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Teacher Money Show: If you’re an educator, look for the Teacher Money Show wherever you listen to podcasts.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Debating a Raise vs WFH Flexibility, Investing in Nvidia, & Digital Hygiene Frugal or Cheap #1111

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Raise vs lifestyle: Should I take a 50% pay increase or maintain the flexibility of working from home?

2 - Nvidia: How do I go about rebalancing my portfolio when I have $800,000 of Nvidia in my brokerage account?

3 - Feedback: Maybe Joel is being cheap not frugal and should you really let a medical bill go to collections?

4 - Insurance: What’s the best way to get an agent to shop multiple different providers to get me the best deal?

5 - Books: My son is 25 years old - what book should I get him to help kick off his personal finance journey?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Delirium Tremens by Huyghe Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Jump at the Pump, Lessening Leverage, & Tapping Too Soon #1110

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bouncing Back from Bankruptcy & Business Failure w/ Phil Sanders #1109

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Joel met Phil halfway through a marathon a few months ago – literally in the middle of the race. It’s funny how life works and after running side by side and chatting for half an hour it was clear he’d only scratched the surface of his story. Phil Sanders is a serial entrepreneur and like most entrepreneurs, not every venture has been a home run. He’s experienced the highs, the lows of bankruptcy, and everything in between when it comes to building businesses. Today, Phil runs a company called Multiply, where he helps business owners sharpen their strategy, build more successful companies, and he’s here today to share some of his hard-earned wisdom. We discuss:

How Phil is balancing current enjoyment with future savings
Profitability should be a primary focus from day one
Overcoming ego and temptation to find identity in work and business
Identifying what you want out of your business
How bankruptcy can lead to personal growth and new opportunities
Vulnerability and overcoming fear to building strength and resilience
Embracing change for professional and personal growth
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Phil: his financial services and strategy business is Multiply, and you can keep up with him on LinkedIn and Instagram
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Housing Rule of Thumb, Axing a Boat Payments, & Making Bank on the World Cup #1108

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Housing costs: What’s a good rule of thumb to stick with to help me keep my mortgage payment in check?

2 - 401k rollover: Can you share the penalties and benefits of a retirement account rollover?

3 - Boat payment: How much should I pull out of my savings to finally get rid of my boat loan?

4 - World Cup: How do I ensure that I make the most money and avoid any pitfalls when renting my place for the World Cup this summer?

5 - Down payment: My down payment is in stocks but I might be buying a house next month… what do I do?!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

401k rollovers: Capitalize is the site we discussed where you can easily roll over an old 401k for free- don’t let your retirement dollars languish with an inferior provider!
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Harpeth by Living Waters! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Tariff Turmoil, Winning So Much, & Border-Hopping for Bargains #1107

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Prenups… are for lovers according to Aaron Thomas!
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Die with Zero w/ Bill Perkins #1106

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Most money advice is a broken record: save more, invest early, and wait for freedom. But what if the real risk isn't running out of money but instead is running out of time? In this episode, we’re challenging the "accumulation at all costs" mindset with Bill Perkins, author of the cult classic Die With Zero. It turns out that a healthy money relationship isn’t just about building wealth but it’s also about intentional spending. Bill argues that time is the most precious asset we have, and that waiting too long to enjoy it can be a costly mistake because we don’t want to reach the finish line with a full bank account and a lifetime of missed opportunities! We discuss how:

Time is the most precious asset we have
Travel makes you a richer person
Your health impacts your wealth
Timing your life experiences
Memory dividends are inflation protected fulfillment
Delayed gratification as a form of prison
His concept of time buckets
Life is full of risk and we have to decide what's worth it
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Bill Perkins: Check out the book yourself: Die With Zero, be sure to not follow (Bill’s own recommendation) on Insta or X, and more resources can be found at the site for the book as well.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - High Net Worth but still Paycheck to Paycheck, Better Investing for Freelancers, & the Necessity of Amazon Prime #1105

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Student loans: what can I do to avoid being in student loans for the rest of my life?!

2 - Lower income, higher net worth: should I be nervous that our monthly spending is more than what we’re bringing in?

3 - Self employed: if I would like to save more should I invest more dollars into my brokerage account or is there a better option?

4 - Amazon: can I still use my Fire TV if I cancel my Amazon Prime membership?

5 - Small business: what are the best business savings accounts available today?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Porter by Incendiary Brewing - a huge thanks to Brandon for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - 401k Mullets, Crappy Coffee, & Bitcoin Bashing #1104

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why Being “Good With Money” Still Feels So Hard w/ Shannah Game #1103

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

How often do you stop to consider that your hormones might be the ones clicking "Add to Cart"? We like to pretend money is just logic and spreadsheets, but let’s be real: it’s emotional, it’s messy, and it’s never just about the numbers. If you’re tired of carrying the weight of old financial mistakes or wondering why you’re stuck in the same self-sabotaging loops, this episode is your manual for a reset. Today, we’re joined by Shannah Game, a CFP and Money Therapist who bridges the gap between your brain and your bank account. Get ready to ditch the shame, kill the stress, and finally build a relationship with money that actually feels good. Today we discuss:

How even successful folks feel stressed about their money
Importance of communication with your parter
Understanding and enjoying the financial journey in addition to goals
Identifying ‘enough’
Recognizing the ways you’re crushing it
Financial growth accompanied by emotional growth
Impact of your finances on your overall well-being
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Shannah: Find everything “Shannah” at her site, HeyShannah.com, including her book Unraveling Your Relationship With Money.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: Knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Student Loans in Administrative Forbearance, Intentionally Entering into Collections, and Financial Infidelity #1102

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Collections: Is waiting for my unexpected medical bill to head to collections a good or great strategy?

2 - Student loans: What should I do while my student loans are in administrative forbearance?

3 - HSA: Will I be able to reimburse myself for kid medical expenses off in the future when they have their own insurance?

4 - Preggo: After Money Gear 7, what should be our next top priority since we’re now expecting a baby this summer?

5 - Infidelity: What do I do about the secret debt my wife racked up over the holidays?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Vienna Lager by Incendiary Brewing - a huge thanks to Brandon for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Stealthy Skimpflation, Janky Job Markets, & Day-Trading Doris #1101

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit score: No shortcuts but actual ways to boost your credit score.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talk About Money Without Fighting w/ Dr. Sonya Lutter #1100

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Money fights are one of the most common, and most damaging, sources of tension in a relationship. Whether it’s spending, debt, or mismatched financial goals, those arguments can quietly erode trust and connection over time. But here’s the good news: money doesn’t have to be the thing that drives couples apart. When partners develop healthy financial habits and learn how to communicate about money, it can actually strengthen their relationship. Which is why we’re excited to welcome Dr. Sonya Lutter to the show today. She’s both a marriage therapist and a financial planner, and she leads the Financial Health & Wellness program at Texas Tech. She brings a rare, research-backed perspective on how couples can keep money from becoming a stumbling block and instead make it a source of teamwork. Today we discuss:

How financial therapy combines finance and emotional support
Perception of financial wellness often differs from reality
Financial stress impacts decision-making abilities
Biological responses to stress affect financial decisions
Regular financial conversations can prevent conflicts
The most common relational dynamic that leads to money fights
How financial infidelity can be as damaging as sexual infidelity
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Sonya: All things Sonya over at her website, SonyaLutter.com
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – ADU vs iBonds, Timing a Silver Sale, and HELOC Unlocking Landlord Status #1099

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

1 - iBonds: What is the actual rate that I’m earning and should I dump them to fund an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)?

2 - Trusts: Should I implement a trust in order to protect my sizeable investments in my taxable brokerage account?

3 - Roth conversion: Do I need to let my Roth conversion sit for 5 years before I’m able to tap it?

4 - Precious metals: Is now the time to sell the silver I invested in years ago?

5 - Down payments: To what extent is it illegal to tap a HELOC to fund my next home purchase?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Cerberus Nocturne Vanilla Porter by Incendiary Brewing - a huge thanks to Brandon for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - ‘The Lipstick Effect’, Cheap Chinese EVs, & DIY Solar #1098

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Case for Frugal Hedonism w/ Annie Raser-Rowland #1097

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Jumbo shrimp. Open secret. Bittersweet. We call these oxymorons - ideas that shouldn't work together, yet somehow do. Most people put 'frugality' and 'hedonism' in that same category, assuming you can't have a blast while saving a buck. But our guest today, Annie Raser-Rowland, is here to shatter that myth. An Australian horticulturalist and author, Annie argues that true pleasure isn't bought, instead it’s found in the more sensual and free moments we overlook when we're too busy working to pay for things we don't need. Today, we’re exploring how to live an excellent, joy-filled life that doesn't require a massive income or a single dreaded coupon. We specifically touch on:

Spending a quarter of the typical person
Why Annie believes that experiences provide more joy than material possessions
How community and interdependence enrich our lives
Setting long-term goals can motivate frugal habits
Literary figures and role models can inspire us to live more fulfilling lives
Advertising influences our spending habits negatively
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Annie: The Art of Frugal Hedonism is the book, and learn more about Annie and what she’s up to at her site.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Money Gears Mixup, Stewarding an Inheritance, & Turning to Gold! #1096

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Money Gears: I’m confused… why do you recommend getting a 401k match before paying off high interest credit card debt?

2 - Cash windfall: What should I do with the rest of my inheritance?

3 - 403b: Should I opt for the new Roth version, stick with the traditional, or maybe it’s possible to do both?

4 - Greenland: With all the political upheaval we’re seeing, should shift all my investments to gold?

5 - Credit report: Where should I go to get my actual free credit report?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Bourbon Barrel Aged Wee Heavy w/Coconut Maple and Macaroons by Incendiary Brewing - a huge thanks to Brandon for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Richer Refunds, Best Costco Buys, & $3 Dinners (don’t have to be this sad!) #1095

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Student Loan Chaos Explained w/ Stanley Tate #1094

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

The whiplash student loan borrowers have experienced over the past few years has been staggering. Payments paused, forgiveness promised, forgiveness blocked, repayment systems rewritten, and now wage garnishment is back on the table for some folks. It’s no wonder navigating student loans has become a specialized skill. Few people know that landscape better than attorney Stanley Tate. He’s helped hundreds of borrowers get out of default, qualify for forgiveness programs, secure affordable payments, negotiate settlements, stop garnishments, and even discharge student loans in bankruptcy. Through his blog, newsletter, and videos, Tate has offered guidance to countless others. Some of the topics covered today:

How much time borrowers in default have had to address the elephant in the room
Why income-driven repayment plans are crucial for many borrowers
Why private student loans are expected to see a resurgence
Borrowers often misunderstand their repayment options and forgiveness paths
How emotional decisions often overshadow financial reasoning in education funding
The biggest student loan mistake that his clients make
Living life fully is essential, even amidst student loan burdens
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Stanley Tate: Newsletter, tools, and other resources up on his site and he’s got a great YouTube channel as well.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Assets to Boost My Credit Score, Lifestyle Geographic Arbitrage, and Car Loans to get Wealthier #1093

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Credit score: what assets should I focus on in order to boost my credit score?

2 - Geo arbitrage: how should I approach moving to Italy when all of my tax advantaged investing accounts will now be taxed?

3 - Down payment: should I invest my cash that I’d like to put down for my first house?

4 - Car loans: why do you guys recommend paying cash for a car when you can earn more by investing in the stock market?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a NA Safe Sexride by Incendiary Brewing - a huge thanks to Brandon for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Points for Paying your Mortgage, Credit Card Consultants, & AI UBI (to each according to his need!) #1092

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Dry January is still costing you
Background (credit) checks
Garnished student loan wages
Points for paying your mortgage
If the juice is still worth the squeeze
Credit card consultants
Smaller weddings saving money
Paying for guru chatbots (should we launch our own new AI or do traditional one-on-one coaching?)
Hey siri, reduce my medical bill by 80%
AI UBI
Tapping a 401k early
Greenland and the future of investing in US stocks

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Art of Spending w/ Morgan Housel #1091

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Spending money is EASY… it’s the saving and investing that’s hard, right!? Not necessarily. Our guest today isn’t going to judge your spending habits, but he does want to help you learn what’s worth wanting. Morgan Housel wrote what many consider to be the most compelling money book in recent memory, The Psychology of Money. His new book is called The Art of Spending Money and a few of the ideas covered today:

Spending is the ultimate purpose of money
Independence is the most important thing money can buy
Understanding the difference between internal and external benchmarks is crucial
Identity should not be tied to financial metrics
How inconsistent spending habits can lead to happiness
Cultural shifts have changed how we view money and success
Finding purpose beyond money is essential for a fulfilling life
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Combatting Healthcare Premium Hikes, Purchasing Long Term Disability, and WTD with Nine-Figure Wealth #1090

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Nine-figure wealth: what do we do after our company sells for $300 million?!

2 - Healthcare subsidies: are health sharing plans my only other option to keep my healthcare costs down?

3 - Landlord liability: should I really go with the formality of holding each of my properties in it’s own LLC to safeguard my personal assets?

4 - 401k snatch: does it make sense to continue contributing to my 401k after my employer has lowered the match?

5 - Long term disability: when does it make sense and do I need to get a policy in place?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Shift Experimental by Incendiary Brewing - a huge thanks to Brandon for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Credit Card Caps, Free Rent, & Pokemon Investing #1089

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Own Your Time: Build a Life You Control w/ Andy Hill #1088

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

We all get the same 24 hours – but it sure doesn’t always feel that way, does it? Why is it that some people seem to have time for hobbies, meaningful conversations, even a slow cup of coffee, while others are just trying to survive the day on repeat? Today, we’re breaking down what it really takes to build a life that feels enjoyable, sustainable, and manageable… not rushed and reactive. And a crucial part of that equation are smart money decisions and intentional choices about how we spend our time. Our friend Andy Hill is here to share his wisdom. Andy runs Marriage, Kids & Money, and he’s the real deal – someone who has put in the work and built a life guided by values, freedom, and family. Everything he shares today comes from experience, not theory. Some of the topics we get to:

Best reason every for tracking and budgeting
Importance of effective communication with a partner
Cutting expenses shouldn't mean depriving yourself of joy
The debt hatred method focuses on paying off emotionally burdensome debts first
Transitioning to solopreneurship can provide more control over your time
Experimenting with work-life balance can lead to a more fulfilling life
What “FU” money affords you
Life is for living, not just saving for the future
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Andy: Own Your Time is the book, and Marriage, Kids, and Money is the podcast.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Gym Edition Frugal or Cheap, Blaming the Baby for Lifestyle Upgrades, and Dipping into Savings for a Camper #1087

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Camper purchase: should I use my HELOC to replenish my emergency fund that we used to buy a used camper?

2 - Baby wealth: what accounts do I prioritize for my twins future and how should I be thinking about generational wealth?

3 - Expensive gyms: is it frugal or cheap to not tell my gym that I’m still paying the old rates?

4 - Apartment hunting: how should I approach the conversation with my landlord about breaking my lease due to our growing family?

5 - Crypto: is it a good idea to invest in individual stocks and crypto if they’re already represented in my portfolio via an index?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Dulce Muerte by Incendiary Brewing - a huge thanks to Brandon for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Return Rabbits, Double Majoring, and Nihilistic Renters #1086

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spending Life Wisely: Vicki Robin on Money, Meaning, and Time #1085

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

“The quality of your life pretty much exists outside of the realm of money.” That’s a quote from today’s guest and we’re going to spend a good amount of time talking about everything BUT money! Personal finance and handling your money effectively is important of course, but don’t confuse the means to the end, with the end itself. Money is simply a tool, and like the adage about dying with ‘the most toys,’ it’s easy to see how taking the approach of maximizing your wealth accumulation would leave you wanting. Vicki Robin is all about helping folks change their relationship to money. She unknowingly sparked the FIRE movement back in 1992 with her co-author Joe Domniguez when they released the book Your Money or Your Life. We discuss of number of topics in this episode including:

How money is a tool, but not the only one
Consciousness in spending can lower consumption
Community relationships are essential for support
Aging can bring new opportunities and perspectives
Consumer culture often breaks community bonds
Financial independence should include a sense of service
The ‘backpressure’ cause by the fear of death
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Vicki: read her latest writings over on Substack, Coming of Aging. And the book that started it all, Your Money or Your Life.
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Smart Money Guide for 2026 #1084

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

New year, new outlook, and a fresh strategy for your wallet. Welcome to 2026!

In this episode, we’re setting the table for the year ahead. After the unique challenges and "did that really just happen?" moments of 2025, it’s time to stop reacting and start orchestrating your own financial future. We’re stripping away the jargon to talk about what actually matters: building wealth slowly, steadily, and with a craft-beer-level appreciation for the process. To give you a taste of what we’re diving into:

The Money Gears: We’re walking through the specific steps to take your finances from "survival mode" to "total optionality." From why exactly you need $3,045 in the bank to the moment you can finally start crushing some Money Gear 7 goals.
Frugality vs. Deprivation: Why "living small" is actually the secret to living large, and how to make the shift from having to save to wanting to save.
The K-Shaped Reality: We discuss why the "average" economy doesn't exist and how a bare bones budget is going to help keep you afloat.
Our own personal goals for the year, and more!

Whether you’re looking to get your time back, ditch the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle, or finally understand where your money is actually going, this episode is your roadmap for the new year.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed an If Only To Be Thoughtless Once More by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The High Cost of Crappy Credit (Bestie Ep) #1083

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Think back to the last time you lost power at your place. I’m sure it was an inconvenience- it was likely annoying to find yourself walking into a room and reflexively reaching for the light switch, even though the power was out. But the real problem with an outage are the downstream effects it has: food in the fridge spoils, traffic is a nightmare if the stoplights are out, folks even die due to extreme heat or cold. We’re less worried about a power outage and more worried about the mayhem that ensues. And in a similar way we’re less worried about silly credit scores and more worried about the negative impact that a crappy score can have on much of your personal finances. Listen as we discuss our stance on taking out loans, the high cost of neglecting your credit, and steps that you can immediately take in order to mitigate the knock-on effects of crappy credit.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Grapefruit Radler by Halfway Crooks Beer! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Time > Money w/ Ben Miller (Bestie Ep) #1082

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time is easily our most precious resource, but rarely do we pay much attention to what it is that we’re going to spend our minutes and hours, which inevitably turn into weeks and years. And if you completely fail to do this, you end up as the proverbial careerist, looking back at the wasted decades, wishing you would’ve done something differently. And our guest today, Ben Miller, actually did shake things up- he traded a position on Wall Street with Goldman Sachs for a fulfilling life out in Colorado. He chose meaning over money, and he’s on a quest to help others to discover what a fulfilling life is for them with the app he’s developed: ChroniFI. We discuss nerdy board games, what caused Ben to make the pivot out west, finding work/life balance as an entrepreneur, why earning a ton of money is only one half of the equation, how to figure out what to spend your money on, determining whether to spend on ‘convenience’, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

ChroniFi - See how your current purchases impact your future retirement! Ben's app links your time and your money, boiling it down to the steps you need to take in order to achieve financial freedom. And be sure to use our ChroniFi.com/HowToMoney link to get 25% off!
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Apri-Guav Tastee by The Veil! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Work Provided Life Insurance, Compounding Returns with a 401k True-Up, & Selling a Home to an iBuyer (Bestie Ep) #1081

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Home sale: should I sell my house to an iBuyer?

2 - Life insurance: is my work provided life insurance enough or should I go ahead and get an affordable policy while I’m young?

3 - Retirement: my 401k has a ‘true-up’ feature but does investing just once, at the end of the year, stymie compounding returns?

4 - Investment property: does it make sense to build a brand new house and then rent it out as an investment property?

5 - Pod talk: how can I grow my podcast- how did y’all grow your podcast audience?!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Chubby Unicorn by Common Space! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Holiday Special: 2025 Lessons, Risky Bets, and an Alaska Surprise (BONUS EP)

Sat, 27 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

A big thanks to our friend Joe Saul-Sehy for inviting us to join an episode of Stacking Benjamins – we had a blast, and we think you'll enjoy this convo as well!

–

It's the most wonderful time of the year in the basement, and we're kicking off the holiday season with our biggest, most packed episode yet.

Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug welcome Joel Larsgaard and Matt Altmix from the How to Money podcast for a year-end celebration of everything that mattered in money during 2025. Think of this as the holiday parade of personal finance episodes. There's a lot happening, it's all connected, and you'll want to stick around for the whole thing.

First up, Joel and Matt join the crew for their Top 5 Lessons from the Events of 2025. From AI's real impact on everyday work to market surprises nobody saw coming, this segment unpacks the money moments that actually changed how we think about our finances. These aren't just headlines rehashed. They're the insights that'll help you make smarter moves in 2026.

Then the show shifts to a fascinating trend everyone's noticing but nobody's quite figured out yet. Why is everyone suddenly betting on everything? Prediction markets are exploding, retail investors are taking bigger risks, and the line between investing and gambling feels blurrier than ever. Joe, OG, Joel, and Matt dig into what's driving this shift, whether it's brilliant or reckless, and how to think about risk when it seems like the whole world just discovered the casino.

But wait, there's more. Nick from Alaska calls in with a real-world budgeting challenge that proves even the most prepared Stackers face seasonal money surprises. His situation sparks the kind of practical, helpful conversation this show does best.

And because this is a holiday kickoff episode, we're wrapping with big news about the Stacking Benjamins Vault, the new tool designed to help you organize and protect your most important financial documents without the headache.

–

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who Wants to Literally Be a Millionaire? (Bestie Ep) #1080

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Sherlock Holmes is a literary character we’re all familiar with who has the uncanny ability to solve any mystery he comes across. And one of the things that sets the British detective apart from others is his use of inductive reasoning to solve his cases. He begins with observations which then propel him in his search for the truth. Deductive reasoning, on the other hand, begins with a hypothesis and then uses the facts in order to confirm a theory. And so as we’re trying to figure out how wealthy we need to be, we think that taking the Holmsian approach is most helpful. Rather than picking a nice round number out of thin air like $1 million, we’re doing some observing and we’re asking some questions! Because regardless of how much money you already have set aside for retirement, you could be missing the mark if you’re only reading the headline numbers reported by the ‘experts’. Today’s episode should help you to realize you probably don’t need as much money as you think, you’ll gain a healthier view of work vs retirement, and we’ll go over some practical calculations to help you decide how much money you’ll *literally* need.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Double Clutch Nitro Oatmeal Stout by Gruner Brothers- thanks for donating this one to the show Katie! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Families Fly Free w/ Lyn Mettler (Bestie Ep) #1079

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Traveling for free sounds like a lofty goal for most folks. Sure if you’re single or if you’re a DINK couple- but there’s no way you can pull that off with an entire family in tow! Well, it’s actually easier than you think and our guest, Lyn Mettler, is here to explain how. Lyn is a long-time travel journalist who has been featured on the Today Show and US News & World Report. And she practices what she preaches as she and her family travel and fly, for free, about six times every single year! We cover her simple approach, what three credit cards to focus on in order to give you the most bang for your buck, a smart approach to the Southwest Companion Pass, getting into Disney on the cheap, how to use points to erase travel expenses, and plenty more travel tips on today’s episode.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Lyn: You can learn every detail there is to know about scoring free airfare over at Lyn's site Families Fly Free. And check out her podcast while you're at it!
Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

During this episode we enjoyed a Che Si Dice by Halfway Crooks! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Caring for Parents, Dreaming of Partial Retirement, and Paying Extra on the Mortgage #1078

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Let’s kick off the week with some fresh listener questions we have lined up for you! And don't just stand on the sidelines- if you have a question you’d like us to answer, toss your voice memo our way. It only takes about 90 seconds to record and you can find a step by step guide over at HowToMoney.com/ask . Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!

1 - Caring for parents: how do I financially prepare to take care of my parents as they enter their later years?

2 - Partial retirement: would contributing to a Roth or traditional IRA allow me to pay less taxes and retire earlier?

3 - Charitable giving: can I use a donor advised fund to strategically give to my local church, even if they don’t accept electronic payments?

4 - Extra mortgage payments: should I stop making extra payments on our house and instead invest those dollars?

5 - Old 401k: what should I do with my old 401k after accepting a new job?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

During this episode we enjoyed a Polotmavý by von Trapp Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Deceptive Dollar Stores, Frustrated Flippers, & Betting Your Credit Card Balance #1077

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
MG7: and maybe you’re well on your way to financial independence but you’re looking for some financial reassurance, that’s when heading over to HowToMoney.com/Advisor and getting matched with a highly vetted financial advisor makes sense.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Becoming a Rational Investor w/ Ben Felix #1076

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Tall fellas UNITE! Joel has to contend with talking with someone who is taller than him for a change, but that’s mostly besides the point (unless tall guys actually invest differently than the rest of the population!?). We’re joined by Ben Felix – one of the clearest voices in finance and investing who is co-host of the Rational Reminder podcast and also runs a killer YouTube channel full of thoughtful, evidence-based investing advice. Ben is a CFA, CFP, the Chief Investment Officer at PWL Capital and more importantly, he helps regular folks understand the why behind their investing decisions. We discuss topics like:

The biggest reason to invest rather than save
Savings rates based on individual circumstances
How more financial advisors are shifting to behavioral coaching
The only free lunch in invested
Why target date funds aren’t optimal
What DIY investors need to look out for
And plenty of other topics!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Check out Ben’s podcast over on Youtube along with his helpful channel where he posts on investing, financial decision-making, and living a good life.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Double Dipping Expense Ratios, Wealth Building with High Deductibles, and when 50 Year Mortgages Make Sense #1075

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Target date fund: is my brokerage double dipping expense ratios if my target date fund has other funds as well?

2 - High deductible healthcare plan: help me to determine whether or not my HDHP makes sense!

3 - Promissory note: did I make a massive mistake in selling my house with a promissory note?

4 - Pro bono: what certifications should I get if I’d like to help others with their finances for free?

5 - 50 year mortgage: “change my mind” that a 50 year mortgage isn’t a great option for folks to build wealth with homeownership!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Contrast, which is a collaboration between Burial and Allagash! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Political $ Planning, Free Electricity, & Cash is Cringe (plus Instacart Iniquity, Advent Calendars, more...) #1074

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Credit card perks: Check out our favorite credit cards that we use to maximize rewards and optimize our spending.
Money Gears: knowing what to do with your money is crucial to your personal finance journey.
Newsletter: Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Other money nerds: Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jade Warshaw on Escaping the Debt Trap and Rewriting Your Story #1073

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In Greek mythology, Atlas holds the heavens on his shoulders as a punishment from Zeus. And every time you see an image of Atlas, remember the hundreds of millions of Americans who are perpetually burdened by debt. To many of those consumers, the weight of credit cards, personal loans, and car loans feels like an eternal struggle… the new normal with no end in sight. But like our guest today, you can reject that fate and rewrite your story. Jade Warshaw paid off almost half a million dollars in consumer debt over the better half of a decade. Now she uses her hard-earned knowledge to teach others how to do the same. She’s a Ramsey personality and is the author of the new book ‘What No One Tells You About Money’ which explores the emotional side of personal finances. We dive into that and also cover:

Facing deep emotional struggles when dealing with debt
Financial discussions should include emotional health
Debt can strain personal relationships significantly
Understanding money involves more than just numbers
Feeling isolated in financial struggles
Role of debt in growing a family
Good debt vs bad debt
Jade’s final piece of advice
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Jade’s new book, out January 6th: What No One Tells You About Money

Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X.

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Newlywed Downpayment Debate, Good Car Loans, and Failing to Max Retirement Account #1072

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Downpayment debate: should we put down more than 20% if we have extra money in our investment accounts?

2 - Car loan: is it worth signing up for a car loan with the dealership if it means I snag a four-figure discount?

3 - Special needs: how do I support my son with Down Syndrome while also preparing for retirement some day?

4 - Annuities: are annuities the ticket as a safe alternative investment?

5 - Maxing accounts: how discouraged should I be that I’m no longer able to max my HSA and Roth IRA?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Our episode with the Shefska’s on how to pay as little as possible for your new car!
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed A Measured Procession of Veracity by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - AI Toys, Homeowners Held Hostage, & Impoverished Americans

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

BTW, here is that site that allows you to donate gift cards for good.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gen Z vs. The Old Money Rules w/ Lillian Zhang #1070

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Let’s talk about money and “the youths” today! While a lot of personal finance advice is evergreen and helpful to folks of all ages, it’s also important to reach people where they are and in the way they like to consume information. As middle-aged dads, we hope to stay relevant, but we don’t have the same street cred as our guest today. We’re joined by Lillian Zhang who, as a first generation born American, carved her own path by figuring out the job search, learning how money works, and building wealth from scratch. She earned a degree from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and now works in Silicon Valley by day while writing and publishing her book: The New Money Rules. Today we discuss:

Gen Z feeling pressure to catch up with peers financially
Social media influencing Gen Z's perception of wealth
Riskier investments are appealing to younger generations
Traditional 'get rich slowly' strategies are less popular among Gen Z
Financial literacy is crucial for informed investing
Having money, practicing personal finance early on to cement concepts like tradeoffs
… and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Lillian’s new book: The New Money Rules, but you can also keep up with her on Insta, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Mortgage Payoff Loophole, DAFs to Maximize Tax Deductions, and Legally Evading a Medical Bill #1069

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Accelerated Mortgage Payoff - is velocity banking a smart way to quickly pay off my mortgage?

2 - Donor Advised Funds - do I get to deduct more from my taxes if my donor advised contribution grows after investing?

3 - Retirement Investing - am I better off contributing to my Roth IRA or my employee sponsored 457b?

4 - Medical Bills - should I take an offer for a medical bill discount by paying before the end of the year, or is there a better option?

5 - Life Insurance - I already have rental properties and a 401k that my baby could inherit so do I also need life insurance?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

We talked about Donor Advised Funds in depth with Adam Nash.

If you’re looking for the best place to open a donor advised fund then look no further than Joel’s review of Daffy.

A great physical fitness newsletter by friend of the pod, Drew: Move To Improve
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Automatic IPA by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight: Leftover Turkey Edition! #1068

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

We’re taking a moment to slow down and reflect on what HTM listeners are truly grateful for during this busy holiday season. And yes… doing this on Black Friday is intentional. Instead of swapping stories about the hottest deals, we’re choosing to hit pause on consumption and appreciate what we already have.

We also want to connect the dots between the financial sacrifices and smart money moves you’ve made and the deeper parts of life they impact, like family, time, peace, and purpose. Money matters, but what matters more is what it makes possible. So ask yourself:

What does life feel like now that you’re not buried in credit card debt?
Has building an emergency fund reduced your stress in a meaningful way?
Does having a retirement investing plan give you more freedom to be present with your kids?
Does saying “no” to a high-pressure promotion feel right now that you’re within reach of coast FIRE?

These are the reflections we hope you’ll sit with today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The World Is Getting Better w/ Marian Tupy #1067

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Though it seems like the world is in shambles, humanity has progressed quite impressively when you look at virtually any length of history. Our modern society has produced a slew of nice things that would have been hard to fathom 50 years ago, much less 250 years ago- smartphones, duct tape, GPS. They’ve all, to greater or lesser degrees, made our lives better and that’s simply looking at consumer goods. Think of other clear markers like infant mortality, literacy rates, longer lifespans and how they all point to incredible progress. But how did those innovations and that abundance come about? Why does 2025 look so radically different in the developed world than 1825? Marian Tupy’s book Superabundance explains it all and demonstrates how far we’ve come in easy-to-understand language. Marian Tupy is a senior fellow at the Cato Institute. He’s also the founder and editor of HumanProgress.org, a site that seeks to evidence these dramatic improvements. Listen as we cover how:

Progress is not guaranteed and can regress under certain conditions
Life expectancy has dramatically increased over the last 200 years
Economic freedom and openness to trade drive prosperity
Nostalgia often overlooks the harsh realities of the past
Environmental concerns can be addressed through innovation and technology
Time prices illustrate the abundance of resources available today
Gratitude for our current circumstances can lead to greater happiness
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Superabundance: The Story of Population Growth, Innovation, and Human Flourishing on an Infinitely Bountiful Planet is the book and HumanProgress.org is the site!
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Filing a Claim for a New Roof, Rebalancing Away from Tech/AI, & Taking Advantage of a Health Reimbursement Arrangement #1066

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Home repair: should I get a new roof based on a roof inspector who says my insurance will cover it for free?

2 - Roth conversion: as an average wage earner who is maxing out my Roth IRA, should I convert my 401k as well?

3 - Tech heavy portfolio: should I rebalance my retirement portfolio away from AI if I think it’s a bubble?

4 - Savings rates: should I ditch Ally for another bank that’s paying a higher rate on their savings account?

5 - Open enrollment: I’ve always gone with my employer provided Health Reimbursement Arrangement, but is the HSA better?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

We referenced a bunch of previous episodes:

Finding financial freedom making less than $40,000 a year with Hope Ware.
Timing a Roth conversion with CFP Cody Garrett.
AI and your investments with Vanguard’s Joe Davis.

I’m not sure who needs to hear this but Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, are the ultimate retirement accounts.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kirkland Signature Vintage Ale 2025 by Deschutes! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Soft Switching, Tariff Turnaround, & Ozempic Face #1065

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Don’t Let Taxes Terrify You w/ Hannah Cole #1064

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

“Taxes for creatives” could have also been the title of this episode, giving the more entrepreneurially minded the boost they need to officially launch a little business they’ve been considering. But for most folks the topic of taxes isn’t comforting, it’s straight up terrifying… even though it shouldn’t be. Today’s guest, Hannah Cole, is on a mission to create fearless folks who launch into the world of deductions, bookkeeping, tracking, tax filing, and all the other terms that strike a little fear in your heart, with full confidence. Her new book, Taxes For Humans, acts as a field manual for self-employed folks to simplify their taxes and take the bull by the horns. Topics covered today:

Taxes can be intimidating, but understanding them is empowering
Creatives often struggle with the business side of their work, including taxes
The IRS is more forgiving than many people think
Receipts, tax forms, and bookkeeping are the key three systems
Deductions are available for ordinary and necessary business expenses
When and how much in quarterly estimates, in order to avoid penalties
A visual guide to tax deductions
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Be sure and check out Hannah’s new book, Taxes For Humans, or just get it on Amazon. And her visual guide to tax deductions is especially cool for folks looking to organize their business expenses, who also hate IRS forms ;)
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Vital Home Reno or Moving Factors, Dropping Credit Without Dinging Your Score, & Student Loan Forgiveness or Payoff #1063

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:45:00 +0000

1 - Home renovation: what factors did Matt consider when deciding to add on to his existing house?

2 - Credit cards: I want to cancel my oldest credit card, but how concerned should I be about dinging my credit score?

3 - Student loans: should I pay off my student loans or wait for forgiveness if I have the cash on hand to eliminate them?

4 - Medical expenses: could I fully subsidize my healthcare costs were I to aggressively invest my HSA dollars?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Converting your primary into an investment property is one of the easiest ways to create some semi-passive income.
I’m not sure who needs to hear this but Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, are the ultimate retirement accounts.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Jeremy’s Changed by Fonta Flora! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Forever Mortgages, Ruining Reward Cards & Free Tax Filing Fail #1062

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Help us dominate the Daffy Voices for Good Campaign!
50 year mortgages
Robinhood getting into the mortgage game
Cash for Christmas
FindHelp.org is a great resource for those in need of food, shelter, transportation and more
Flights not quite as delayed
Expense ratio transparency
Investment nudges by Vanguard
$2,000 tariff rebate checks
Fancy credit cards potentially no longer accepted
RIP Direct File
Avoiding all the scams
Voice authentication via code words

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How AI Will Impact Your Investments w/ Vanguard's Joe Davis #1061

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Everywhere you look, people are talking about AI. Some say it’s going to save the world; others think it might break it. But while the headlines focus on sci-fi futures and big-tech battles, we’re interested in something a little closer to home: what does all of this actually mean for us as everyday, DIY investors – today, and over the next decade? Fortunately, we don’t have to wing it. Vanguard’s global chief economist, Joseph Davis, has been studying the forces shaping our financial future – AI included. And in his new book, Coming Into View, he breaks down the megatrends that are poised to reshape the investing landscape. Today we discuss:

How Vanguard's mission focuses on aligning investor interests with their work
Predictions about lower future returns are based on economic fundamentals
AI's impact on productivity will extend beyond the tech sector
Cost management in investments is crucial for long-term success
Demographics alone do not determine economic growth outcomes
The importance of diversification in investment portfolios remains unchanged
Investors should stress-test their financial goals against potential market scenarios
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

To dig into more of how AI will impact your portfolio, check out Joe’s book: Coming Into View
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Open Enrollment Entanglements, Worthwhile BNPL Scenarios, & Continuing to Investing with Outstanding Debt #1060

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Open enrollment: what factors should I consider when hopping to a more affordable health insurance provider?

2 - Buy now pay later: how much of a discount would have to be offered to make a “pay in 4” worth considering?

3 - Money gears: should I hit pause on investing in order to finally get rid of my credit card debt?

4 - Credit score: would paying down my mortgage early hurt my credit score and my ability to invest in real estate later?

5 - Savings rate: should I include dollars automatically invested into my 401k when calculating my savings rate?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Upside Dawn by Athletic! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Ridiculous Car Refinancing, Occupation Consternation, & Ads Everywhere #1059

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

11 questions to ask yourself, before quitting your job.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Work Less, Live More w/ Juliet Schor #1058

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Nearly 100 years ago, economist John Maynard Keynes predicted that we’d be working 15-hour weeks by now due to gains in productivity and technology. Tim Ferriss claims that you can pretty much do it all in a 4-hour workweek! Neither of those seem plausible but our guest today takes a much more reasonable approach and says that 4-day work weeks are not only feasible but can lighten the load, allowing us to live more life – all while being more productive! Juliet Schor is an economist and professor of sociology at Boston College and is best known for her research on work, consumption, and economic inequality. Some of the topics discussed today include:

How cultural attitudes towards work can hinder progress
Four-day work week can improve productivity and employee satisfaction
Companies are beginning to recognize the benefits of shorter work weeks
People often prioritize work over personal life due to societal pressures
Ways to advocate and push for a more reasonable work week
Navigating a post-growth world requires reevaluating consumption habits
No amount of money can compensate for more work among certain workers
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Be sure and check out Juliet’s book, Four Days A Week: The Life-Changing Solution for Reducing Employee Stress, Improving Well-Being, and Working Smarter
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Spending on a Tax Pro, Frugal Practices for Millionaires, & Ending a Termite Bond #1057

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Tax help: where should I find a tax professional and how much should one cost?

2 - Frugal or cheap: should I continue to reuse ziploc bags if I have millions in the bank?

3 - Revocable trust: does it make sense to update my parents' trust or should they scrap it for a brand new one?

4 - Savings rates: what’s going on with HYSA interest rates?

5 - Termites: is it time to take matters into my own hands or do I just pay to renew the termite warranty?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Learn how you can take on some DIY pest control that will give you professional results at a fraction of the cost. And a Bug-A-Salt gun is fun and actually works- especially on house flies!
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a The Scars on Greedy Palms by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Discount Burnout, Bubble Trouble, & Rejoicing Renters (plus roadkill, gold bars, more...) #1056

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

I’m not sure who needs to hear this but Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, are the ultimate retirement accounts.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DIY or Delegate: the Financial Advisor Conundrum w/ Pam Krueger #1055

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

A financial advisor WON’T magically fix your money problems, but many folks assume that by hiring a professional, they’re well on their way to financial success. Maybe, but maybe not, because a bunch of different factors come into play. And who better to have this discussion with other than award-winning investor advocate and financial educator Pam Krueger. She began her career as a stockbroker before moving into financial media, where she created and co-hosted the PBS series MoneyTrack where her work emphasizes transparency, investor protection, and understanding how advisors are compensated. Pam is also the founder and CEO of Wealthramp, a platform that connects consumers with vetted fiduciary financial advisors and today we discuss:

Determining if you should DIY or delegate
The one silver bullet in everyone’s financial journey
Conflicts of interest and the fiduciary standard
Fee-only advisors, unbiased advice without commissions
Expecting transparency in advisor fees
Paying for “meh” financial advice
Breaking up with an advisor if you’re unhappy
How Wealthramp advisors are vetted and finding the right advisor for you!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Head to HowToMoney.com/advisor if you’re interested in a SOLID financial advisor who will be a great fit for you.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Sinking Funds for BIG Purchases, PTO Advances, & Investing for Early Retirement #1054

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Savings rates: how should I account for a disability payment when calculating my savings rate?

2 - $300,000: if I want to retire early in a couple years, what should I do with a settlement payout?

3 - 401k faux pas: WTD with my 401k that I overcontributed to last year?

4 - New car: how should I save up for a new ride I might buy in 5-6 years?

5 - Credit repair: student loan autodraft got dropped, credit score busted, now pay to get it fixed?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Calculating your savings rate and knowing that single metric can give your finances the boost needed to achieve early retirement.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Presence of Another World by Bissell Brothers! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Moneyless Millionaires, Credit Card Churning & AI Goes E-Commerce #1053

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

I’m not sure who needs to hear this but Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, are the ultimate retirement accounts.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can Love Survive a Budget!? w/ Doug & Heather Boneparth #1052

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Figuring out your money is tough enough if you’re flying solo. Doing it with your partner ramps up the difficulty level because you're throwing in varied money history, habits, and goals. It can create a lot of friction! Our guests today have a lot of great advice for couples looking to do better with their finances and create a ‘team vibe’ with their partner. If you looked up the definition of ‘power couple’ in the dictionary, you just might see a picture of Doug and Heather Boneparth next to it. Doug has built his own successful financial advisor firm while simultaneously tweeting hilarious memes. Heather is a former corporate attorney and director of business affairs for that firm, Bona Fide Wealth. They’ve written the fabulous new book ‘Money Together’ which launches next week on the 28th, and today we discuss:

How understanding individual money histories is crucial for couples
Impact of shame around finances
Balancing individual and shared goals
Creating positive financial vibes
Regular money dates
Investing in one area often requires sacrifices in another
It's important to recognize the contributions beyond monetary income
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

DoMoneyTogether.com is where you can go to learn all about Heather and Doug’s book. ReadTheJointAccount.com is their newsletter and BoneFideWealth.com is their wealth advisory firm.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Medium-Term Investing Conundrums, Naughty Credit Card Behavior, & Vapid Vesting Periods #1051

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Credit card no-nos: after getting a $900 welcome offer should I take advantage of one year of no interest?

2 - HSA: what’s the best way of keeping up with medical expenses so I can invest my HSA funds?

3 - 403b: should I participate in my 403b if I don’t think I’ll stay long enough to vest?

4 - Roth IRA: explainlikeimfive, how exactly do I invest in my Roth?!

5 - Medium term investing: is 2-3 years long enough to invest a down payment?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Twin by Living Waters Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Accidental Landlords, Debilitating Debt & The WFH Premium #1050

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Truths You Won’t Hear Anywhere Else w/ Len Penzo #1049

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Our guest today is a self professed personal finance oddball! Len Penzo spent 35 years in the aerospace industry before retiring at age 58 as an electrical engineer. Along the way he launched LenPenzo.com in December 2008 (he even helped to give Joel a start writing personal finance content back in the day). Since then, the blog has drawn millions of readers and earned awards from publications like Kiplinger. Len’s work has appeared in outlets like Forbes, Time, Business Insider, CBS MoneyWatch, and he’s been featured on radio and TV segments. And he now has a new book out called True Money Stories that’s about the intersection of money and family life. We discuss:

Intelligence vs. financial management
Running household finances like a business
The importance of honesty in personal finance
Allowing children to make financial mistakes
The annual sandwich survey and inflation
Navigating retirement and long-term care
And much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Check out Len’s book True Money Stories, more of his writings at his site, and follow over on X.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Quick Cash with eBay, Making Quarterly Estimates, & a Home Appraisal Goes Awry #1048

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - eBay: when to list and when to sell locally?

2 - Quarterly estimates: making estimates vs increasing withholding to avoid the tax shock

3 - Backdoor Roth IRA: is the window closing to make backdoor Roth IRA contributions?

4 - Buying a home: when it makes sense to make an as-is offer?

5 - Selling a home: what should I do if the appraisal comes back below the offer price?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

We referenced this holistic tax planning conversation with CFP Cody Garrett.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Rice Lager by Hi-Wire Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Refi Revival, Delay Pay Disaster, & Landline Love! #1047

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Demographic Dilemma and Your Dollars w/ Melissa Kearney #1046

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

“Demographics are destiny” is a phrase we’ve all heard. And while the future of America isn’t a foregone conclusion, declining birth rates, rising inequality, and the dramatic increase of single-parent households are having a profound impact on our society, impacting the overall economy. With all of this in mind, another question is raised: how should we respond and what money choices should we be making now? To help answer this question, we’re joined by Melissa Kearney who is an economist known for her extensive research on social policy, poverty, inequality, and the economics of families and fertility. Melissa is author of the book, The Two-Parent Privilege, and she’s a professor of economics at Notre Dame. We discuss:

How pessimism about the economy often contrasts with individual financial well-being
Declining birth rates are a global concern with potential economic consequences
Marriage is not just a romantic arrangement, it has economic implications too
Immigration could be a solution to counteract declining birth rates
Declining birth rates could lead to challenges in social security systems
Investing strategies may need to adapt to demographic changes

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Be sure to check out Melissa’s book, The Two-Parent Privilege!
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Avoiding the Credit Card Burn, Timing a HELOC, & Solar to Retire Sooner #1045

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Credit card autopay: how do I avoid getting hit with an interest charge?

2 - Timing a HELOC: should I apply and open a line of credit before my income drops significantly?

3 - Solar panels: should I take the plunge with solar in order to mitigate monthly expenses in retirement?

4 - Family money talk: how do I convince my parents that taking out a loan for some HVAC work is foolish?

5 - Cellular for wearables: what’s the best option if we’re adding a line for our kid’s watch?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Negotiating severance during an impending layoff by Financial Samurai.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
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During this episode we enjoyed a It’s Complicated Being A Wizard by Burlington Beer Co! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Underwater Autos, Freelancing FTW, & E-Fund Idiocy #1044

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pulling the Most Powerful Money Levers w/ Professor Kristen Carioti #1043

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Our guest today says, “you can’t transform the world if you’re living paycheck to paycheck.” We couldn’t agree more! And money literacy is at the heart of avoiding that fate. Not only did Professor Kristen Carioti literally write the personal finance textbook, but she also found a way to make personal finance classes a requirement at her school, Mount Mary University. Kristen is boots on the ground, teaching the next generation how to think about and handle their finances effectively. We discuss:

Students are eager to learn about personal finance, indicating a demand for a money education
Building good money habits early can lead to long-term financial success
Budgeting should be viewed as a plan rather than a restriction
Trade-offs in financial decisions are often overlooked by young adults
Financial tools should be chosen based on individual needs and effectiveness
And plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Check out Kristen’s site to learn more about her, the personal finance book, and reach out to her on LinkedIn to connect professionally!
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Break-Even Bank Switch, Doubling Down on a 457b, & Financing an ADU for Extra Cash #1042

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Switching banks and HSAs: what’s the break-even dollar amount for it to be worth it?

2 - Best early retirement accounts: should I prioritize a 457b over a 403b?

3 - Social Security timing: do I start drawing down at 62 and let my retirement portfolio grow or vice versa?

4 - Building an ADU: should I tap a HELOC or save up the cash to build?

5 - Affordable healthcare: what are actual costs if we opt out of actual health insurance?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Paying the $50 might be worth it for a detailed Social Security analysis.
If you’re looking for a very affordable health care alternative (like by a factor of 6x) that isn’t technically insurance, then you definitely need to check out Medi-Share.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Cordial Offering: Peanut Butter Cup by Edmund’s Oast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - 'Just In Case' Planning, Consumer Caste System, & Credit Scores Crashing #1041

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

You need a Bare Bones Budget!
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eat the Avocado Toast w/ Justin & Haley Brown-Woods #1040

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The supposed luxury of avocado toast, along with the latte, has become an “ok boomer” personal finance tip. “Stop frivolously spending your money and you’d be rich!”... we don’t actually believe that here at HTM and even if there’s a modicum of truth to that statement, it presents other challenges like: how long do you sacrifice in the short-term in order to achieve long-term financial success? Which is why we’re pumped to have financial counselors Justin & Haley Browns-Wood join the podcast today because these are the types of questions they guide their clients through on the reg.

Justin & Haley share their story which includes paying off six figures in debt – all on teacher’s salaries, despite burning through a $600,000 settlement. The couple behind Price of Avocado Toast discusses how lifestyle inflation led to their out of control debt, why debt consolidation is risky without behavioral change, examples of how tracking expenses are essential for gaining financial clarity, how shame around debt can be a common barrier to financial progress, but then we also talk about OkCupid and the intersection of intimacy and Dave Ramsey – it turns out that transformative experiences can strengthen relationships!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Head to PriceOfAvocadoToast.com to learn about everything Justin & Haley, including their financial coacking.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Best Grocery Cashback Credit Cards, Risking it with Ultra Cheap Car Rentals, & Giving Up on Home Ownership #1039

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Selling a home and renting instead: what do we do with cash from the closing table?

2 - Best credit card for groceries: but what about ethical fatigue from asking for annual fee waiver?

3 - High income Roth investors: how do we go about (legally) shoehorning some dollars in there?

4 - Car rental deals: is is worth it to go with the ultra cheap car rental that’s a fraction of the regular cost?

5 - Debt payoff: what’s the best method for knocking out 4 credit card balances?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Use Undebt.it to help you figure out a get-outta-debt plan
If you make too much to directly contribute to a Roth, the "backdoor Roth" might be just the thing to get you invested.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Fat Pug by Maplewood Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Pricey Porch Pumpkins, Twitter for Trading, & Saving for a Spouse #1038

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cutting Taxes & Retiring Sooner w/ Cody Garrett #1037

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Benjamin Franklin once wrote “... in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.” It was true over 200 years ago and it’s true today! But we’re here to argue that there’s another certainty pertaining to taxes: that we all have the ability to change our individual tax rate by our own actions! Our guest today, Cody Garrett, has thoroughly internalized that reality. He is an advice-only CFP at Measure Twice Financial who specializes in helping folks make a comprehensive financial plan. That includes the role taxes play in your ability to meet your goals. His new book, Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement, helps folks plan intentionally around a giant expense we all face, taxes.

We discuss the number of Americans, often involuntarily retiring before age 65, how Social Security should be factored into retirement planning but not solely relied upon, how small changes in savings rates can lead to significant retirement benefits, why flexibility in financial strategies is key to adapting to changing circumstances, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Be sure and check out the "Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement" Book: https://www.measuretwicemoney.com/book
- And you can enjoy Cody over at Measure Twice Money on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MeasureTwiceMoney
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Gifting $ to Other’s Kids, Most Affordable Protein, & Snagging the 529 State Deduction #1036

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Health spending and protein: what are the best ways to invest in health and get affordable protein?

2 - VA vs. conventional Loan: which mortgage option makes more sense?

3 - 529 accounts: how do I ensure that I’m getting the best investment options AND the state tax benefit?

4 - Insurance rate hikes: are rising home and auto premiums normal, or time to shop around?

5 - Gifting 529 funds: keep for education, cash out, or roll it into a Roth?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Golden Ale by Northwoods Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Flipping For Cash, Health Insurance Hikes, & Grim Googling #1035

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: thinner iPhones, recipe for saving the most with cellular, flipping for cash, health insurance hikes, thrifty Teslas, the future of EVs, the most expensive hobbies, grim Googling, new homes cheaper than existing, Social Security is more valuable than you thought, & underperforming funds to avoid!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Freedom on Less than $40k w/ Hope Ware #1034

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want to live joyfully and abundantly on a shoestring budget? Is it even possible or is it something from a bygone era?! With headlines shouting that even high income earners making $300,000 are living paycheck, achieving financial freedom on a $40,000 salary sounds like a pipe dream. But our guest today is proof that it’s possible and that you can have a good time along the way, too. Hope Ware runs the site & YouTube channel Under the Median along with her husband Larry, to instruct and inspire others to spend less, save more, and live joyfully on a mid five-figure income. She emphasizes the importance of proactively prioritizing, tracking expenses, and setting financial goals. Hope discusses the mindset shifts necessary for effective money management, the significance of teaching kids about money and the emotional aspects of spending, the importance of balancing frugality with building wealth, e-bikes, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Hope and Larry's free guide to reduce expenses!
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Condo Cold Feet, Investing in ABLE Accounts, and the Best Interest Rate Ever #1033

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it time to sell my condo or should I continue to rent it out?

2 - How do I financially prepare for our special needs son?

3 - Should I utilize a line of credit at 1% to pay off some credit card debt?

4 - Passive real estate investing apps: yay or nay?

5 - What tips or tricks to get my 12 year old invested in his Roth IRA?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Soulstice Sour by Almanac Beer! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Forgotten 401k, Peaking Pessimism, & Loyalty is for Losers #1032

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Walden Pond and your wallet, stocks at all-time highs, more ETFs than you can shake a stick at, forgotten 401k, peaking pessimism, creating your own American Dream, loyalty is for losers, locking down 5 years of internet, Prime purge, travel tips, the cheapest flights, and what’s up with tariffs.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Forgot about that 401k? Be sure and check out the National Registry of Unclaimed Retirement Benefits.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Built to Borrow: The Hidden Forces Behind Debt w/ John Dinsmore #1031

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

A lot of folks discover personal finance podcasts like this one after hitting a few bumps in the road – most often with debt. Maybe you’ve maxed out your credit cards, or you’re juggling more Buy Now Pay Later payments than you can keep up with. That kind of financial stress is heavy, and it often comes with a side of shame. But what if your money struggles aren’t just about willpower? What if the financial services industry is stacking the deck against you? Our guest today, John Dinsmore, is a marketing professor at Wright State’s College of Business. He studies how banks and lenders use clever marketing tactics to steer us toward debt. And he’s here to reveal the traps and show us how to spot and avoid them. Listen as we discuss how cultural attitudes towards debt can normalize harmful practices, when psychological factors like loss aversion affect debt decisions, avoiding status symbols that can lead to irresponsible spending, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Learn more about John and his marketing research here.
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Is a 25% Savings Rate Overkill, Avoiding State Minimum Insurance Requirements, & Eliminating 401k Loans #1030

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I not take a higher paying job because of a 401k loan I still need to pay back?

2 - My wife and I are younger investors but are looking to ramp up the savings: 401k or Roth?

3 - Is it possible to leave match money on the table by front-loading the sacrifice?

4 - Will my homeowners premiums go up if I make a claim with my insurance company?

5 - What are some ways to curb our grocery and restaurant spending?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Marbits by Southern Grist! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Pre-K For Pay, Helicopter Savers, & Politics Shmoliticks #1029

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: job skill certificates that don’t pay, pre-K for pay, death of the one page resume, debit card spending growth, BNPL saying the quiet part out loud, helicopter savers, politics shmoliticks AKA partisan politics (makes you) poor, working past retirement age, & cookie cutter financial advisors.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Move to Puerto Rico to Axe Taxes w/ Rachel Farris #1028

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Some families have lived on the same plot of land for generations… what’s more Americana than passing down the family farm to the next generation?! But the US also has a history of moving towards opportunity – the settling of the west and the gold rush in California, returning veterans moved at higher rates in the aftermath of WW2, and then more recently the pandemic led to an uptick in people reconsidering their living situation. BUT, what if the next great place to move to is an island in the Caribbean Sea? Not just because it’s beautiful, but because it offers certain tax perks that are unavailable anywhere else. Rachel Farris, CPA and tax strategist, joins the show to share the unique tax benefits of moving to Puerto Rico, particularly under Act 60, which offers significant savings for individuals and businesses. We discuss the implications of relocating including cultural adjustments of expat life, cost of living, the eligibility requirements for tax benefits, the appeal for W2 workers and entrepreneurs alike, the community of expats on the island, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

To learn more about the Act 60 Tax Strategy, head to MaximizeWealth.com and to reach out to Rachel directly, head to RachelFarrisCPA.com
Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Acorns to Jumpstart Investing, Seasoning a Cash Gift, & Social Security Running Out #1027

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I pay for Acorns to help me invest and what about real estate investing?

2 - How can I plan for the Social Security Trust Fund running out earlier than expected?

3 - Does it make sense to go with the financial advisor that my sister has recently hired?

4 - How long does a cash gift need to season in order for it to boost my credit score?

5 - FHA loan with a mortgage insurance premium vs waiting and saving up more?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Dawn Patroller by Hana Koi Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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Friday Flight - Digital Nomad Fatigue, Treat Culture, & Retired Renters #1026

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: autopay fees, school supplies and sloppy joes, Aldi item of the week, a recipe for mediocrity, digital nomad fatigue, treat culture, crowdfunded real estate investing flop, adjustable rates mortgage applications on the rise, retired renters, and lease purchase agreement attraction.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Best friends out!

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Defend Your Digital Life w/ Nathan Bartram #1025

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The pace at which technology advances is straight up disorienting in our current age. So much so, that it’s likely digital natives and even our kids who can figure out new tech gadgets faster than we can! For those of you who are using apps and AI regularly but not feeling like a pro – you’re worried about your privacy, passwords, & data as you navigate the online world – this episode is for you. Nathan Bartram founded TheNewOil.org in 2018 to equip everyday folks with the resources, websites, and alternatives they need to navigate the online world with confidence. We discuss why to even be concerned about privacy at all, favorite password managers, why Nathan detests Amazon, basic steps that everyone should take, and plenty more!

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Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Spending Cash Windfalls, Retirement Investing vs College Savings, & So You Think You Can Landlord?! #1024

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How hard should I push to be a landlord if I’m able to buy our next house without selling the current house?

2 - Should I dial back my investing for the kids’ college given the recent market volatility?

3 - What should I do with a recent inheritance of six figures?

4 - My daughter is going to Europe for a high school trip- what’s the best way for her to spend while abroad?

5 - What’s the most affordable way for my 11 year old to text and call, without internet or social media access?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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During this episode we enjoyed a Cordial Saison by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Housing Boom Busts, AI-Induced Outrage, & Infinite Workdays #1023

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: ridic Peloton fee, housing boom bust, where home prices go from here, realtors slowly fading away, medical debt to be aware of, contagious financial habits, crypto and private equity in the 401k, crypto mortgage applications, AI-induced outrage, employer perceptions and success, hybrid workdays are out, & infinite workdays are in.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Moving Up The Wealth Ladder w/ Nick Maggiulli #1022

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We’re glad to have friend of the show and newly married, Nick Maggiulli back on the podcast! He’s been given the nickname Nicky Numbers because he has a special gift for conveying wonky money information in a straightforward and digestible way. We’ve been fans of his blog, Of Dollars & Data, for years now. This episode is for everyone out there who wants to grow their net worth while finding more spending freedom which is our focus today. We discuss plenty of great issues like investing as a couple, prenups, what level of net worth means Nick considers to be middle class, how a Jay-Z lyric provides spending freedom, Nick’s favorite flavor of FIRE, biggest reasons individuals fall down the wealth ladder, what skills it takes to get you to the different levels of the wealth ladder, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Jumping Back Into the Workforce, HELOC Cash Grab, and Free Life Insurance Gotchas #1021

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How do I calculate whether it’s worth it to jump back into the work force?

2 - Should I take out a HELOC on my home in order to pay off other debts?

3 - Doesn’t it make sense to take Social Security early, even if the payout is smaller?

4 - Is the free life insurance offered to me through my local credit union legit?

5 - Can I utilize a “goodwill letter” in order to ask my student loan service to remove a late payment?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Summer Lihing Mango by Lanikai Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Bad RAPs, Price Match Murder, & Premium Points Credit Cards #1020

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: a 100 year old’s purchasing power, passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, boosting SALT deductions, waning EV tax credits, bad RAPs, student loan advice on TikTok, $80 popcorn buckets, Target price match murder, rising Amazon prices, premium points credit cards, and what to do instead!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WE BACK - Frugal Fun, Travel Tips, & Sabbatical Takeaways #1019

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Finally… a freshie! We’re done with bestie episodes for the summer and are excited to sit down and fill everyone in on what we’ve been up to for the past six weeks. We recount how lucky and blessed we are to be able to take a break from our 9-5, share some of our favorite ways we saved money while traveling (somehow in our first episode back we managed to discuss Aldi and Costco for those playing HTM bingo at home), and we only begin to touch on some of the lessons and takeaways from our time off. Active volcanoes, beef tongue, regenerative braking, EVs, lunchables, and padcrashing all make an appearance!

Thank you for hanging in there and we are excited to get back to our regularly programmed money earning-saving-spending-investing content. Y’all are the best listeners!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus Christ Super-Saver: Ancient Wisdom & Your Money (Bestie Ep) #1018

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We’re glad Ikea exists. The ability for a vast majority of the population to get their hands on some incredibly functional, well designed, and affordable furniture is a good thing. But, you’re also unlikely to pass Ikea furniture down to your kids or for that matter, use it for more than a handful of years. Compare that to a campaign dresser from the 1800s! It’s true that they don’t make them like they used to. The same is true when it comes to modern financial advice. There’s a lot of ‘wisdom’ floating around out there that is self-serving at best, and deceptive and predatory at worst. So in today’s episode we pull some ancient wisdom from the Bible, Stoicism, and other wisdom traditions from hundreds to thousands of years before our time. Then we connect that ancient wisdom to our modern times to help you to determine what you should be doing with your money.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Apricot Crumble by Vitamin Sea Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Complicated Should Investing Be? (Bestie Ep) #1017

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Have you ever renovated a home? If so, then you remember all of the decisions that you had to make that initially were a lot of fun. Paint colors, light fixtures, tile, even the kind of toilet you wanted… but eventually it gets old and you just want it done. If you can’t relate, even picking up a loaf of bread at the grocery store can be overwhelming- “Should I get honey wheat, 100% whole wheat, 13 grain, the stuff with flax?!” While it can be nice to have options, complicating things doesn’t always make them better. And when it comes to investing, the opposite is actually true. Decision fatigue is what we’re talking about and there can be so many distractions that keep us from reaching our financial goals. Lump sum vs dollar cost averaging, international stocks, ESG investing, real estate, hiring a financial advisor- these are just a few of the potential distractions that we discuss in today’s episode.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Symptom of Progeny by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Small But Mighty Real Estate Investing w/ Chad Carson (Bestie Ep) #1016

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We’re stoked to be talking with our friend Chad Carson, aka Coach Carson, which is also where you can find him online: CoachCarson.com. We’ve known Chad for years now but just because this feels like a more casual conversation to us, that doesn’t mean that he’s not going to bring the heat! We tout the benefits of small-time real estate investing, but Chad has made it his mission, and it’s the focus of his new book: Small and Mighty Real Estate Investor. During our conversation today Chad describes his experience of living abroad for a year with his family and how investing in real estate made that possible, house hacking as a gateway drug to investing in real estate, the difference between building wealth and achieving freedom, the risk you run by discounting the ‘romance’ of a property, ways to get around the high cost of mortgage lending, why it makes sense to pay off a mortgage early, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Zeros to Heaven West Coast IPA by Casa Agria! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Early Retirement A Smart Goal? (Bestie Ep) #1015

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Cinderella is such an absurd story! Seriously, when you stop and think- it’s pretty messed up: a prince dances with a girl he’s never met before for one night, and then he sends his goons around town to find her so they can get married. There’s a reason you go on dates for at least a few weeks before proposing. You’ve gotta kick the tires and perform some due diligence! Similarly, you might be completely obsessed with the idea of early retirement upon first hearing about it. And articles out there on the web sure do make it sound enticing. And it might be the right move for some folks, but not before thinking it through on a bunch of fronts. So we’re going to offer our thoughts on how to decide if retiring sooner than your peers is a good goal. We’re going to tackle a number of questions both financial in nature (like sequence of returns risk and ‘one more year syndrome’) but also some personal questions as well (like hobbies and how you’ll spend your days), that’ll help you decide if early retirement is a goal worth pursuing.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Ferrous by New Park Brewing- thanks for donating this one to the pod Matthieu! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overcoming Our Idiot Brains (Bestie Ep) #1014

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Have you seen the meme of the guy on a bike who puts a stick in his spokes and then crashes? There are literally hundreds of different versions based on this goofy comic. For instance the first frame on one says “15 holes of good golf,” then followed by “my brain realizing I’m playing well,” as he puts the stick in the front wheel before writhing in pain on the ground. The truth is, it’s not all that hard for us to become our own worst enemy. And that reality is what makes those memes so hilarious and poignant at the exact same time. We understand the truth, we know how it is that math works, and what it is that we should do… but then we go and do the exact opposite thing. And that’s particularly true when we’re talking about money. Simply knowing how to invest won’t make you wealthy and having good intentions won’t get the job done. So today we want to talk about some of the common ways we’re conspiring against ourselves and offer an antidote to help us make the progress we’re looking to achieve. As Carl Jung said, “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” It’s time to dig in!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an End of Plagues by Burial Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food Stamps to Financial Freedom w/ Yanely Espinal (Bestie Ep) #1013

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We’re joined today by Yanely Espinal, who is also known as MissBeHelpful in the online world of personal finance. Yanely was born in Brooklyn, she is a first generation daughter of immigrants, and even though she went to Brown University it didn’t take long for her to rack up over $20,000 in credit card debt. Academic performance doesn’t automatically mean that you know how to handle your money, and Yanely knew that she needed to make some changes! Before long she was sharing her experience online in order to help others and she parlayed her teaching career into serving as the Director of Educational Outreach at Next Gen Personal Finance. And now she’s recently published her first book: Mind Your Money. She is also currently on a political roller coaster ride across the country in order to convince lawmakers to make personal finance a high school graduation requirement. Listen as we talk about all of this and more today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Codebreaker West Coast IPA by Trademark Brewing. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biking is a Money & Life Hack (Bestie Ep) #1012

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

“Spend less than you make.” This is a maxim that is not only true but, if followed, will allow you to accomplish so many other goals that you might have in life. It’s a foundational concept. Similarly, we also think the same can be said for biking. Get this one thing right in your life- pedal your way to wherever you need to go, and so many other aspects of life will automatically fall into place. And we’ve actually been able to put our commitment to biking to the test since we’ve moved out of the city- you might be surprised to hear the results! Listen as we discuss the many different reasons we believe biking is a money and life hack, the positive impacts on our health, communities, and environment. And we also touch on how you can make biking more accessible in your community as well as how you can get started, even if you haven’t ridden a bike since you were eleven!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Lager by Bosque Brewing- a big thanks to Bob in New Mexico for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Diminishing Returns of Frugality (Bestie Ep) #1011

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Have you ever eaten so much dessert that you thought you might puke? Or maybe you find yourself at the end of a shopping spree with too many clothes in your closet than you could ever possibly wear? In both cases we’re talking about the diminishing marginal utility that we receive from each additional item we consume- the first cup of water after a run is wonderful, but the fifteenth... less so! Diminishing returns is a common way to describe this phenomenon, and we want you to know that this applies to frugality as well. There’s a certain subset of folks who think that the best way to handle their money is to be frugal to the max. And while we would even call ourselves a couple of frugal fellas, it’s important to point out that it’s not a financial tool that fixes everything. So while we’ll be the first to point out how frugality can make you wealthier due to how quickly you can implement it and it’s long-term implications, we’re also not shy about highlighting its downsides: how it can be the result of a fear driven mindset, how focusing on expenses can distract you from thinking about income, how it can lead to a miserly existence. There’s a way you can develop a healthy embrace of frugality and that’s what we’re discussing today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed The Void of Perspective That Became You and Me by Burial. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life After Financial Independence w/ The Mad Fientist (Bestie Ep) #1010

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We had the pleasure of sitting down with our friend Brandon Ganch, who is The Mad Fientist, while we were recently traveling in Scotland! Brandon started his career as a computer programmer but then quickly added blogger, podcaster, musician, and producer to his expanding list of pursuits and interests. This is a more casual conversation but listen as you’ll learn a lot about Brandon- life events that may have shaped his view of money, how he discovered and then became a leading voice in the Financial Independence Retire Early movement, working with his wife towards financial freedom, possible regrets from pursuing FIRE, and how having a kid and growing older has changed how he now spends his money. We were especially thankful for the Ganch’s hospitality considering they had just moved into their lovely home, with a new baby, just a week before us tourists arrived on the scene!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a delicious triple IPA that was graciously provided by Brandon: Puttty by Verdant Brewing based in the UK. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dirty Truth About Home Ownership (Bestie Ep) #1009

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

You’ve gotta wait 30 minutes to get back in the pool if you’ve eaten! Don’t pee in the pool- it’ll turn red! There are a lot of things we learned in childhood that we’ve likely discarded as false or at least irrelevant at this point. But there are probably some things we still believe because they were ingrained in our brain at an impressionable age. Similarly, there are a lot of folks clinging to the ‘American Dream’ that they should have that house surrounded by that white picket fence, why? Well in large part because it’s the financially smart thing to do. “You’re throwing away money if you're still renting!” It’s a “money fact” lodged somewhere in the recesses of our brain that we can’t shake. We think that recency bias is leading a lot of folks astray in their quest for home ownership. And of course higher mortgage rates play a role as well. On top of that, it turns out that it’s MUCH more affordable to rent in most major metros today, but how much could you save every month? But at the end of the day, if you still want to purchase a home we have a few prerequisites that you should have checked off your financial to-do list, before you start making offers.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a It Was A Time To Believe In Anything by Burial Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Pessimism Will Eat You Alive (Bestie Ep) #1008

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Whether you saw some crazies doing it on TikTok or read about it in a fitness magazine, it seems like a lot of folks are giving ice baths a try. Evidently it’s supposed to be good for your health, but regardless, there are hordes of people who are intentionally soaking in ice cold water around the 55 degree range. Of course this goes completely counter to what ‘normal’ people subject themselves to. Most folks like their showers warm or even hot, and in the rare instance when you run out of hot water, it can be incredibly frustrating. But just think if you had the perspective of those folks doing cold water therapy. Cold water wouldn’t be an inconvenience but rather something that you would embrace! Your outlook can impact a host of different aspects of life: your happiness, your health, and of course it can impact your money. And especially in our country, it seems that a malaise of pessimism is keeping folks from taking the most basic money moves that could benefit their future. So during today’s episode we present evidence of increased levels of pessimism, how it affects your ability to earn/save/invest your money, and some practical tips to becoming a more optimistic person which ultimately leads to more wealth.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Stress Dissolver Blackberry by Common Space- thanks to our buddy Joel for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Good Enough Job w/ Simone Stolzoff (Bestie Ep) #1007

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

“Work will always be work. Some people work doing what they love. Other people work so that they can do what they love when they’re not working. Neither is more noble.” This is a quote from Simone Stolzoff’s new book The Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life From Work, that’s set to publish in a couple weeks. And regardless of where you fall on that spectrum, whether you live to work, or work to live, Simone makes the argument that there are too many of us who are looking to our jobs to provide fulfillment in ways that are unhealthy. For some our careers have replaced religion, for others it’s a deep meaningful passion they’re looking for, and yet others have replaced their social circle with their office, and friends with their co-workers. We’re asking our work to wear too many hats! So today we have a great conversation with Simone Stolzoff about diversifying our identities, steps that both employers and employees can take in order to help define the ‘good enough job’, and some practical steps we can take in order to create boundaries in our pursuit of work-life balance.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Scrappalicious by Los Angeles Ale Works! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Gears: Ordering Your Money Decisions Properly (Bestie Ep) #1006

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Over 1,000 years ago, somehow, the Vikings were able to sail from Norway to Greenland. Without relying on any special instruments or any rudimentary technology, they were even able to reach as far as North America! Evidently they relied on the polarization of the sky, whales or birds they came into contact with, and the color of the ocean- quite remarkable. It seems unlikely that any sailors would be able to pull that off today with modern day technology. But that’s often what it feels like as you’re trying to get your financial ship pointed in the right direction. The vastness of options that lie before you feel overwhelming and the obstacles that we face are daunting, but we’re here today to help you to: a) geolocate your financial situation, and b) determine what your next steps should be. It’s important to know where you are, and where you are going. Following our Money Gears will not only allow you to reach your financial goals sooner, but it’ll be the most emotionally satisfying way to achieve that success as well. Listen as we discuss the Money Gears and how you should properly order your financial decisions.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Vinology: Semillon by Monday Night Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Independence Exists on a Spectrum (Bestie Ep) #1005

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Are you ‘credit card FI’ or are you ‘sabbatical FI?’ But maybe we’re getting ahead of ourselves… First, does anyone else remember the home run obsession back in 1998? In an attempt to beat the single-season record, home runs became the only metric that anyone watching baseball seemed to care about. But what’s interesting is that most MLB games aren’t won by someone sending a 450 foot bomb to center field. It’s an all-or-nothing approach that most often leads to a strikeout and taking a seat back in the dugout. And when it comes to seeking financial freedom, one of the problems with that go big or go home approach is that it can make financial independence seem unattainable, that FI is just out of reach of the typical American and you might as well give up. And others might see it as a false dichotomy- you’re either working 80 hour weeks in order to achieve FI, or you’re sipping pina coladas on the beaches of Tahiti. But we’re here to explain how financial independence exists on a spectrum, the different levels of FI, and how you can practically begin to put your financial freedom to use.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Hayburner IPA by Big Ditch Brewing- thanks to Liz and Tyler for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Use It Up, Wear It Out, Make It Do, or Do Without with Katy Wolk-Stanley (Bestie Ep) #1004

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Everybody has heard of a consumer advocate before- someone who helps to make sure that individuals are getting the best deal possible. Or to make sure that the quality of the products is up to snuff. For instance think of Consumer Reports and the countless reporting and tests they perform on the different items we use as consumers. But you likely haven’t heard of a ‘non-consumer advocate’ before and that’s who we’re talking with today; our friend Katy Wolk-Stanley! Katy’s site is TheNonConsumerAdvocate.com and she helps people learn to live on less, and to do so in a way that lessens their environmental impact. She’s an uber-frugalite who hardly ever buys anything new, and she uses that superpower to help others to live on as little income as possible. In this episode we discuss some of the different tactics that anyone can deploy: prioritizing lower tech solutions that last, how Katy easily fixes her broken household items, how minimalism and frugalism compliment each other, selling items on eBay, getting tax breaks for donating to Goodwill, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Cloudscape IPA by New Park Brewing- thanks for donating this one to the pod Matthieu! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Butchering Your Grocery Bill (Bestie Ep) #1003

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Do you know something that we’re all currently doing? Breathing. It’s something we rarely actively think about, but it turns out that there are ways to improve our technique- by breathing through our nose instead of our mouths, or by taking deeper slower breaths. Well we’re talking about another basic subject today: buying groceries. This elementary practice seems simple on the surface, but just like breathing there are tactics that you can implement in order to save more money at the supermarket. The cost of food has always been a big deal as it’s typically our third largest expense. But it’s a bigger deal than ever with grocery prices up nearly 12% in December compared to a year ago. Inflation is making it more expensive to eat! Listen for how much you should be spending every month, our take on meal delivery services, and many other money saving tips that you can implement in order to butcher your grocery bill today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Darken by Upland Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Essential Habits For Financial Success (Bestie Ep) #1002

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Close your eyes and think back to high school. No matter if those were the best years of your life or if you were more of a wallflower, you were likely told that you needed to get good grades- but why? Was it because you knew that you needed a particular GPA in order to get into a specific school? Maybe, but a lot of high schoolers just know that it’s generally a good idea to get high marks because it’s going to give you more options down the road (not to mention personal development, growth, yada yada). And in the same way that not all students know exactly what college they’re going to attend, not everyone has figured out what their big financial goals are going to be this year. But it’s about moving in the right direction with your finances, getting that momentum started even if the end goal is subject to change. And developing the right financial habits will help you start moving in the right direction, even if you don’t know what your ultimate destination will be. That’s what we’re talking about today- the essential habits for financial success!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Liquid Hop Magma by Mutation Brewing- a big thanks to Jack and our friends there at the brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Solutions for Money Anxiety with Financial Therapist Lindsay Bryan-Podvin (Bestie Ep) #1001

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

There’s more to successfully handling your money than just figuring out the financial nuts and bolts. Money has emotional and psychological components to it as well, which is at the core of what our guest today focuses on. We’re happy to be joined by Lindsay Bryan-Podvin, who happens to be the first financial therapist in the state of Michigan. She is a social worker-turned-financial therapist. She’s also the author of the book, The Financial Anxiety Solution, which is a workbook to help folks stop stressing about money by applying therapy techniques to their relationship with money. We’re excited to talk about how having more knowledge may not be the solution to your financial woes, how procrastination and perfectionism are tied at the hip, the value of understanding your financial archetype, how to have productive money conversations with a partner, & much more today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Mexican Lager by High Cotton Brewing- thanks Ben & Rachael for donating this one to the podcast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM Anything! #1000

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Join us as we celebrate our 1000th episode with an AMA!!! We are incredibly thankful and fortunate that we’re able to create a podcast for listeners who are looking to better their lives by improving how they handle their money. Of course at the core of the show are ways to earn, save, spend, and invest more effectively… all with a little bit of Joel and Matt sprinkled in. And that will continue to be the mission of How To Money. But for this episode, we wanted to take things in a different direction, and rather than answer your personal finance questions we wanted listeners to have the chance to be able to ask questions about everything except for money. This is our episode of How To EverythingElse!

What about taking the show on the road on a nation-wide tour?
If you opened a brewery, what would be the vibe/focus
Favorite board games? Favorite distance to run? Favorite race in Georgia?
What are some of your bucket list items?
If you had zero responsibilities, what would your perfect day look like?
What’s your dream vacation?
Weirdest job you’ve ever had?
How do you make friends as an adult?
Favorite non-financial podcasts?
plus lots of additional questions…

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a couple beers- one of which was Dark Hedges by Hop Butcher for the World! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're (mini) Retiring! w/ Jillian Johnsrud #999

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

*Special Episode Alert*... take a peek behind the curtain as we have an intimate, candid chat with our friend Jillian Johnsrud, a master of intentional career breaks and author of the upcoming book Retire Often (out in September). As we take a summer hiatus from new podcast episodes, we dive deep with Jillian into the art of stepping away from work. We explore overcoming the fear of pausing, navigating boredom, the stages of a meaningful break, how to discuss time off with others, and much more! We cut straight to it during this personal and inspirational convo!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Bone Church by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Monk to Money Manager w/ Doug Lynam #998

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest, Doug Lynam, has lived an extraordinary life! From overcoming bankruptcy to achieving financial security, taking vows of poverty as a Benedictine monk to managing over $250 million in assets as a wealth advisor, and graduating top of his class as a Marine to spending 20 years in monastic life, Doug’s journey is as diverse as it is inspiring. We have plenty of questions about how his unique experiences shape his approach to money and life, and what we can all learn to improve our own financial outcomes. We’ll also dive into his new book, Taming Your Money Monster: Nine Paths to Money Mastery with the Enneagram, which comes out next month. Doug takes spiritual wisdom, blends it with some psychological insight, all in an effort to help folks to successfully handle their money!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Elaborate Metaphor by Burlington Beer Co! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Road Trips with Old Cars, Steps to Combining Finances, & When to Drop Escrow #997

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is Matt planning to take his old clunker on his 2 week road trip?

2 - After getting married, what are the practical steps in combining our finances?

3 - I’m considering dropping my escrow… what are the pros and cons?

4 - Paying for daycare with a credit card now comes with an additional fee… is the juice worth the squeeze?

5 - What is the new, inflation adjusted, dollar amount for Money Gear #1?!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a whiteferrari by The Veil! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Dumpster Diving, Insurance Dodging, & Pudgy Penguins #996

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: matched 529 funds, luxury dumpster diving, the apps are spying on us, insurance dodging, wealthy home chefs, fresh Costco perks, God mode investing, leveraged fund retirement accounts, pudgy penguins, tighter used car market, Cybertruck losses, and Smartless cellular.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Power of Cash w/ Jay Zagorsky #995

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Will our guest today convince us to ditch digital payments?! Listen to find out!

Because here’s something that we hear all the time: “You can just Zelle me” or “Venmo me!”. It’s sort of like “I’ll just Uber to the airport” – once a company name has become a verb, is it possible to decouple it from culture? And of course the fact that they’re incredibly fast and easy makes the various payment options very attractive. They certainly make life easier when it comes to paying rent for our little office. It definitely takes the hassle out of receiving rent from tenants and I think they’d say the same thing. You don’t have to worry about lugging around your wallet and don’t get us started on credit card benefits! But you better believe that our guest today wholeheartedly disagrees! We’re joined by Professor Jay Zagorsky who is an economist at Boston University’s Questrom School of Business. And he's the author of a new book that was published a couple months ago: The Power of Cash: why using paper money is good for you and society. He makes arguments for why we’ll spend less, live healthier lives, and have a more resilient society when we treat actual, physical cash as king.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Sun Kissed by Edmund's Oast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Teenage Homebuyers, Best Type of Life Insurance, & Making Easy Money with Securities Lending #994

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I participate in securities lending if that’s a service my brokerage is offering?

2 - Life insurance is on the horizon so should I get an indexed universal life plan like some friends of ours did?

3 - I’d like to purchase a home in the next few years… would it be beneficial to apply for a new Apple card?

4 - Does it make more sense to repair or replace an old Cadillac that’s due for some repairs?

5 - Should I keep the fancy portfolio that Bloom, now defunct, created for me or is there a better option?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Doom Volume by The Veil! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Unemployment Uptick, Ridiculous Returns & The 4% Rule Debunked #993

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Southwest sale extension, unemployment uptick, you too U3?, 401k contribution cutbacks, 4% rule debunked, avoiding the annuities, high priced mocktails, Gen Z forgoing the bar tab, Kirkland Sig old fashioned, dressed by the internet, golden age of secondhand shopping, and ridiculous returns.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No New Things w/ Ashlee Piper #992

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

I’m pretty sure everyone listening will want to either get out of debt, reduce the amount of clutter in their life, crush other financial goals, become healthier and happier… OR, why even choose? Why not select: d - all of the above?! That’s because that was the outcome of our guest today, Ashlee Piper, who documented her journey in her new book No New Things: A Radically Simple 30-Day Guide to Saving Money, the Planet, and Your Sanity. Ashlee is a political strategist turned sustainable living expert who has shared her message as a professor in Chicago, on Good Morning America, to her TED Talk, & everywhere between. We discuss the data and how much time we spend shopping or the time taking care of the items we’ve purchased, why she recommends making a “Love List” and how that curbs spending, the vital role our community plays in avoiding new things, utilitarian reasons vs emotional stimuli to purchase, and plenty more in this episode!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Hanami by Japas Cervejaria! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Early Retirement Target Date Funds, Frugal Personal Hygiene, & Coercive House Painting #991

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What target date fund should I go with if I’d like to retire early?

2 - Frugal or cheap: pouncing on an incorrectly priced item at the store?

3 - Do I prioritize my HSA if I don’t receive a state tax deduction?

4 - My homeowners insurance says I need to cut back trees and paint the house… should I push back?!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Black Quad by Real Ale Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - TACO Trading, Pointless Points, & Millionaire Renters #990

Fri, 30 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: CPAP on the cheap, Southwest charging extra, TACO trading, tariffs getting blocked, investing via the Big Beautiful Bill, pointless points, Discover Capital One merger, getting priced out of the housing market, millionaire renters, and house swapping.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pharmacist to Full Time Real Estate Investor w/ Ryan Chaw #989

Wed, 28 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Newer listeners may not realize how OBSESSED with investing in real estate we were back in the day. In fact, when we were batting around ideas for a podcast, we initially thought it might be focused only on real estate... Luckily we zoomed out enough to cover personal finance more broadly. And it’s not that we’re not excited about rentals anymore, although the current state of the economy has changed our personal approach. But our guest today, Ryan Chaw, is most certainly all-in on real estate which is why we’re stoked to have him join us. Ryan grew his net worth to an astonishing $1.5 million at the age of 28, he completely replaced his pharmacist salary when he was 31, and is now helping others to do the same as a real estate investing coach. We discuss stepping away from a lucrative career, Ryan’s unique strategy of rentals in college towns, using his PRIME method for maximizing profit, high standards when it comes to due diligence, scaling his operations, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Hell or High Twilight by 21st Amendment! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Buying a Used Mattress, Best Use of an Inheritance, & Disqualified from a Roth #988

Mon, 26 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I use an inheritance to pay off my house?

2 - Buying a used mattress- frugal or cheap?

3 - What should I do with Roth IRA contributions that I’ve already made, if I no longer qualify by the end of the year?

4 - Is it worth paying extra for an extended warranty on our new electric vehicle?

5 - How do I go about switching brokerages if I’m wanting investment options at a different company?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Anatomical Transmutation by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Credit Crunch, MAGA Money, & Gas Gouging #987

Fri, 23 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: flipping dishwashers, credit crunch, what a US downgrade means for us, $70k high school jobs, the Humble Dollar match, MAGA money, gas gouging, competition at the gas pump, rising home internet costs, newsletter overload, where gold and real estate stack up, & small businesses leading to stealthy wealthy.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Impoverished Upbringing to Money Monster w/ Listener Nick Gangwer #986

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We’re trying something completely new for our episode today: we’re hearing from a listener. Not in the form of a question submitted via voice memo, but we’re actually sitting down and having a ‘real money’ conversation, with Nick Gangwer. We met Nick at a listener hang about a year ago and his personal story and the proactive steps that he had taken to completely change his trajectory in life was incredibly inspirational to us as personal finance creators. And then more recently we realized that his story could be incredibly motivational to the broader HTM community of money nerds as well. So have a listen as we discuss growing up in a trailer park, scholarships to pay for college, saying ‘yes’ to every opportunity, buying a house in undergrad and house hacking, FIRE goals and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Electric Jellyfish by Pinthouse Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Special Roth Accounts, Investing During A Sabbatical, & Reverse Mortgages #985

Mon, 19 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Where should I open a Roth IRA for my kiddo now that she’s earning some money?

2 - What is it about reverse mortgages that makes them inferior financial products?

3 - Given the uncertain economic outlook this year, how should I invest?

4 - How can my wife contribute to a retirement account when she doesn’t have any earned income?

5 - Is it a problem that I’m keeping my emergency fund in a local brick and mortar in order to have fast access to cash?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a DDH Refreshing by Tired Hands Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Streaming Sports, Trade-In Tradeoffs & AI Lies #984

Fri, 16 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: home warranties, bringing down renovations costs, streaming sports, AMC Stubs, set-jetting to luxury resorts, Carvana making it too easy, car-free neighborhoods, ode to e-bike, AI lies, loneliness: there’s an app for that, Fortnite is back, tariff cease-fire, and financial anxiety.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Practical AND Beautiful Investing Advice w/ Callie Cox #983

Wed, 14 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

What it means to have a practical and beautiful portfolio. How recent policy decisions have roiled the stock market. Right-sizing your risk tolerance… These are just a few of the topics we discuss with our guest Callie Cox who is a part of the Ritholtz Wealth Management team. She is also the author of OptimistiCallie, her newsletter where she seeks to deliver sane and rational advice to everyday investors, just like us (don’t think we’re completely immune to these turbulent times)! Callie works to make investors feel confident about their investments and informed about the money decisions that they’re making – we think that’ll be you after listening to this episode!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed Pineapple Vanilla Milkshake IPA by Whistle Hop! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Unnecessary Credit Cards, Creatively Funding Grad School, & Dropping Car Insurance To Save #982

Mon, 12 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How necessary is a credit card to get by in life?

2 - What are some creative ways to pay for graduate school as I’m interested in a mid-life career shift?

3 - Does it make sense to switch to Roth contributions since my wife will be retiring soon?

4 - Should we drop full coverage insurance on our cars in order to beef up our savings?

5 - Cash gifts to small kids: cash in jars, earmarked in my HYSA, or their own savings account?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Guillotine of Contemplation by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Paper Wealth, Target Date Trends, & Bye Bye Buffett #981

Fri, 09 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Best Buy and Walmart policy updates, homes are getting smaller, paper wealth effect, target date trends, gold beating out VOO, bye bye Buffett, beneficiary brushup, credit repair companies, medical debt dings, fintech vs real banks, and boosting your Social Security benefit!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Creating a Post-Layoff Action Plan w/ Marlo Lyons #980

Wed, 07 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Gone are the days of constantly job hopping in order to rapidly boost your salary! Remember when perusing new job listings during your lunch break while WFH led to a 10-30% pay bump?! Now, with the uncertainty we’re experiencing in the overall market, it’s not just the new hires who are a bit nervous about hanging onto their jobs. Even government workers who thought they had fairly secure positions might be on the chopping block. Long-time employees are experiencing job insecurity! Which is why we’re glad to speak with career coach Marlo Lyons, because not only does she have over 20 years of experience in the hiring and firing field, but she has personal experience and a unique perspective having been fired herself. Marlo is the author of “Wanted: A New Career” where she goes in-depth on pivoting to a new career, she has a new book out about landing that first job, and she’s host of the Work Unscripted podcast. Listen as we discuss the shifting job market, focusing on “can do” jobs vs “want to do” jobs, three steps that everyone looking for a job needs to take, and plenty more during this episode!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Art Car IPA by Saint Arnold Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Pro Help to Break the Paycheck to Paycheck Cycle, Down Payment Money Market Accounts, and Viable Student Loan Forgiveness Plans #979

Mon, 05 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How can I find a financial coach to help me to quit living paycheck to paycheck?

2 - Should I put my savings in a money market account if I’m saving up for a home down payment?

3 - Which student loans are actually going to be cancelled after a period of time?

4 - I have thousands in medical bills that are coming due - should I put those charges on a credit card if I have the cash?

5 - Does it make sense to sell the old truck in order to pay off our house a few months earlier this year?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Spring by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Thrifty Trucks, Pricey Parking, & Soaring Secondary Costs #978

Fri, 02 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: secondhand gifts, the #1 thing for financial well-being, how much you actually need in an emergency fund, thrifty trucks, the most affordable cars to insure, pricey parking, paying interest at the grocery store, performing a food waste audit, bye buy Temu and Shein, soaring secondary costs, how much life did that cost you?, & plummeting plane (tickets)!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Student Loan Shakeup w/ Travis Hornsby #977

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The Feds are cracking down on defaulted student loans! According to the new US Education Secretary, it’s time for student borrowers with federal loans to begin making payments. The clock is ticking and May 5th is the date that nearly 2 million borrowers are going to be moved into repayment plans and collections will begin for loans that are in default with over 5 million borrowers at risk of garnished wages. This is a massive shakeup from what borrowers have experienced over the past 5 years, and we’re thankful to be joined by founder and CEO of Student Loan Planner, Travis Hornsby to parse the details. Travis has a massive amount of experience having consulted on several billion dollars of student debt and today we discuss what borrowers should do to avoid wage garnishments, whether PSLF is under fire, some simple steps to take to ensure that borrowers are paying as little as legally possible, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Only Calling Hours Pull Me Back To These Midwestern Roots by Burial and Hop Butcher (yes, that’s the actual name of that beer)! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Student Loans vs Investing, Best Cell Service While Abroad, & the Role of Faith in Our Finances #976

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How should I strike the balance between paying off my student loans versus investing?

2 - Since I loan money to friends, can I report their on-time payments to help them build their credit?

3 - What is the role of faith in your lives and how does it pertain to handling your personal finances?

4 - Should I use my company stock vests to pay extra towards my mortgage?

5 - I’m planning to travel internationally so what cell phone provider should I go with?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Birdie Putt by Six Bridges Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Debt Defaults, VIP Investments, & Regretful Retirees #975

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: student loan repayments resume, debt defaults, the rise of 84 month car notes, VIP investments, tapping money in a turbulent market, strategic Roth conversions, regretful retirees, working less for FIRE sustainability, mini-retirements, timeshares, copycat hotel sites, and getting a REAL ID.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cheap Travel Truth w/ Scott Keyes #974

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Who doesn’t wish that they were currently listening to this episode while lounging at the beach, on a European adventure, or even completely off the grid hiking somewhere amazing?! Of course we all want to do that but c’mon, it’s too expensive! That is the unfortunate excuse that we give ourselves for why we don’t travel as much as we’d like, but our guest is here to set the record straight. Scott Keyes is the founder of Going, the travel platform that was formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights. Over at Going, Scott is all about helping travelers snag the absolute best flight deals- from mistake fares, to the best time to book flights, to specific travel recommendations… listen as we have a wide-ranging conversation that will get you excited to plan your next excursion.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kolsch by Altstadt Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM Special Edition: Tariffs, Market Volatility, & How It All Impacts You #973

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Let’s dive into the week with some fresh listener questions we have lined up for you on this Special Tariffs Edition of Ask HTM (more on that further down). But don't just stand on the sidelines- if you have a question you’d like us to answer, toss your voice memo our way. It only takes about 90 seconds to record and you can find a step by step guide over at HowToMoney.com/ask . Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!

But as the title states, we’re going to cover a ton of different questions that all pertain to the issue of tariffs and how they are going to impact you and your money. For instance:

Should I diversify to international investing given the state of things?
Can you discuss if tariffs are a form of regressive tax?
Is moving more dollars into gold and crypto a smart move?
Does my emergency fund get factored into unemployment benefits?
How do you come up with a Bare Bones Budget?
Is this a ridiculous time to sell our house?
How should I consider an early retirement offer from my employer?
As an investing ‘late bloomer’, how does market volatility impact my ability to save for retirement?
Does more market volatility make paying for Betterment’s auto tax loss harvesting a good idea?
and additional concerns...

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Yellow Rose Smash IPA by Lonely Pint! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Panic Pre-Purchasing, Un-Trustworthy TikTok Trends, & “Recession Hair” #972

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Elon stickers, panic pre-purchasing, used car prices ticking up, tariff surcharges, make used great again, untrustworthy TikTok trends, buying vs being dupes, fatter E-funds, fearing overdraft fees, “recession hair”, overpriced 8k, predictable phone pricing, and Coachella with interest.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Economic Cheat Codes for Everyday Life w/ Daryl Fairweather #971

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We’re joined by the Chief Economist at Redfin, Daryl Fairweather, so you know we’re talking about the current state of the real estate market today. But before she was knee-deep in housing data Daryl was the senior economist at Amazon, and before that she was a researcher at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston which is when she was working with Freakonomics author Steven Levitt. Now, she has a new book that just came out last week, Hate The Game: Economic Cheat Codes for Life, Love, and Work. The book is all about helping folks to use game theory and behavioral science to lay out all the options in life. For example whether you should get married and have kids or not, or going for a promotion versus looking for a new job, or whether or not you should move to a new city! Basically, Daryl is wanting to help folks win at whatever game in life they’re playing and we also discuss her favorite nerdy board game, the solutions to high housing prices, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Argyle Raspberry Key Lime Sour by Contrast Artisan Ales! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Paying for DeleteMe, Investing like the Ivies, and When a New Car Makes Sense #970

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Let’s dive into the week with some fresh listener questions we have lined up for you! And don't just stand on the sidelines- if you have a question you’d like us to answer, toss your voice memo our way. It only takes about 90 seconds to record and you can find a step by step guide over at HowToMoney.com/ask . Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!

1 - Should I follow the investment portfolio modeled by Yale’s endowment fund?

2 - Are there DIY ways to scrub my personal info from the web or should I pay for DeleteMe?

3 - Does it make sense to pay for medevac insurance or is it included in Medicare?

4 - Is it a bad idea to perform a retirement account rollover when the market is down?

5 - When does it make sense to pay for a new car in cash?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Houndstooth Sour by Contrast Artisan Ales! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Forging Financial Flexibility in an Uneasy Economy (Bestie) #969

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Flexibility is a characteristic that will serve you well! This reminded Joel of his summer beach trip with his family to Tybee Island. Shortly after they left, there was a massive swarm of jellyfish that meant beachgoers couldn’t even get in the water. Lifeguards treated around 300 visitors for jellyfish stings in a single weekend. And while that would’ve been a bummer if you were wanting to spend some time in the ocean, it didn’t mean that you couldn’t have any fun in the sun. It just would’ve meant more time playing bocce or spikeball! And we believe the same is true when it comes to our money. Just like you might need to adapt your vacation plans if jellyfish have taken over the water, seeing the current trends can help us optimize our decisions and avoid unnecessary financial pain. And while it’s always good to strive for financial flexibility, we think this is even more important today given the incredible amount of change that we’ve seen impact markets over the past two years. So listen as we lay out some scenarios that highlight the benefits of flexibility, as well as practical steps that’ll allow you to achieve a higher degree of financial flexibility.

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During this episode we enjoyed a Six which is a saison style beer by Upright Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Banking on Bitcoin w/ Natalie Brunell #968

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Whether it’s too late to get in on BTC, hackers targeting crypto, what a Federal Bitcoin Reserve means for the price of BTC… these are just a few of the topics we get into today with our guest, Natalie Brunell. When we occasionally talk about Bitcoin, it’s typically within the context of investing, and even then our approach is for it to be a relatively small portion of our overall portfolio. Could most folks do without it? Totally. Don't overly focus on what we see as a more alternative investment if you’re not predominantly in low-cost index funds. Don’t major in the minors. But that is not at all how Natalie views Bitcoin. She sees it initially as an asset, but then as an entirely new system of money- a system that is incorruptible and nonpartisan. In Natalie’s words, BTC is egalitarian, it doesn’t benefit any race over another, and it’s the purest expression of freedom and self-determination, who doesn’t want that?! For over a decade Natalie was an investigative journalist and is now a predominant figure in the BTC space, she’s an influential educator, host of the Coin Stories podcast where she dives in deep and we think you’ll really enjoy her thoughtful approach to investing in crypto!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Stash IPA by Independence Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Deciding How Much ‘Fun $’, Prepping for Long Term Care, & Doubling Down on Employer Retirement Accounts #967

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - As newlyweds, how do we decide how much money we each get to spend as fun money?

2 - Should I further invest with my employer provided retirement accounts or should I open my own?

3 - What assets are vulnerable to the high costs of a long term care facility?

4 - Does it make sense to commingle my emergency fund with money I use to fund my hobby?

5 - Why is there a difference between different brokerage funds that all track that same index?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Bossy Blonde by Contrast Artisan Ales! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Tax Tips, Wage Deflation, & Liberated From Low Prices #966

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: thrift stores and radon tests, last minute tax tips, Liberation Day and tariffs, wage deflation, secondhand phones, dumb beautiful expensive phones, gorilla windows, fancy schmancy investing features, and BNPL on credit reports.

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Trustworthy Tax Advice w/ Jasmine DiLucci #965

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Imagine a scenario where you purchase pretty much whatever you want at the grocery store, you frequently go out to eat, and on top of that you always buy drinks for friends- no questions asked. That’s about what it would take to get food spending up to around 15% of average household income… but that sounds a bit insane! Most folks shop for sales, attempt to eat their leftovers, and on special occasions cover the check. But that spendthrift approach is exactly how a lot of Americans pay their taxes- they just pay what they think they’re supposed to. And on average most folks pay a little under 15%, they assume that’s just the way it is, but we think there’s a more strategic way to approach this inevitable expense. And here to talk about doing that well is Jasmine DeLucci- tax attorney, CPA, and enrolled agent. Jasmine has a wealth of knowledge around the US tax code and started posting online because she believes tax law should be available to everyone. Listen as we discuss the important role IRS transcripts play, vetting tax preparers, business expenses, tax-advantage ways to pass wealth onto future generations, and much more!

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During this episode we enjoyed a SeaQuench Ale by Dogfish Head! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Budgeting for Housing Splurges, ChatGPT for Your Savings, & Churning Free Gym Trials #964

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is there a new homeowner rule of thumb for housing maintenance for that first year of ownership?

2 - Should I use ChatGPT in order to juice my savings returns?

3 - Does it make sense to pay off my mortgage with savings in a brokerage account?

4 - Do I include a pension lump sum when calculating my net worth?

5 - Churning gym membership free trials: frugal or cheap?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Lil Biggie on Chrome by Contrast Artisan Ales! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Education Evisceration, BNPL Burgers, & Torched Teslas #963

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: car wash memberships, education evisceration, test result declines, student loan income recertification pause, Frontier’s troll move, BNPL burgers, leftovers in the lurch, the World Happiness Report is a sham, shared meals are my jam, torched Teslas, imported car tariffs, credit card interest rate caps, and Joann’s gift card debacle.

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Best friends out!

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Getting the Job You Want w/ Madeline Mann #962

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Today on the podcast we’re joined by Madeline Mann who is an HR and recruiting leader and is also the author of Reverse the Search which hits the shelves on April 1st. Madeline spun her insider knowledge of the hiring process into an award-winning career coaching empire, called Self Made Millennial, where she has reached millions of folks. Through her platforms and coaching, Madeline works to turn job seekers into ‘job shoppers', enabling any professional to land high-paying job offers, with many even landing roles at competitive Fortune 500 companies. She's been featured over in the WSJ, NYT, ABC News, she has over 24 million views over on YouTube, and we're excited for listeners to hear her insight and wisdom. We discuss the old methods of job hunting and why they no longer work, what it takes to stand out amid countless applicants, the biggest mistakes everyone makes on their resumes, the best questions to ask during an interview, and plenty more!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Fonio Rising by Brooklyn Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Responding to a Rental App Denial, Crummy 529 Plans, and Buying Land as an Investment for Family #961

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I dial back my 401k contributions to build up an emergency fund or can I just rely on my HELOC?

2 - How should I respond to a denial letter on a rental application I filled out?

3 - I want to purchase some land but what factors should I keep in mind as I consider this investment?

4 - Is it worth going with my state’s 529 plan for the tax break… even if the fees are much higher than average?

5 - “3x your salary saved by age 40”, is this a rule of thumb that I should go with?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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During this episode we enjoyed an Indominus by Bold Monk! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Appealing ARMs, Iterating Investments, & College Cost Cuts #960

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: tariffs as a hard sale, appealing ARMS, building booms = rent declines, stagnant realtor commissions, iterating investments, future you and crap sandwiches, exclusive social clubs, skipping to the front of the line, college cost cuts, free degrees, T-Mobile raising rates, the most affordable cell phone plan, and buy once cry once.

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Best friends out!

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Make More Money, Do More Good w/ Derrick Kinney #959

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We argue that money itself isn’t a good or bad thing, it’s not holy or evil, but we do think it comes down to what you do with it that makes the world a better or worse place. That message is also at the heart of Derrick Kinney’s best-selling book “Good Money Revolution”... what are you doing with your money, what actions are you taking? That’s at the crux of the matter. And we’re joined by Derrick whose mission is to inspire individuals to use their wealth to align with their personal values, and to actually strive to make more money so they can create even more of a positive impact in the world! We discuss identifying your generosity purpose, putting together a plan to giving your money away, how it pays approach your W2 with the attitude of an entrepreneur, and plenty more today!

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Lower Falls IPA by Highland Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Mass Government Layoff Triage, If Declining Rental Income Is Still Worth It, and Generating Passive Income #958

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What should I do after losing my job during the recent mass government layoffs?

2 - Money is tight, so should we sell our condo that we’ve been renting for the past two years?

3 - I’d like a secondary source of income that generates $60,000 annually- should I consider ETFs, REITs, or traditional real estate?

4 - Is the Costco Anywhere Visa worth signing up for?

5 - How do I analyze whether buying a home is worth it if we’re only going to be there for five years?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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During this episode we enjoyed a Founders KBS! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Tariff Tantrum, Southwest Succumbs, & The Greatest Grocers #957

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Uber vs Lyft, tariff tantrums, Southwest succumbs, there’s a coach for that, investing your emergency fund, tapping the 401k, Chase blocking Zelle, unpaid toll scams, the greatest grocers, senior discounts, and free energy audits.

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Best friends out!

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Cultivating a Wealthy Mindset w/ Shang Saavedra #956

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Living on one partner’s income, stepping away from corporate America, firing up a serious side hustle… these are just a few of the topics we’re discussing with our guest today. Shang Saavedra is a financial coach, founder of the site Save My Cents, and now author of the new book “Wealth is a Mindset.” Shang lives at the intersection of mental health and financial wealth, and she uses her own personal experiences, like achieving financial independence by the age of 31, to help others to achieve their own financial goals. We discuss ambition, living in NYC, making sacrifices for a better future, and plenty more during our episode today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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During this episode we enjoyed a Three Headed Monster by New Realm! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Finding Travel Deals, 401k Match Changes, and Our Take on Long Term Disability #955

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I be wary of changes made to my 401k match that are actually more generous?

2 - I already have my own long term disability policy in place, but should I drop if for one provided by my employer?

3 - How can I continue to contribute to my Roth IRA if I expect my income to continue to rise?

4 - What’s the best way to book a deal on some upcoming travel?

5 - Is it frugal or cheap to only charge my EV during off-peak hours?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Birramisu by Six Bridges Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Student Loan Shakeup, Doom Spending, and the Mounting Mini-Stagcession #954

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: more cultural events means less depression, student loan shakeup, credit score drops for borrowers, best new cars, totaled cars leading to paying out of pocket, e-bike rebates, doom spending, mounting mini-stagcession, affordability czar, and the national crypto reserve.

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Best friends out!

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Launching an Offbeat and Sustainable Business w/ Jason Zook #953

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

“Solve a problem for people in an interesting way” and “There’s not one way to do business”... those are just a couple quotes from our conversation with Jason Zook. Our goal for this episode is for you to finish listening, and to be completely inspired to start your own small business. Unfortunately, there can be this aura around starting an “official business” that keeps creative individuals who have great ideas from pursuing something that is going to light them up and prove to be successful. Sure, getting an MBA might be the best path to take for a certain subset, but there are a lot of folks who might be better served by just going for it, and figuring it out along the way! And here to talk about that is Jason, an entrepreneur who takes a very unconventional approach to business formation. He and his wife currently run Wandering Aimfully, which is a platform that seeks to help creative entrepreneurs build successful, sustainable businesses that fit with their lifestyle, all while avoiding the burnout that tends to come with hustle culture. Listen as wee discuss everything from Jason auctioning his last name, creating ‘calm’ businesses, to living abroad in Portugal and more!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Na Chouffe by Brasserie Chouffe! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Cashback vs Travel Points, Letting a Brokerage Cook, and the Right Way to buy a First Home #952

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Cash back or travel points credit card… aren’t the rewards basically the same?

2 - Should I continue to let my investments in my taxable brokerage account continue to grow or should I focus on my mortgage?

3 - What factors like size and location should we consider when buying our first apartment?

4 - Does it make sense to pay for a credit lock with the 3 major credit bureaus?

5 - Can you help me understand Joel’s Costco Instacart hack?

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During this episode we enjoyed a 2025 Bigfoot by Sierra Nevada! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Brainless Borrowing, DOGE Dividends, & Abroad on a Budget #951

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: renting the fancy clothes, lowest cost airports, the frequent flier switch, going abroad on a budget, secondary credit card benefits, referral bonus taxation, (not so) unlimited PTO, saving the most with health sharing, ghost tax preparers, DIY vs tax pros, brainless borrowing, updated Money Gear #1, and DOGE dividends.

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

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Navigating the Insane Insurance System w/ Consumer Reports' Lisa Gill #950

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The price of gas, the price of eggs and milk- these are the kinds of expenses that we’re very sensitive to as consumers because of how frequently we make these purchases. And don’t forget visibility of course with the price per gallon essentially plastered on electronic billboards we consistently drive past! But the cost of insurance feels like the exact opposite. We rarely shop for coverage, it’s not often discussed, and automatic payments insulate us from rising premiums. In the case of homeowners insurance there’s an additional layer of insensitivity in the form of escrow. But insurance is becoming more of a burden and here to tackle this problem is Lisa Gill from Consumer Reports. Lisa is an investigative journalist and we’re going to discuss everything from wildfires to prescription drugs, what to do if you receive an insurance cancellation notice, the steps to take when you receive a medical bill that’s way too high, and much more during our episode!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Primordia by Freak Folk Bier! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Is Direct Indexing Worth It, Sticky Cosigning Situations, & Kiddos With Credit Or Debit #949

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - What do I do about money being taken out of my savings because of a student loan I co-signed?

2 - Should I invest in a 401k with unfavorable terms or my brokerage account instead?

3 - Is it worth paying extra for direct indexing, given the additional benefits like tax loss harvesting?

4 - Do I link a credit card or a savings with a debit card, to my 11 year old’s Apple Watch?

5 - If I had to choose one: IRA or HSA?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Tiny Esses by Prairie Artisan Ales! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Federal Layoffs, Renting Roosters, & VOO FTW! #948

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Joel’s portable pop up sauna, cooling housing market, horrible HOAs, federal layoffs, financial resiliency with a Bare Bones Budget, affordable iPhones, the cheapest cell coverage, renting roosters, forsaking fast food, craft beer tariffs, investing to overcome inflation, 401k retirees, and VOO FTW!

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Breaking the Hidden Barriers to Financial Freedom w/ Jessica Moorhouse #947

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

We’re joined today by Jessica Moorhouse who started out as a blogger, looking for a creative outlet and way to hold herself accountable, and is now a financial counselor, speaker, and host of her own podcast- More Money. She is also the author of the new book, “Everything But Money: The Hidden Barriers Between You and Financial Freedom”. Jessica is all about providing easy to understand advice, delivered in a non-judgemental way, and she believes that there’s a lot of stuff that gets in the way of us being able to achieve our financial goals. Maybe most folks already know how to invest, but what they need is help with the trauma from their upbringing!? Maaaybe we even get into our own money stories from way back when, back when we were little kids and how that shaped our personal views of money… we get into all of that and more during our conversation today!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Deduction by Taxman Brewing Co! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Birth Now Pay Later, Forcing Home Equity with a Basement Build, & Saving vs Paying Credit Cards #946

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Should we take advantage of interest free payments offered by our hospital after a baby delivery?

2 - What’s the best way to finance a basement buildout?

3 - After we move out of state, what should we do with my wife’s pension that she will no longer qualify for?

4 - Is it smarter to focus on building up my savings or paying off high interest rate credit card debt?

5 - Can you recommend a guaranteed rate of return over 4% with a term of 12 months?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Dark Arts Tequila Barrel Aged Stout by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Purging Pennies, Financial Fights & Phantom Wealth #945

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: biltong on a budget, culling of coins, financial fights, trad money, BTC is for kids, college level personal finance, phantom wealth, manifesting more money, improvident internet, squandering streaming, more taxes for more internet, and taking the long view on taxes.

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Tariffs, DOGE, and Your Money w/ Noahpinion #944

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

We’re not burying the lede on this episode- we’re talking about the most pressing policies in government today and how they’re likely to impact our personal finances! One of the benefits of hosting your own podcast is that you have the opportunity to speak with some amazing folks who are much smarter than you- and that is definitely the case today. We’re joined by economist Noah Smith, author of the substack Noahpinion where he takes big complex economic ideas, and makes them easier to understand for the common folk like us! This is a change of pace because we tend to focus more on microeconomic factors… that being said, it’s good to take a step back and look at the big picture and to understand what’s going on with the water that we’re all swimming in, to reference David Foster Wallace. Given all that’s been going on lately with tariffs, this is a more timely episode, but we’re also pumped to get into declining birth rates, government spending, the state of the overall economy, how effective DOGE will be, the three key technologies of our day, and plenty more.

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During this episode we enjoyed a Melvin by Freak Folk Bier! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Parlaying Real Estate Equity into Stocks, FIRE Recommendations, & Unloading a Car with a Loan #943

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I sell a rental property in order to make higher returns in the stock market?

2 - What FIRE books would you recommend as I’m interested in early retirement?

3 - How would you recommend paying for an expensive medical procedure for my dog?

4 - Do you recommend investing via crowdfunding platform Arrived?

5 - Does it make sense to pay off our car loan before attempting to sell it?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Bourbon Barrel Drafty Kilt by Monday Night Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Trump’s Tariff Tussle, Paying Egg-stra, & Don’t Buy the Dip! #942

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: cheap Valentines tips, Trump’s tariff tussle, home construction and renovation costs, end of the CFPB, paying eggs-stra, WaHo surcharges, shell shocked, don’t buy the dip, a wealth of common sense, Vanguard cutting fees, ESG funds are out, Robinhood betting, and gaming your kids credit scores.

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The Tao of Warren Buffett w/ David Clark #941

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

You don’t need to be a personal finance and investing nerd to know that Warren Buffett is the GOAT. When it comes to investing, he’s the greatest of all time. Which is why we’re so pumped to be speaking with David Clark about The New Tao of Warren Buffett that he co-authored with Mary Buffett, which is a collection of some of the wisdom that Warren has dispensed over his lifetime. David is a renowned author and expert on the investment strategies of Warren Buffett and he’s known for making Buffett's complex strategies accessible to investors of all levels. And having been a friend of the Buffett family for decades, David has some unique insights into Warren’s life that we’re excited to share and get into during this conversation!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Space Broccoli by Other Half Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Covering Expensive Childcare, Fidelity Fees, & Frugal or Cheap Car Tires #940

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - What investments should we deprioritize in order to afford expensive childcare?

2 - Where should I take my HSA now that I’m experiencing higher fees with Fidelity?

3 - Is it frugal or cheap to go with a more generic tire for my car as opposed to the name brands I’ve heard of?

4 - Should I be concerned with CapitalOne if I bank with them?

5 - How much should the tooth fairy pay per tooth in order for kids to learn about investing?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Dark Arts Rum Barrel Aged by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Cheap Chinese AI, Free Tax Filing, & Outpacing Inflation #939

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: credit card relegation, cheap Chinese AI, portfolio flipping, lab-grown savings, free tax filing, reporting side hustle income, tax refund points, digital shoplifting, outpacing inflation, minimum payment purgatory, the future of electric vehicles, reasonable EV leases, and Subaru security slips.

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Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Outside of the Box Passive Income Ideas w/ Mr. Passive #938

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Vending machines are the future! That’s what Mr. Passive says, and by the way, we’re not talking about your grandpa’s vending machines full of chips and Cokes. Instead, think of eggs, some olive oil, whatever items you might be looking for in a pinch. We’re joined by Mike Hoffmann who is better known as Mr. Passive, and he is on a mission to teach folks how to generate passive sources of income with minimal hands-on effort. Just imagine… automatic recurring deposits just showing up in your inbox… that’s the dream! But of course it does take some work. Listen as we discuss how much time it takes, how Mike became a vendingpreneur, how the newest vending machines work, how much they cost, the best locations for vending machines, how much you can make, and more!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Ghost Prime by Parish Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Diversifying to FI, Upside Down on an RV, & Extreme Lengths to Buy a Home #937

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Is a stocks only portfolio diversified enough for financial independence or do I need to include real estate?

2 - What’s the best way to get rid of an RV that I’m upside down on?

3 - Where should I park cash that I’m saving up for a down payment, or should I invest those funds?

4 - For my credit score: is credit utilization calculated on each individual card or the total credit available across all of my cards?

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During this episode we enjoyed an Ash by Humble Forager! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Trump 2.0, Ghost Jobs, & Insufficient Savings #936

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: NO to the cash-out refi, Trump 2.0 and your money, Melania coin, feds returning to the office, insufficient savings, ghost jobs, WFH job scammers, TOYS are a scam, why the rise of touchscreen kiosks, everyone is tipping less, ballooning escrow accounts, & apartment rents on the decline.

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The Art of the Sabbatical w/ Cady North #935

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

When most folks hear the word “sabbatical”, their mind probably goes to a professor with a tweed jacket, who has earned tenure at a prestigious university, who is going to use that time to write a book. Or maybe your values are more Judeo-Christian based and so you think of a period of rest after 7 years. And while that might be accurate for some folks, our guest today would say that sabbaticals don’t have to be that serious or formal. But on the other hand, they’re not just an extended vacation where you’re sipping pina coladas on the beach! We’re joined by investment advisor Cady North who is the author of “The Art of the Sabbatical” and she’s going to share why taking a sabbatical might be more of a reality for everyone listening. She shares why work breaks are more necessary in our modern economy, what a sabbatical is and isn’t, how to approach the idea with a spouse or partner, gathering the social support around you ahead of the decision, parlaying the benefits when you return to your job, a simple formula for being able to take a sabbatical every 5 years, and much more today!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Ticker Shock by Other Half Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Supercharging Retirement as a Freelancer, HSA for Medical vs Retirement, & “Investing” in Your Primary Residence #934

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - How do you financially justify investing more in your house as opposed to investing in the stock market?

2 - Is it time for me to shift to more conservative investments within my 8th grader’s 529 Account?

3 - With a big dental bill coming up, should I use funds from my taxable brokerage or from my Health Savings Account?

4 - Being self employed, how can I ramp up my retirement savings with a sweet one year contract coming up?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Reciprocal by Bissell Brothers! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Awful AI Advice, Booming BNPL, & Frittering on Fitness #933

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: vetted LA wildfire charities, awful AI advice, booming BNPL, finding happiness in all the wrong ways, spending to please others, crack cocaine of the stock market, sports gambling, unserious CFPB, Skechers kicking butt, the rise of store brands, and frittering away on fitness.

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CRUSH Your Money Goals w/ Bernadette Joy #932

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

SMART goals are out, CRUSH money goals are in! We’re joined today by expert money coach Bernadette Joy, who we met for the first time last year at the nerdy personal finance and media conference that we attended. We actually gave a talk, while Bernadette was the host for the entire conference, and there may not be anyone else on earth with as much personal finance enthusiasm as Bernadette. She’s a breath of fresh air to the world of personal finance and is featured monthly in Forbes, CNBC, and CNET. Her new book, Crush Your Money Goals, came out last month and we were stoked to discuss a number of topics like clawing out of $300,000 of debt, scaling side hustles into legit businesses, why Bernadette hates the term “emergency fund”, her $1 Rule, a new take on the Shabbat, and plenty more!

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Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Asahi Super Dry! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Sahm Rule Recession Indicator, New App Gives Kids IRAs, & Paying for Big One-Time Expenses #931

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - How should the Sahm Rule Recession Indicator impact my investing?

2 - Why would my financial advisor recommend against going with a Roth IRA?

3 - Does it make sense to go with the new Halfmore app to set up a retirement account for my kids?

4 - Should I use an inherited retirement account to pay for some big upcoming expenses?

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During this episode we switched it up and enjoyed some quality coffee- Play Nice roasted by Methodical Coffee. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Credit Score Supremacy, Avoiding Alts, & Points in Purgatory #930

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: low cost insulation, best months to buy new and used cars, thousand dollar car payments, bougie extra bedrooms, what medical debt?, credit score supremacy, avoiding alts, risky business, points purgatory, credit card defaults, and gift card spillage.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fulfillment Over FIRE w/ Dr. Jordan Grumet #929

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to pursue joy and purpose in your life? Is it some sort of never-ending scavenger hunt, where we’re hoping to find something that is just out of reach, hidden behind the next corner? Or is it something that we’re able to achieve because it’s something that we’ve created? Our guest today would argue that it’s more of the latter! We’re joined by our friend Dr. Jordan Grumet to talk less about the what and the how behind personal finance, and more about the why, and how our money is one of many tools that will allow us to achieve our individual sense of purpose. His new book, The Purpose Code, delves into these amorphous topics in a way that allows readers to have clarity, understanding, and even a to-do list as Jordan prescribes some simple actions that we can take now that will allow us to surely but steadily find fulfillment. Listen as we discuss the difference between “Big P” purpose vs “little p” purpose, the intersection of happiness and money, one of the foremost markers of a happy life, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Coffee Lager by Steel Hands Brewing – a massive thanks to Mary S. for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - When to Ditch an Old Car, Dropping Escrow, & Investing via an ESOP #928

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

1 - When is it finally time to ditch an old car and upgrade?

2 - Is it frugal or cheap to live off of only my wife’s income, in order for our son to qualify for more financial aid?

3 - Should I drop the escrow on my mortgage and take care of taxes and insurance myself?

4 - Buying silver at Costco… smart?

5 - Is it a good investment to go with an ESOP to buy Walmart stock?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Super Volcano Sauce by Aslin Beer Co! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - AI Investing Advice, Binge Shopping, & Hating on Honey #927

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: trad hobbies, getting fit on the cheap, gig economy update, Social Security reliance, accessible financial advisors, AI stock tips, binge shopping, top 2025 money goals, hating on Honey, and going after Zelle.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budgeting Like A Beast w/ Jesse Mecham (Bestie) #926

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

We’re going all-in today on budgeting with our special guest Jesse Mecham! There are a number of folks listening who might recognize his name, but I’m guessing even more folks are familiar with the company he started back in 2003 while he was still in college: You Need A Budget, or YNAB as it’s commonly known. Millions of individuals have used YNAB to get on a budget which has allowed them to achieve their life-changing financial goals. Whether that’s simply paying off debt or the complicated endeavor of getting on the same page as their partner. Jesse has likely thought more about budgeting over the past 20 years than anyone else out there, so we’re excited to talk with him about all the things that he’s learned over the years. Listen as we discuss why you need a budget in the first place, Jesse’s 4 rules of budgeting, how often you should spend on your budget every month, his approach to credit cards and debt, plus much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Igneous IPA by Hutton & Smith! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Festivus 2024: Celebrating Listener Money Wins #925

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

For a year that was dominated by headlines of destructive hurricanes, cyberattacks, and political uncertainty, we think it’s more important than ever to highlight some of the good things that happened – and no, we’re not talking about Joel’s Costco rebate check! Not only do we get to share our personal financial wins from 2024, but an incredible number of How To Money listeners have achieved major milestones with their money this year. Creating this episode always fires us up, and we hope it does the same for you! From hanging onto an old 4Runner to keep costs in check, to flying to Hawaii four times for free with a Southwest Companion Pass, and maxing out a 401k for the first time, all the way to hitting millionaire status and getting dentures to save! The stories we’ve heard are nothing short of inspiring and we hope today’s episode not only helps you celebrate these wins but sparks ideas and provides some motivation for some epic financial moves in 2025. Here’s to learning from each other, crushing goals, and making it happen together!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Falling Star by Monday Night Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Foolproof Plan to Ditch Debt (Bestie) #924

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Sitting on your butt is killing you! According to the Heart Foundation, folks who sit the most are 90% more susceptible to dying from cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. And while taking a load off and having a seat isn’t going to immediately harm you, the accumulation of years and decades of a more sedentary lifestyle could lead to an earlier death! And we feel similarly when it comes to consumer debt. Paying a little interest this month isn’t going to completely wreck your financial future, but it’s a real problem if it becomes a permanent fixture in your life. Not to mention the fact that credit card interest rates are rising and millions of Americans made their holiday purchases with money they don’t have. Listen as we discuss the straightforward steps to create a foolproof plan, where we land on the debt snowball vs debt avalanche approach, as well as some additional helpful tips that will allow you to ditch debt for good.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Perpetual Composition by Southern Grist Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pursuing Happiness In All the Wrong Ways (Bestie) #923

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

We hope that you’re having a wonderful holiday season. And if you celebrate Christmas, or any holiday that involves the exchange of gifts- isn’t it so much fun giving presents and seeing the faces of your loved ones light up? And while that might be the case on Christmas morning, it’s a different story later in the day for many adults and kiddos alike. There’s frequently a post present letdown that many of us experience. Either there was something we wanted that we didn’t get, or the gifts that we did receive aren’t quite as awesome as expected. They don’t make us happy and we easily fall into the trap of pursuing happiness in all the wrong ways. Of course on the surface this is something that you already know, but while many of us would say that we agree with this sentiment, we actually end up living our lives in contradictory ways. In this episode we detail some of the different ways that we’re chasing after happiness, but then we discuss two different types of happiness and how we can make sure that we’re pursuing the kind that will last.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Mile High Salute by Mutation Brewing- a big thanks to Jack and our friends there at the brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mom & Dad, We Need to Talk w/ Cameron Huddleston (Bestie) #922

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Talking with your parents about their finances might prove to be a very difficult conversation- discussing religion and politics may even seem like a walk in the park compared to breaching the topics of retirement, long term care, and wills. Which is why we’re so thankful to have Cameron Huddleston join us to explain how we can go about having these essential conversations with our parents. She has recently published her book “Mom and Dad, We Need to Talk” and she is here to walk us through initiating and leading these conversations with our parents about their finances. Thank you, Cameron, for breaking this down for us and encouraging us to get started!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Fairy Nectar by Kros Strain Brewing Co- a big thanks to Joey in Omaha for donating this beer to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Travel Trade-offs, Memecoin Madness, & Housing Inventory Increases #921

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Costco Instacart HACK, stockpiling before the tariffs, travel trade-offs, working from HELM, international stock exposure, fake T-Mobile fees, axed overdraft fees, memecoin madness, homebuyer closing scams, Fidelity insights, positive downstream effects of homeownership, & housing inventory spikes.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Childfree Guide to Money w/ Dr. Jay Zigmont #920

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Imagine this: you wake up after a restful night’s sleep, not to the crash of toys in the playroom, but to the soft chime of your alarm or maybe even sunlight streaming through your window. You ease into your morning by getting ready for a run or some work without negotiating with kids over what they can or can’t wear to school. You enjoy a delicious breakfast, again, without an argument with any kids. For us, this scenario feels like a distant dream. As our listeners know, our homes are filled with the beautiful chaos of kids, and we wouldn’t have it any other way! But not everyone wants that kind of life. Some folks genuinely prefer the peace and quiet of a child-free lifestyle which is totally fine! However, our guest today argues that life without kids comes with its own unique financial challenges. Joining us is Dr. Jay Zigmont, founder and CEO of Childfree Wealth. Jay is a flat-fee fiduciary who specializes in helping those without children navigate their distinct financial priorities and goals. Today, we’ll dive into his insights and explore what financial planning looks like for people living a child-free life. Have a listen!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Bell’s Christmas Ale! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Haggling Hangups, Actually Investing an HSA, & Curbing Retirement Investing #919

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - I feel awkward about haggling with locals while on an expensive cruise- help!

2 - Should I really invest my HSA dollars? I’ve heard that the fees make it prohibitively expensive.

3 - My friend says that what my portfolio is missing is cash value life insurance. True or false?

4 - How do I know if I’ve saved enough for retirement and can slow down my investments?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Pecan Pie Porter by Clown Shoes! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Exorbitant EV Charging, Interminable Trading, & Forced to Sell #918

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: exorbitant EV charging, overrated walkable neighborhoods, ruined coffee crop, more expensive YouTube TV, tinkering for worse returns, interminable trading, Health Investing Accounts, retiring with credit card debt, terrible Ticketmaster, being forced to sell, cooling home prices, shopping malls to the rescue, & transforming student loans into 401(k)s.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buy What You Love Without Going Broke w/ Frugal Friends Jen & Jill #917

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Today’s episode offers a peek into what your favorite personal finance podcast might be like, if only it was hosted by two ladies! Jen Smith and Jill Sirianni are hosts of the Frugal Friends podcast which is all about embracing a more intentional and frugal lifestyle… but not THAT kind of frugal. They challenge the idea that frugality is about deprivation and instead highlight how it can empower you to achieve financial independence while living a life filled with joy and purpose. Jen and Jill drive this point home in their new book, Buy What You Love Without Going Broke, which is exactly what we’re talking about today- spending money! We cover the ways that we’re doing it wrong, how to spend money in a healthy values-driven way, and strategies to support those new habits!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Ten Fidy by Oskar Blues! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Gold in Times of Unrest, Potential Student Loan Repayment Scams, and Weak Robo-Advisor Returns #916

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - My grandparents set me up with an UTMA… what should I do with that money?

2 - Are the student loan repayment calls I’m receiving, legit?

3 - I’ve realized paltry returns from my Betterment account… is it time to cut bait?

4 - What’s a good savings challenge to jumpstart my investing in the new year?

5 - Should unrest in the US push me to invest in gold?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Quad by Monday Night Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Keen on Cash, AI Granny, & Timing Incoming Tariffs #915

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: car loan deferment ripoff, keen on cash, speedy deliveries, porch pirate insurance, hoarders vs minimalists, AI granny, billions in airline seat fees, timing of tariffs, DIY car repairs, launchpad jobs, and interning your way to the top.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No Budget Needed w/ Dana Miranda #914

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

For this episode we might need to adopt a new, honorary name for our podcast – maybe How NOT to Money since this is going to feel at odds with what we typically discuss here on the show! And that’s because ‘budgeting’ is almost synonymous with ‘building wealth’ and living the kind of life you want, but our guest today is offering an alternative to traditional personal finance advice in favor of empowering and flexible strategies. We’re joined by Dana Miranda, author of the new book “You Don’t Need A Budget” which comes out later this month. Dana is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance and is a contributor to the NYT, The Penny Hoarder, and The Motley Fool just to name a few. She is all about building a financial life that works for you as an individual – she’s flipping the personal finance script, ditching the budget, and reimagining your relationship to money entirely, enjoy!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Silent Accord by Six Bridges! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Home Security Cost Benefit Analysis, Advantages to Financing a Car, and 529 Impacts on Financial Aid #913

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - How do I convince my in-laws that they’re wasting money by financing a car when they can pay cash?

2 - What kind of impact will saving in a 529 account have on my son’s ability to score financial aid?

3 - Should I choose a state provided pension or go with an Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)?

4 - Is there a way to run a cost benefit analysis on a home security system?

5 - Where should I turn for a solo 401k?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Lizard King by Pipeworks Brewing Co! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Brick n Mortar Shopping, Thermostat Tug of War, & Too Many Toys #912

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Joel’s price match win, egregious store card rates, brick & mortar shopping, physical catalog resurgence, generous happy people, Robinhood x Daffy, thermostat tug of war, too many toys, toilet scrubbing over bank account peeking, student loan servicer mess, Amazon Music audiobooks, & unassuming entrepreneurship hubs.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fixing Your Broken Financial Behavior w/ Dan Egan #911

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Why aren’t there more millionaires? The basic formula is straightforward: spend less than you earn and invest the surplus in low-cost, diversified index funds. It’s not an exaggeration to say that if you stick to these simple steps, you could be sitting on millions by the time you retire. It’s truly that simple – but simplicity doesn’t always mean it’s easy. As it turns out, the biggest obstacle to building wealth isn’t external factors, it’s us. We are often our own worst enemies when it comes to achieving financial success – or any other goals in life. To help us unpack this idea, we’re joined by behavioral scientist Dan Egan. Dan is the Director of Behavioral Finance and Investing at Betterment, and today we’ll dive into how human psychology shapes our financial decisions, the first steps to correcting money mistakes, the power of setting meaningful goals, managing expectations, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Dale’s Pale Ale by Oskar Blues! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Moving Beyond the S&P, Investing for a Down Payment, & Lump Sum Number Crunching #910

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Can you help me crunch the numbers to determine: lump sum or a monthly pension?

2 - How should I invest down payment money for a home purchase?

3 - Should my relative consider annuities for a large inheritance?

4 - Did I invest in the S&P 500 correctly?

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Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
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During this episode we enjoyed a Breakfast Ante Meridiem by Monday Night Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Auto-IRAs, Travel Tuesday, & Sloppy Seconds #909

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: car stereo hacks, auto IRAs, abysmal hedge fund returns, Travel Tuesday, unlimited vacation clubs, gave up the Spirit, skiplagging to save, sports betting problems, no thanks Tropicana, retail return hassle, deferred interest on store cards, and the rise of second hand gifting.

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Giving Done Right w/ Phil Buchanan #908

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Isn’t there a universal metric we can use in order to compare one charity to another? Not according to our guest today who says that we have to use the head AND the heart to determine what organizations we’re going to support. And when it comes to our motivation to give, I think it could be easy to dismiss our own efforts as just a tiny drop in the bucket. Maybe you’re giving when prompted at the checkout register, so it’s five bucks on occasion. Or maybe you are a little more disciplined or systematic about it and you give away a certain percentage of your income – but then you make recurring donations that you basically forget about. Out of sight, out of mind… but that’s not how we want you to give away your money. We want you to get the most bang for your buck! And here to help us to learn how to do that is Phil Buchanan, the president of the Center for Effective Philanthropy. He’s also the author of the book, Giving Done Right, where he emphasizes the importance of thoughtful and mission-driven giving. He has a podcast by the same name and he’s all about providing data-driven insights to help us maximize our personal impact. We talk about the limitations of effective altruism, focusing on local communities, the historical impact of philanthropy, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Farina by Halfway Crooks Beer! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - First-Time Landlording, New Car w/ Severance Pay, & Roth 401k for Early Retirees #907

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - What’s the best no-restrictions account where I can save money for my baby for any purpose?

2 - How do I tap funds in my Roth 401k if I’m looking to retire early?

3 - Do I need a special type of insurance as a first-time landlord and where should I look for a good leas?

4 - I’d like to use my severance to buy a used car, but I’m considering a new car since it’s not that much more…

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Turbodog by Abita Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Content to Rent, Gift Card Caution, & Bitcoin Bulls #906

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: direct home sales, content to rent, defund the HOA, affordable manufactured homes, mi casa es su casa, $50 million in TGI Friday bucks, 1900% in BTC gains, flood-damaged cars, and ripped jeans for a premium.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Real Estate Investing in a Murky Market w/ Dave Meyer #905

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Real estate investing is a topic that we don’t spend nearly as much time discussing compared to the early days of the podcast. And even then we were both less enthusiastic about it compared to a decade ago! Back before we started the podcast it was pretty much all that we talked about but does it make sense to continue investing in real estate today? Well our guest thinks so! We’re joined by long-time real estate investor Dave Meyer. Dave is the Head of Real Estate at BiggerPockets which is a site and online community that provides resources and education for investing in real estate. We discuss the current state of the housing market, where Dave thinks it’s headed, a breakdown of his portfolio, why he thinks there's opportunity to be had with value-add real estate, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Attention Please by Bearded Iris! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - IRA Raiding for a Down Payment, Study Abroad: PAID, & Maintaining an 826 Credit Score #904

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - We want to tap our retirement accounts early to be able to fund a bigger down payment, is that ok?

2 - Taking Social Security… what strategy should I employ?

3 - How should my daughter consider paying for a study abroad program?

4 - Is it frugal or cheap to skip the purchase in a used bookstore and add it to my audiobook queue instead?

5 - What about canceling old credit cards while I have an 826 credit score?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Juice Quest by Scofflaw Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Fortunate Flyers, Upgrade Underwhelm, & Feckless Finfluencers #903

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: political investing, financial overconfidence, supersized screens, upgrade underwhelm, open banking rules, fortunate flyers, feckless finfluencers, fatter 401k contributions, job hopping not paying off, undergrad job scams, & retiring early-ish.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The (High) Cost of Kids w/ Emily Oster #902

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Here on the podcast we don’t shy away from the fact that we’re big fans of having kids- Joel has three, Matt has four. But that is not typical here in the United States where the average is 1.6 births per woman… but why? We think the costly nature of having kids is one of the reasons. Depending on which study you’re looking at and the cost of living cited, we’ve seen upwards of $400,000 per kid! But even still, should it be all about the numbers? Should that data drive all of our decisions? Luckily we’re joined by someone who is a parent and knows all about the data- Emily Oster. Emily is a professor of economics at Brown University, the author of books like Expecting Better, Cribsheet, and Family Firm, and now host of the new podcast Raising Parents. And while you might know her as the lady who says it’s ok to have wine and coffee in moderation while pregnant, or as the health economist who shared unpopular opinions on Covid policies during the pandemic, we’re excited to share our conversation that’s all about our money and kids: making career breaks and staying home with the kids, why we need to approach family decisions the way a business would, Emily’s take on allowances, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Ayinger Oktober Fest-Marzen! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - WTD Rising Car Insurance, Tackling the Rent vs Buy Dilemma, & Socking Away Money for Kids #901

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - What can I do about my sky high car insurance premiums without getting penalized for shopping around?

2 - Is it possible to be in good financial shape, without owning my own home?

3 - How much time should I spend shopping around for the absolute cheapest utilities?

4 - Should I open an IRA for my new baby if I’m wanting to help them out financially off in the future?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Stranger Danger by Monday Night Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Paltry Predictions, Working for Wealth, & Black Friday Unfurled #900

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Costco/Halloween, paltry market predictions, generational investing, political odds markets, working for wealth, home equity temptations, hottest items on wedding registries, underpowered homeowner policies, $20k family auto insurance, Black Friday unfurled, and Amazon vs Walmart.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Definitive Travel Rewards Episode w/ Chris Hutchins #899

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

When it makes sense to buy points, sites that make redeeming your points a breeze, how he thinks about points deflation… these are just a few of the topics we cover with our friend Chris Hutchins. If you’re wondering, like we were, whether or not travel hacking is still worth the hassle then this is the episode for you. And Chris covers a range of topics on his podcast, All The Hacks, like ways to gain confidence, practical steps to strengthen relationships, and anti-aging with his diverse guests. Chris was a co-founder of Milk which was acquired by Google, then he was the founder and CEO of Grove which was subsequently acquired by Wealthfront- he’s quite the renaissance man, he loves technology and optimizing virtually everything, and we get into a variety of topics today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Flash Cat by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - High Yield CHECKING Accounts, Avoiding Capital Gains with Vet School, & Discriminatory 401k Accounts! #898

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How necessary are high yield checking accounts?

2 - What is a way that I can use my investments to pay for veterinarian school, without paying capital gains tax?

3 - How should I invest for retirement after my 401k failed non-discrimination testing?

4 - Is it worth continuing to pay for short and long term disability insurance?

5 - Frugal or Cheap: skipping Coinstar and going straight to a register?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kobzar 2022 by Big Spruce Brewing – a big thanks to our good buddy Andrew L for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Fitness Inflation, Feasting for Less, & Debt Derailment #897

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: why you probably need to life insurance ladder (layer), house of mou$e, fitness inflation, high cost of eating out, feasting for less, why you should love Spirit Airlines, privacy concerns, Canadian carpenter makes bank, farewell savings rates, certified pre-owned clothes, Boomer Stuff Avalanche, STEM degrees, debt derailment, and blue collar millionaires.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harsh But Helpful Money Truths w/ Dr. Brad Klontz & Adrian Brambila #896

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

“Broke is temporary, but an unexamined poor mindset can be permanent.” As we discuss with our guests today, your mindset makes all the difference and your finances are no exception. And speaking of guests, one is a CFP financial psychologist and the other is a former professional dancer for T-Pain, an unlikely pairing! Dr. Brad Klontz and Adrian Brambila are the co-authors of the new book “Start Thinking Rich: 21 Harsh Truths to Take You from Broke to Financial Freedom”. This book is all about delivering actionable solutions to increase and diversify income, to help you save what you make, and to discover ways to grow your money in your sleep. Externalizing your problems, taking a victim mentality, and constantly looking to others to provide for you are the exact wrong behaviors and the embodiment of an unhealthy mindset that will keep you from attaining your goals. Listen as we discuss some of their harsh truths like getting rid of poor friends, blaming yourself if you’re poor as an adult, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Jewel City by Brewyard Beer Co – a big thanks to Better Joel, JO, 5am Joel for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Supporting a Financially Struggling Friend, Ditching and Upgrading a Car, & Purchasing Long Term Care Insurance #895

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What’s the best way to support a friend in the midst of a financial meltdown?

2 - Given the expensive repairs I’ve made on my car, should I sell it and upgrade?

3 - How do I afford long term care insurance if I retire early?

4 - My husband wants to open a new joint bank account at a big local brick and mortar – how do I convince him otherwise?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Ube Macapuno Delight by Brewyard Beer Co – a big thanks to Better Joel, JO, 5am Joel for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Longer Loans, Prepaying Principal, & Higher Heating Bills #894

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: click to cancel, better business policies, longer loans, upside down autos, AI generated podcasts, Flyhomes, luxury goods inverted supply/demand, pricey lotto tickets, would you tattoo?, cloudy forecast for real estate in the sunshine state, prepaying principal, and higher heating bills.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Soul of Wealth w/ Daniel Crosby #893

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

“Humankind finds itself at a strange crossroads; we know intuitively that true wealth – real wealth, soulful wealth – is about far more than mere money. Yet, far too often, we act as though money is an end unto itself, sacrificing some of the richest parts of our lives in its pursuit.” Quoted directly from Dr. Daniel Crosby’s new book, The Soul of Wealth. Daniel is making a rare, second appearance here on the podcast because when you write multiple fantastic books on investing and personal finance, we’re going to want to have you back on! He’s a psychologist, the Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion Advisor Solutions, and author of many thought-provoking books that are more than just “investing guides.” Listen as we have a great conversation about finding balance between financial wealth and true wealth, all in pursuit of living a good life!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Beach Slap by Brewyard Beer Co – a big thanks to Better Joel, JO, 5am Joel for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Underrated Ways to Scrimp and Save, the Best Way to Invest $60k, and Roth Conversion Tax Brackets #892

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How can I pay less in taxes while making a big Roth IRA conversion?

2 - Should I dollar cost average over 6 to 12 months, or should I simply invest it all at once?

3 - After paying off a ton of student loans, how can I get caught up on my retirement savings?

4 - What are some underrated ways to scrimp and save for a home down payment?

5 - Is there a passive investing bubble and should I hedge my investments?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kanpai Krisp by Brewyard Beer Co – a big thanks to Better Joel, JO, 5am Joel for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Dumb Debit, Asinine Arbitration, & Eccentric Economic Expectations #891

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: let’s go Tigers!, dumb debit, new credit card fees, targeted refund checks, everyone’s an entrepreneur, new healthcare stipends, job switchers retiring with less, asinine arbitration, Wall Street landlords, flood insurance, FEMA housing assistance, $ talk, and eccentric economic expectations.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taxes Rule!... Your Life w/ Scott Hodge #890

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The reason there are so many hard seltzers on the market, the type of car you’re looking to buy, even why women wear children’s clothing – our guest today is going to share why it is in fact TAXES that are behind nearly every aspect of our lives. We’re doing a deep dive as to how taxes tend to direct our behavior and decision making in ways that most folks don’t realize, and those are just a few of the examples that we discuss today. We’re joined today by Scott Hodge who has over 35 years of tax policy experience. More recently he led the Tax Foundation, a Washington DC based think-tank, for over two decades. And today we’re going to discuss his recently published book, Taxocracy which is full of examples of how misguided tax policy has led to the world we live in today. Most people think of taxes as an annoying aspect of life, but our conversation today reframes it as another powerful invisible hand at work in the market!

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During this episode we enjoyed a United by Pure Project Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Hot Stock Tips, Funding a Down Payment via HELOC, & Making the Most of a Home Repair #889

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What are the tax implications as I start to invest funds for my newborn nephew?

2 - Is it too risky to use a HELOC for an investment property down payment?

3 - How can I rebalance my portfolio away from stocks in the most tax-efficient way possible?

4 - Who should I follow for the best stock tips?

5 - Does it make sense to use a credit card for some expensive home repairs I have coming up?

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During this episode we enjoyed an Up Stream by Fremont Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Holiday Travel, Fintech Faux Pas, & A Big Student Loan Shift #888

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Helene relief, mega backdoor Roth, dockworkers strike against automation, time to book holiday travel, Southwest switcheroo, online passport renewals, Robinhood hidden fees, Gen Z out-investing Boomers, student loan shifts, fintech faux pas, bustling brick and mortar branches, and political economic malpractice.

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How To Retire w/ Christine Benz #887

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Ok, here us out: retirement is a topic that we talk about all the time here at How To Money, but simultaneously we probably don’t talk about it nearly enough! How is that possible you might ask? Well, we are oftentimes discussing retirement through the lens of investing – spending less and cutting costs so you can invest more… for retirement, maxing out your Roth IRA… for retirement! We’re typically approaching retirement from our personal perspective and it’s no surprise to anyone that we’re not actually retired. We still *think* we’re young bucks even though we’re arguably in mid-life, but because of that we might not cover the nuts and bolts that go into actually retiring, as often as maybe we should. We definitely don’t do it as well as Christine Benz which is just one of the reasons we’re pumped to have her join us today. Christine is a long-time contributor to Morningstar, the fantastic investment research site that we often reference here on the pod. Specifically, she’s the director of personal finance for Morningstar as well as author of the new book, “How to Retire: 20 lessons for a happy, successful, and wealthy retirement.” We get into Chrinstine’s investing shortcomings, how the Morningstar rating system has evolved over the years, how the definition of retirement is also evolving, the value of work, the impact of retirement on relationships, and more!

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Strangest of Places by Pure Project! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Unloading a Covid Car, From Fiancé to Finance, & WTD with Too Much $ in a 401k #886

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What are some pros and cons of combining our finances as newlyweds?

2 - How much more should I be willing to pay for health insurance if it means I can contribute to an HSA?

3 - Should I consider extra money over the limit in my 401k as an emergency fund or as retirement savings?

4 - I purchased an expensive car during the pandemic at 5%. I’m currently paying extra on it but should I unload it completely?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Head Full of Dynomite by Fremont Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Our Attempt to Eliminate or Embrace Lifestyle Creep w/ Jordan Grumet #885

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We have a very special episode for you this Friday as we were interviewed by our friend Jordan Grumet for his podcast Earn & Invest! Jordan is a friend of ours and we’ve had extensive conversations about personal finances but we always end up finding ourselves talking about life fulfillment and ultimate happiness. And that’s exactly what happened during this episode with Jordan as he asked us about our own personal spending, how we’ve seen our expenses swell, whether we should love or leave lifestyle creep, and plenty more during today’s episode!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money-Smart Solopreneurs w/ Laura Adams #884

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This is the episode to motivate you to quit your 9-5 and start your own business, OR, to inspire you to use the skills you already have at your current job to moonlight on the side! Entrepreneurship – it’s not all that hard… right?! You might have a great idea, or you’ve stumbled upon a unique niche that you can step into, so you see an opportunity! But then you start thinking it through and some major questions start bubbling up to the surface, like how do you go about exiting your day job, or how do you know if you have enough work on the side to go all in? What about giving up W2 benefits? Or what about getting organized and paying taxes? These are questions that all would-be solopreneurs need to ask themselves, but luckily we’re joined today by the author of the Money-Smart Solopreneur, Laura Adams. Laura is actually the author of nine books, she’s the host of the Money Girl podcast, and by the end of this episode, we hope you’ll be empowered to hang your own shingle. She shares how she transitioned to self-employment, how to invest even more when you’re a solopreneur, ways to determine if you’re undercharging clients, mistakes that budding small businesses make, and more!

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Head High by Kane Brewing – a huge thank you to Michael G for sending this extra delicious beer our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - 2 Fund Investing Strategy, 529 Plans for Current Educational Expenses, & Fees for Breaking a Lease Early #883

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I use a 529 account to fund some immediate private education costs that we have?

2 - Why doesn’t Chase allow me to use my credit card to pay off a Buy Now Pay Later purchase?

3 - Do you guys follow the 2 funds for life approach to investing?

4 - How should I discuss a penalty my tenants are incurring for breaking their lease early?

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Hand Warmers by Carton Brewing – a big thanks to Michael G for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Rate Reductions, Rich Renters, & Costly Coffee #882

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: rock the vote, the long-awaited Fed rate cut, eliminating bad debt, rich renters, 15 year mortgages, 529 milestones, bribing kids to read, who keeps the $70,000 engagement ring, expensive therapy, dumbphones and work-life balance, returning to the office, the new Amazon Saver line, and costly coffee.

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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Presidential Money Lessons w/ Megan Gorman #881

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Wondering who you should vote for? Well we’re finally going to share our presidential recommendations!... Psych. And we’re actually not even going to get into recent presidential money stories like tax returns or whether candidates own any stocks or other shady business deals. In fact, we’re going to completely avoid the mud-slinging landscape that we find ourselves in today, and instead, we’re going to focus on personal finance, which is what we do best! And fortunately for us we’re joined by author Megan Gorman. Megan is a history buff, she began her career at Goldman Sachs, and then founded her own firm specializing in tax and financial planning for high-net-worth individuals. She’s a senior contributor to Forbes, is regularly quoted in the Wall Street Journal, and her new book “All the Presidents Money”, looks at the men who governed America in order to learn how they governed their money. For instance Jefferson buying wine on credit, John Adams take on having money conversations with your partner… listen as we cover the financial lessons we can all learn from Lincoln, Truman, JFK, and more during today’s episode!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Jjjuliusss by Treehouse Brewing – a huge thank you to Michael G for sending this extra delicious beer our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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Ask HTM - Smarter Ways to Cut Credit Cards, Unrealized Capital Gains on the 401k, & Jumbo Down Payments #880

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Does it make sense for me to put down 30% or even 50% on a home purchase?

2 - How should we go about cutting credit cards from our life without hurting our credit scores?

3 - Is it possible for multiple investing accounts to undercut the impact of compounding on my overall wealth?

4 - Should I be concerned about an unrealized capital gains tax on my 401k?

5 - Will pay-per-mile car insurance actually save me money?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a For Foolish Thinking by Burial. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Miserable Millionaires, More Shrinkflation, & Dumb Dorm Insurance #879

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: the new most affordable cell phone plan, holiday spending (with a plan), reprobate returns, 401k millionaires, miserable millionaires, specious savings, HELOC piggy banks, election spending sprees, more shrinkflation, dumb dorm insurance, and AirPod Pro hearing aids.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Poverty to Prosperity w/ SheWolfeOfWallStreet #878

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Our guest today is Amanda Wolfe, better known as the SheWolfeOfWallStreet, and we’re grateful to have her share her story with us. Amanda was born into extreme poverty – not “I had a rough month after college so I slept in my car”, but more like “begging for food at gas stations” poverty. Her upbringing had a profound impact on her view of money and caused her to become a self-taught financial educator who has built a community of over 300,000 folks. She now helps countless families create debt payoff strategies, budget, and invest! Amanda is all over Instagram helping individuals achieve financial freedom, but how did she do it? What happened between those two extremes of poverty and prosperity? We’re excited for her to share her story, what she originally believed was a ticket to the middle class, how she learned to actually accumulate wealth, her take on side hustles, her relationship to money today, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Enduring Belief by Treehouse Brewing – a huge thank you to Michael G for sending this beer our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Stiff Credit Card Surcharges, Slashing Student Loan Payments, & Multi Family House Hacking #877

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What steps should I take if I’m interested in buying a multi family home to house hack?

2 - Should I drop an indexed universal life insurance policy that my wife and I hold?

3 - How can I make the most of student loan forgiveness with Public Service Loan Forgiveness?

4 - Are credit card benefits worth the additional charges that some businesses are sticking customers with?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Anything Different From Yesterday by Burial. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Geographic Arbitrage, Purging the Penny, & Looking Back in Anger #876

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: extra rental car charges, an expensive American Dream, geographic arbitrage, anemic 401k, emotional intelligence to boost your salary, unrelenting un-retirees, title lock insurance, skyrocketing car insurance, affordable flights sans luggage fees, cashback con, BTC ATMs, purging the penny, and looking back in anger.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peering Inside the Finance Industry w/ Josh Brown #875

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Our guest today has been called one of the greatest financial writers of all time. And it’s no wonder – Josh Brown started his original blog, The Reformed Broker back in 2008 as he now continues to write over at DowntownJoshBrown.com. And his latest book “You Weren’t Supposed to See That: Secrets Every Investor Should Know” just came out yesterday in which he reveals the hidden truths that make the critical difference between understanding the world and being dangerously naive. Josh co-hosts The Compound and Friends podcast where they discuss current market trends and financial strategies. And in all of his extra time, he is the manager of billions of dollars as CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management. During our conversation today he shares why Gen Z might make more successful investors, taking a “core and explore” investing strategy rather than a simple indexed approach, what direct indexing is all about, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Solid by Burial Beer and Schilling Beer Co! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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Ask HTM - Moving Back In With Parents, An Employer Paid MBA Catch, & Going From Condo to Real Estate Mogul #874

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How can I plan a move back in with my parents that is financially a winner without things getting awkward?

2 - Should I keep my condo as an investment property and rent it out, or should I sell it?

3 - Is it a good idea for my daughter to contribute to her Roth IRA if she’s wanting to buy a house soon?

4 - What should I do if my MBA is getting paid for but my salary isn’t all that great?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Garden of Earthly Delights 2024 by Burial. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Instant E-Bikes, Sputtering Savings, & Aldi’s Ascent #873

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: cutting a car from your life, instant e-bikes, driving something durable, bank fee baloney, rate cut predictions, down payment assistance, wasteful wrinkle creams, unlocked cell phones, community college considerations, higher education value proposition, and the ascent of Aldi.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Investing is Risky. Do it Anyway w/ Jesse Cramer #872

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

“Looking to the long-term upside potential of changing jobs” and “the ways that an overly pessimistic point of view can derail your life”, were just a couple of our big takeaways from talking with our friend Jesse Cramer, from The Best Interest. At his core, Jesse is a financial educator who strives to break down the bigger and nerdier personal finance topics into nuggets of wisdom that all can learn from. In fact, he loves personal finances so much that he stepped away from a lucrative and stable job as an aerospace engineer, in order to join a fiduciary fee-only wealth management firm. We discuss what kind of cojones it takes to start your own business, his alternative to a pure 529 approach to saving for college, how and why an overly conservative portfolio will crush you, what percentage of Social Security he thinks we can count on, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a When We Swung From Rafters And Danced Upon Bars by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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Ask HTM - Money Challenge Wins, Best Options for Creating a Will, and Pricey Real Estate Investing Courses #871

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it worth paying $5,500 for a real estate investing course?

2 - Given the two options, should I choose a lifetime pension or an employer-provided match?

3 - How do I ensure that my younger kids don’t receive their inheritance all at once, were I to unexpectedly pass?

4 - Should I use the money saved from the 100 Envelope Challenge to pay debt, save, or to invest?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Barrel-Aged Old Rasputin XXVI by North Coast Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Presidential Proposals, Content to Rent, & Disney Debtors #870

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: expensive hobbies, presidential proposals, underconsumption core, content to rent, Disney debtors, gambling vs investing, swiping left on that credit sore, data breach fatigue, fake reviews banned, & hollowed out gift cards.

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Best friends out!

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Dirt Cheap Travel w/ Trip of a Lifestyle #869

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Unfortunately a LOT of us view traveling as a luxury. It’s something that isn’t necessary, and so because of that we choose to delay our vacations, which means that we’re actually not all that good at traveling when the time finally comes. It’s like any activity we perform infrequently – we probably suck at it! And to make matters worse, if we see travel as a luxury good, that also means we think it’s necessary to spend a ton of money on it as well, which our guests today have completely disproven. We’re joined by the couple behind Trip of a Lifestyle, Lauren and Steven, who are going to share how they travel on the cheap. Here’s a quick and dirty summation of some of their notable milestones: they embarked on a 45 day road trip after college, then rather than honeymooning in Hawaii for a week they stuck around for six months. Shortly after that they purchased their first home, in cash, all while making less than $100,000 combined! They’ve traveled abroad, visited every national park in the US, and they both retired from their full time jobs at age 29. Listen as we discuss everything from menu hacks while on the road, to bigger discussions around giving yourself “permission” to pursue the kind of life that excites you!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Brew Daddies by Steady Hand and Mutation Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - High Price of Driving a Lemon, Investing a Windfall, & Selling a Home After Just Two Years #868

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Will we wreck our finances if we sell our house after just two years?

2 - How should I invest a recent windfall as someone who hasn’t invested before?

3 - What should I do after my newish car has broken down nine?!

4 - Should I consolidate my high interest rate credit card debt with a HELOC?

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Skelehawk by Parish Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Debt Disasters, Retirement Raiding, & Tax Credit Tips #867

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: concert t-shirts, debt disasters, when you’re afraid to spend, expected student loan forgiveness, college degree decisions, affordable new houses, realtor commissions reduced, retirement raiding, financial fiduciary failures, Venmo vigilance, & green tax credit tips.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saving Big at the Supermarket w/ Consumer Reports' Brian Vines #866

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The results from our survey are in, and it turns out that everyone’s gotta eat!.. Groceries are a universal expense and you likely have felt the increased pressure on your wallet over the past few years. Prices at the supermarket have increased over 26% from 2019 to today according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is a pattern Americans hate to see – paying more for the same old stuff, but luckily we’re joined by Brian Vines who knows all about the rising prices of groceries and how that affects you as a consumer. He’s the deputy editor of special projects at one of our absolute favorite publications, Consumer Reports. And we’re going to talk about how you can pay less at your local bodega, grocery store, warehouse club, or wherever you buy your food. We discuss going digital with your savings, the rise of rebate apps, the double edged sword of convenience, unlikely places to find discounts, and more. Plus we venture into pet insurance as well as affordable dog food!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Free Spirit Tribute No. 6 by Variant Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Car Repair Ripoffs, Roth Contribution Limit Confusion, and House Hacking Litigation Mitigation #865

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is my car mechanic ripping me off? If not, then what’s the best way to manage those expenses?

2 - How much should we set aside for retirement if we’re going to receive a pension?

3 - Is my work sponsored retirement account which happens to be a Roth, inclusive of the overall Roth contribution limits?

4 - Can I take advantage of the Mrs. Murphy exemption in order to steer clear of any potential litigation against me as a landlord?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Champion Ground by Jackie O's! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Warranty Warnings, Rocketing Your Rizz, & Stocks Get Smashed #864

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: waffling on Rivian, huge sales for small cars, warranty warnings, Wells Fargo under fire, rocketing your rizz, money mores, stocks get smashed, dropshippers false bill of goods, & renting your assets by the hour.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minimizing the Retirement Tax Time Bomb w/ Ed Slott #863

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Don’t let short term thinking and a myopic view of your retirement investments derail your financial future! Our guest today puts it succinctly: your IRA is an IOU to the IRS. What would you owe the government now compared to in the future? Will tax brackets return to the heights we saw in the 1940s? Will the government continue to allow Roth IRAs to grow and be drawn upon tax-free? These are just a few of the topics we discuss today. “It would be tough to find anyone who knows more about IRAs than Ed Slott” – and that’s not a quote from us here at How To Money about our guest, but from USA Today. Ed Slott’s company is the nation’s leading source of accurate, timely IRA expertise, and analysis which they provide to financial advisors, institutions, consumers, and media. He’s often quoted in the New York Times, Forbes, Kiplinger, and countless other publications. He’s appeared on virtually all the TV networks, and he's the author of the new book “The Retirement Savings Time Bomb Ticks Louder” which we get into today. Thanks for listening!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Velo by Halfway Crooks Beer! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Investing Strategy for Buying a New Car, Timing Your 401k Rollover, and Buying a House with a Friend #862

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Who actually owns the house if you buy a place with your friend?

2 - Should I dollar cost average back into the market after I roll over my 401k?

3 - Does it make sense to use some equity from the sale of my house to pay off some debts?

4 - How should I invest the money I’m saving up for a new car purchase in a few years?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Garden Salad by Variant Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Social Security Fears, Increasing Anxiety, & Bundling is Back #861

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: paying for the Olympics, uninsured drivers ruining the party, pay per mile insurance, Social Security fears, centenarian CDs, kiddo credit scores, increasing financial anxiety, more money more happiness, bundling is back, and an all-sports streaming app.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scholarships to Graduate Debt Free w/ Jocelyn Pearson #860

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

How would you like a completely paid-for college?! That sounds like an absurd pipe dream, but our guest today did it herself. In fact, she would receive a cash check each semester for any additional expenses she might’ve incurred as well! ALSO, scholarships paid for six months studying abroad in Spain – she’s not messing around! We’re joined by Jocelyn Pearson, the founder of The Scholarship System, which is an online resource that offers training sessions and online courses to teach folks how to find, apply for, and win valuable scholarships that can allow you to graduate debt free. To date, The Scholarship System has helped families secure over $13 million in scholarships by teaching them how to find the scholarships that are winnable (including specific search terms), to avoid the more scammy types of scholarships, utilizing AI to help you snag free money, how you can even create your own scholarship just by asking, the optimal timing for highschool students to begin applying for scholarships, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Tart Strawberry M43 by Old Nation Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - A Single Stock Investing Strategy, WTD About Weak CD Renewals, & A Psychological Trick For Boosting 401k Contributions #859

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How do I increase my 401k contributions by the same percentage of the raise I just received?

2 - Where should I open a brokerage account for my single stocks that I trade fo the dopamine hit?

3 - My CD is about to mature – what should I do with that $75,000?

4 - Will paying down my mortgage or making home improvements give me a bigger ROI?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Super Megabite by Hop Butcher for the World! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Sticky Side Hustles, Neo Bank Nightmares, & Renting Forever #858

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Cat & Jack, a cooling job market, sticky side hustles, Delta implosion, surveillance pricing, neobank nightmares, crummy cash bonuses, tried and true(ly affordable) methods for fitness, and potential good news for homebuyers.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Wives Dish on Lifestyle Creep! #857

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Join us for a very laid back conversation with our better halves: Kate and Emily sit down behind the mics with us while we enjoyed a summer vacation at the beach last week. Rather than field listener questions, we had a delightful and inquisitive discussion that centered around increased spending. How we’ve managed rising prices whether that’s simply due to inflation or if lifestyle creep is a factor, accounting for additional sources of income, whether our frugality keeps us from more expensive pursuits, hitting pause on investing, the fear of running out of money (or having too much?), raising money savvy kids, aging parents, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Zitrone Stiegl Radler! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Accidents and Insurance and Deductibles, Oh My! (Bestie) #856

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Who remembers fire and tornado drills back when they were in school?! Even though in the moment they seemed like a complete waste of time, looking back as adults it’s easy to see how important it is to run a drill of what you would do in the event of a fire. And if you were in the scary scenario where you DID have a fire at your school, you were probably glad to have gone through the motions and rehearsed exactly what you should do. Insurance is kind of like a fire drill- most of the time it feels completely unnecessary, but in the rare instances where you actually need to put it to use, you’re more than happy to know you have that policy in place. And while virtually everyone is required to have car insurance, fewer folks have had the misfortune of being in an accident. So one of the problems we’re addressing today is what you should do after you’ve been involved in a car accident- it’s a surreal experience that can catch you off guard. We discuss things like diminished value and notifying your insurance company, but we also discuss how you can be financially prepared for accidents and the steps you can take to reduce the cost of insurance.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an A OK Marzen by Gruner Brothers- thanks for donating this one to the show Katie! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Making Money Changes That Stick w/ Katy Milkman (Bestie) #855

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We’re talking all about how you can make some positive money changes in your life! And we can think of no better guest to have on the show than Katy Milkman, author of How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be. Katy is a professor at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania where she explores ways that insights from economics and psychology can be harnessed to change consequential behaviors for good, such as exercise and vaccination, but also behaviors like saving more money which is a topic we’re very interested in. She’s advised organizations ranging from the White House to 24 Hr Fitness, her op-eds appear in publications like the New York Times and the Economist, & we’re excited to be discussing making money changes that stick today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Hefeweiz Guy by Mutation Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Stoic Path to Wealth w/ Darius Foroux #854

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

You might be tempted to think that an alternative name for this episode could be “emotionless investing”, but there’s a lot more to Stoicism and finances than that! We’re excited to be joined by Darius Foroux – he’s a prolific author, entrepreneur, and productivity expert known for his work on personal development. Much of his writing can be found over at his site, DariusForoux.com, where he focuses on wealth building, productivity, and finding meaning in work which are all topics we discuss today! Darius has written several books, including the newly published "The Stoic Path to Wealth," which blends ancient Stoic philosophy with modern financial wisdom. We cover how to create distance between you and your money, gaining a sense of calm, forming the habit of investing, building your career on top of your strengths, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Field Trip by Monday Night Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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Ask HTM - Insurance You Want to Avoid, Investing in Carbon Credits, & Getting Priced Out of the Housing Market #853

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it worth investing in my employer offered 401k even if the options are limited?

2 - Why is my index fund losing money when the market has only been going up?

3 - What is the best way to invest in carbon credits and which funds do you guys recommend?

4 - Should I continue to keep a large amount of cash in savings if I’m planning to buy a home or should I invest it due to rising home prices?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Whipped Pineapple Gose by Westbrook! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Cohabitating to Save, Big Bank Threats, & Longevity by Design #852

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: forever ever stamps, Costco membership price increases, personal finance 101, cohabitating to save, forgotten free streaming, ubiquitous betting, big bank threats, buh-bye paper checks, credit card disputes on the rise, longevity by design, & no dice noncompetes.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teach and Retire Rich w/ Dan Otter #851

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Teaching isn’t typically synonymous with accumulating vast quantities of wealth but our guest today, Dan Otter, is here to say otherwise. And actually, it turns out that teachers have a way to totally supercharge their retirement by investing even more money than they otherwise thought possible – that’s just one of the many topics we cover. But Dan Otter is an elementary school teacher turned 403b hero in the world higher ed and teachers. He is the founder of the much referenced site, 403bWise.org, and we’re pumped to discuss the different ways that teachers (a massively underappreciated profession BTW) can financially prepare for their futures. We discuss how to know whether your 403b is any good, why more options doesn’t necessarily mean better options, alternative paths to consider if your 403b is crummy, and plenty more today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Blanche De Nashville by Yazoo Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Counting Extra Mortgage Payments, Dangerous Ways to Tap Home Equity, & Losing a Chunk of Retirement Dollars #850

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it a good idea to grab some home equity using sites like HomeTap?

2 - Why did I lose a big chunk of my retirement funds when I withdrew some of my investments?

3 - Should I consider buying the house I rent from my landlord?

4 - Do I count extra mortgage payments made to the bank when calculating my savings rate?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Hammer Red by Sweetwater Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - The SAVE Seesaw, Brand Warmth, & Money Avoidance #849

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: the slowest workday of the summer, the SAVE seesaw, overspending own goals, a new attractive unlimited MVNO, brand warmth, exes getting millions, auto-enroll to the rescue, money avoidance, & saving like BTS.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catching up to FI w/ Jackie Cummings Koski #848

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Nobody likes to be late to a party – the good snacks and drinks are gone, you’ve missed out on some inside jokes, and other friends may have already dipped out! It’s a bummer to feel like you’re out of the loop, because once you finally do learn about something important, like investing for your future, you’re in the disadvantaged position of having to make up for lost time. And I think that’s how a lot of folks feel when they first learn about FIRE, Financial Independence Retire early, “Sure, I’d be able to retire early too if I had heard about this 30 years ago!” But we’re here to tell you that it’s not too late, and our guest Jackie Cummings Koski is living proof that you didn’t have to start investing in your 20s in order to reach FIRE. Having only woken up to handling her finances responsibly at the age of 38, it only took her around a decade to call it quits (earning less than $100k/year), proving that you can achieve financial freedom even as a late comer. Jackie is a CFP, the author of the recently published FIRE for Dummies, and she’s also the co-host of the podcast Catching Up to FI which is going to be our theme for this episode – getting caught up with your investments!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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During this episode we enjoyed a Pretty Bird by Gate City Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Utilizing Roth Contributions in a Pinch, SAVE Plan for High Earners, & Buying a Home to Save Money #847

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What are some drawbacks of the SAVE Plan for high-income earners? (***note: we didn't mention the federal judge pause to certain aspects of the SAVE Plan as that news broke after we recorded this episode!)

2 - Is tax loss harvesting and sector specific investing enough of a benefit to pay for a financial advisor?

3 - How can I tap my Roth 401k in order to pay off some credit card debt?

4 - Does it make sense to purchase a home if it means paying less than my rent?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a classic: Duchesse de Bourgogne by Brouwerij Verhaeghe! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cheap Meal Prep For Struggling Chefs w/ Frankie Celenza (Bestie) #846

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

What do Michelle Obama and Novak Djokovic have in common? Well at the very least they’ve both enjoyed meals by today’s guest, Frankie Celenza. And if you think about it, whether you’ve lived in the White House, or you’re the number one tennis player in the world, or if you’re just scraping by on a meager income, there is nothing more elemental than our need to eat food. We’re all united by the fact that we get hungry! And while some folks might like to splurge when it comes to meals, the rest of us are looking for ways to cut those costs so we can reach other financial goals. Frankie is a Daytime Emmy award winning culinary host and his show, Struggle Meals, is all about getting the most bang for your buck in the kitchen, both for your wallet and time savings. He is truly a professional in the kitchen and today we talk about buying seasonally, how to be more efficient while we cook, canned vs frozen veggies, redefining what it means to ‘cook’, and of course some of his favorite meals that are affordable and easy to prepare.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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During this episode we enjoyed a Fluffy Cow Hazy IPA by Gruner Brothers- thanks for donating this one to the show Katie! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Car Buying with an Edge w/ Ray & Zach Shefska #845

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

One of the reasons we’re pumped to have our guests joining us today is because it might finally be time for you to buy a car! Supply chains were snarled during the pandemic leading to auto values actually increasing pretty much across the board. It was a terrible time to buy a car – prices weren’t depreciating, they were appreciating! But regardless of the macrotrends, cars are expensive, transportation is a massive line item on most American’s budgets, and here to talk to us about how you can spend less on that car is Ray and Zach Shefska, the founders of CarEdge. CarEdge is a customer-centric buyers agent that gets you the best deal possible, and the founders are going to share their secrets on how you can pay the least for your new ride. Combined they have over 40 years of experience in the car business and we’re going to discuss the questions to ask dealerships, the fees to push back on, and timing it just right to ensure you snag the biggest discount.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Gimme the Lup by Steady Hand Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Max Car Rental Savings, Fun Money Convos with Partners, & Diversifying with REITs #844

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What’s the best way to have an impactful and fun money meeting with my partner?

2 - Mortgage rates and home prices are keeping me from diversifying my portfolio – should I invest in REITs instead?

3 - Should I pay off my mortgage or renovate my home?

4 - Is it worth letting an insurance company track my driving in order to reduce my premium?

5 - Re-shopping a rental car to save massive amounts of money!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Bike Tour, which is a Helles Lager by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Avoiding Upsells, HOA Hell, & Astrological Investing #843

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: putting rent on your credit card, the cheapest way to travel, online passport renewals, avoiding upsells, open-jaw flights, HOA hell, rising costs of home ownership, syndicated real estate investing, astrological investing, AI investing, the bubble of all bubbles, “spaving” your way to riches, the free trial trap, & schlepping ‘n shopping.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Millionaire Mission w/ Brian Preston #842

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

“Who wants to be a millionaire?!” doesn’t quite have the same ring to it in the age of crypto, memestocks, and general inflation where everything costs way more than a few years ago. But t’s still a laudable goal that many folks should be working towards, and our guest today believes that anyone can become rich. Of course it doesn’t happen overnight but Brian Preston lays out a nine-step system for building wealth with the money you already have, in his new book Millionaire Mission. It’s a practical guide that will teach you how to level-up your finances, while simultaneously worrying less about money by focusing on what really matters to you. Millionaire Mission will do more than help you optimize your army of dollar bills - it will motivate you to be the best version of your financial self. We discuss everything from working as a UGA bus driver in college, to the messy middle stage of life when we have so many competing financial goals, to when it makes sense to hire a financial advisor, and plenty more in this convo today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we thoroughly enjoyed a Savannah Banana Beer by Service Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Budgeting with Gift Cards, Inheriting Debt, & the Hidden Costs of Early Retirement #841

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Which of my parents’ debts will I be on the hook for once they (inevitably) pass away?

2 - As a longtime FIRE adherent, how can I switch from a saver to spender mindset?

3 - How should I factor gift cards into my budget in order to accurately reflect my spending?

4 - What are some of the hidden costs of early retirement that I should be accounting for?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we thoroughly enjoyed a Community Connection by Creature Comforts and Dancing Gnome! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Reverse ATMs, Rich Restaurants & The Best Investment on the Planet #840

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: refurb iPhone fail, public library win?, reverse ATMS, king credit card, the best investment on the planet, mortgage rate disparities, the medical industrial complex, rich restaurants, super-commuters, time is money, teen (e-bike) drivers, and the best high mileage cars.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Make Money Without Having Any w/ Ciera Rogers #839

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This is the episode for everyone out there who doesn’t want to work a soul crushing 9-5 job, specifically the kind of job where you’re being told what you can and can’t do, by someone else. This is an episode about entrepreneurship and starting your own business! Which even that phrase is potentially problematic, because what do some folks think of when they hear “launching a business”? Maybe they’re thinking of shows like Shark Tank, or of different rounds of funding, or proposing a business plan – and while that is how some businesses begin, the vast majority of small business owners won’t be running Fortune 500 companies nor will they be featured on the next episode of How I Built This. But those endeavoring individuals do have a great idea for a new product, or a way they can serve people who are willing to pay. And our guest today, Ciera Rogers, is here to share how she started her business: Babes, which is a women’s wear line that has been worn by the likes of Kim Kardashian and praised by Beyonce. Ciera recounts her journey in her new book “The Outsider Advantage” which comes out June 18th, how at the end of the day it’s all about solving problems, how she still is frugal at heart, and plenty more during today’s episode.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we “enjoyed” a Svitle by Obolon Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - To Make or Not To Make the Insurance Claim, When Bankruptcy Makes Sense, & Exceeding the FDIC Limit #838

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is filing for bankruptcy the best option considering overwhelming amounts of debt?

2 - Should I have multiple high yield savings accounts if my cash on hand exceeds the FDIC limit?

3 - What options does my husband have to invest as he waits on his US citizenship?

4 - Would a HELOC be a smart way to pay off some credit card debt?

5 - Will filing an insurance claim for my cracked windshield cause my premiums to go up?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we “enjoyed” a Heineken Silver! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Forgotten 529s, Abandoning Insurance, & Wrecked Credit Reports #837

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: the worst thing about the burbs, leveling up with private equity, not all that glitters is gold, forgotten 529s, abandoning insurance, brick and mortar perks, paying off mortgages, homes for $0 down, wrecked credit reports, and subbing out your social security number.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asking the Right Questions to Save More Money w/ Matt Schulz #836

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

If you have kids or been around kids, you might have noticed that they’re not the best at solving their own problems. It’s a continual process of teaching them to advocate for themselves and that there’s more to it than just stating their problem. So for instance “I’m thirsty” might be a constant refrain and while it’s great to recognize the issue at hand, the goal is to turn that into a request: “Can I have some orange juice?” OK, now we’re getting somewhere! Now she’s taken a proactive step in solving her own problem. This is an important lesson to learn because as we’ll discuss today it’s basically up to us to resolve our own financial conflicts once we’re launched into the real world. We need to be our own advocates in every area of life, but certainly when it comes to our money! Joining us today is Matt Schulz who is the chief credit analyst at LendingTree, and he is also the author of the new book, “Ask Questions, Save Money, Make More” which is essentially a money manual that teaches readers the important questions we need to ask. So whether you naturally speak up for yourself, or would rather disappear back into the bushes, be sure and listen to this episode centering around individual empowerment.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Wernesgruner Pils, purchased at Aldi! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - iPhone Upgrades, Burden of the Gift Tax, & A Potential HSA ‘Gotcha’ #835

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Who is on the hook for paying gift tax when money is given away to an individual?

2 - What should I do with my old 401k as I’m starting a program that doesn’t offer a 401k?

3 - Are medical expenses that are incurred outside of a HDHP window still eligible to be reimbursed by an HSA?

4 - Where should I go if I’m looking to make an affordable iPhone upgrade?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Danish Pilsner by Carlsberg! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Recession Vibes, Addicted to Autos, & Paying for Friends #834

Fri, 31 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: a chargeback frugal or cheap, recession vibes, how low can groceries go, buying nothing, teens coming for your jobs, bagging work early, paying for friends, cars that are long in the tooth, addicted to autos, bookoos of bikes, affordable travel, and quiet vacationing.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In This Economy!? w/ Kyla Scanlon #833

Wed, 29 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Stimmy checks, the productivity paradox, the housing theory of everything – these are just a few of the topics covered with our guest, Kyla Scanlon. It’s tricky to describe who Kyla is and what exactly she does because, yes, she has a massive following on TikTok… but she’s not simply an influencer. She also has an incredible newsletter, but she isn’t simply a writer, even though she has written for the Times, NY Magazine, and Bloomberg. AND, her brand-new book, “In This Economy?: How Money and Markets Really Work,” was just released yesterday. But we think that ultimately Kyla is an educator because she excels at bridging the gap between the complexities of our modern economy and everyday living. It’s clear that she is passionate about empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions. Plus, she does all of this with a touch of humor while not ignoring the philosophical angle as well… happy listening!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Flight by Yuengling! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Consolidating Multiple Retirement Accounts, Rolling Equity into a New Home, & Keeping Up with an Allowance #832

Mon, 27 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How should I factor the equity in my current home as we’re shopping for a new home?

2 - What is the best way to keep track of how much cash my kids have saved while we’re out shopping?

3 - If I have multiple retirement accounts, which one should I prioritize if I’m looking to simplify?

4 - The competition for rentals in my city is fierce- how do I stand out and set myself apart?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Covista Cerveza by Rock Wall Brewing (Aldi)! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Forgetting Football, Home Improvement ROI, & Ignominious Investing #831

Fri, 24 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: naming beneficiaries, forgetting football, home improvement ROI, should I stage or should I go, child care premiums, WFH indulgences, ignominious investing, 401k mistakes, persistent pensions, Roth IRA surges, and learning while you’re earning.

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Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conscious Capitalism w/ Whole Foods Founder John Mackey #830

Wed, 22 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

John Mackey is the remarkable entrepreneur best known as the co-founder of the natural and organic retailer Whole Foods Market. In over 40 years as CEO, John has led the company as it has grown from a single store in Austin Texas, to 540 stores in the US, Canada, and the UK. He also co-founded the Conscious Capitalism Movement and co-authored the New York Times and Wall Street Journal best-selling book by the same name. He’s written a number of great books since then but we’re really excited about his latest which came out yesterday, titled The Whole Story: Adventures in Love, Life, and Capitalism. It’s part memoir, part lessons in entrepreneurship, and we couldn’t recommend it enough. Join us as we have a great conversation around the origins of Whole Foods, if it’s possible to eat healthy foods that cost less, capitalism under fire, how John define conscious capitalism, what it takes to start your own business, and much more!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Peak Mosaic by Hop Butcher for the World! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Perpetual Homeowners Insurance, Deflating Your Taxes, & Paying Less for a Living Trust #829

Mon, 20 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is perpetual homeowners insurance the everlasting gobstopper of insurance products?

2 - How can I reduce my property tax assessment?

3 - What important factors should I look out for at a living trust presentation?

4 - Should I consider a health sharing plan to save a ton of money every single month?

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Mexican Cake by Westbrook! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - FREE cell service, Phantom Debt, & Politicized Investing #828

Fri, 17 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: public property foraging, FREE cell service, delinquent payments on the rise, more Gen Z credit card debt, phantom debt, chargeback safety net, political investing, Nancy Pelosi index, international exposure, and the Social Security time bomb.

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apprenticeships: Earn AND Learn Simultaneously w/ Ryan Craig #827

Wed, 15 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Apprenticeships aren’t just for blacksmiths! The notion that an individual could earn a living, while simultaneously learning how to do their job is such a foreign concept. That’s certainly not how we do things here in America where more folks believe that it takes money to make money! In recent decades more individuals have subscribed to the idea that you have to go to the most expensive college, take on a boatload of student loans, and saddle yourself with years of debt if you want a decent job that pays. Some of the most selective universities are quickly approaching the $100,000 mark… for a single year of college. Nothing has risen faster than the price of college over the decades. But, what if there was another way? We’re joined by education and workforce expert Ryan Craig who says that there are alternatives. His book, Apprentice Nation explores how a modern apprenticeship system will allow students and job seekers to jump-start their careers by learning while they earn, leading to greater workforce diversity and geographic mobility. Hear why other countries are beating us at the apprenticeship game, the types of industries that would greatly benefit from apprenticeships, why college and apprenticeships aren’t mutually exclusive, where you can go to find the best learn and earn programs today, and much more!

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Adjustable Rate by Inner Voice! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Saving/Paying for a Roof, Offsetting the High Cost of Adoption, & if ESPPs are Worth the Hassle #826

Mon, 13 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - What’s the best way of saving up and paying for a roof?

2 - Should I participate in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan?

3 - How can I reduce the financial burden of adoption?

4 - Is it unethical to be a landlord and invest in real estate?

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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Cherry Pie Jammie by Inner Voice! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Guilt-Tipping, FIRE Freaks, & $40k Gyms! #825

Fri, 10 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: social media birthday money solicitations, savers making bank, where to go to borrow, $100 real estate investors, new Vanguard fees, guilt-tipping, FIRE freaks, there’s no place like loan, what medical debt?, and $40k gym memberships.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Change Your Relationship to Money w/ Amanda Clayman #824

Wed, 08 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The ‘DTR Talk’, but with your money! That’s what we’re covering today with therapist turned financial wellness and relationship coach, Amanda Clayman. There is an intrinsic connection between money and mental health, and Amanda’s 20 years of experience in the field allows her to dive into some of the thorniest, most personal dilemmas we face, in order to bring compassionate clarity to the conversation. She’s a counselor, accomplished speaker, and educator as she offers and facilitates workshops, seminars, and courses across the country. And Amanda’s work now extends to a twelve-part podcast: Emotional Inve$tment which is out now on Audible, by Fresh Produce Media. Listen in as we discuss Amanda’s own struggle with money, cognitive behavioral therapy’s impact on better understanding your finances, as well as a number of case studies - individuals Amanda interviewed who opened up about their relationship with money, and the lessons we can all learn.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Fort Point by Trillium! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Overblown Tax Deductions, 4% Rule, and Ditching a Financial Advisor #823

Mon, 06 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I cut ties with my financial advisor and how should I go about doing that?

2 - Does the 4% Rule still apply as my portfolio allocation shifts towards less aggressive investments?

3 - Is the mortgage tax deduction worth claiming?

4 - A financial goldilocks dilemma: am I investing too much, too little, or just the right amount?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Memory Farm by Inner Voice! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Forced Fiduciaries, Bad Budgeting, & ‘One More Year’ Syndrome #822

Fri, 03 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: free ADU drawings, noncompete bans, forced fiduciaries, accessible financial literacy, automatic airline refunds, bad budgeting, Facebook marketplace fraudsters, affordable car maintenance, hospital facility fees, & ‘one more year’ syndrome.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Digital Slomadism on a Dime w/ Becca Siegel #821

Wed, 01 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

You’ve heard about being a digital nomad- maybe you’ve seen the jealousy-inducing headlines over on MSNBC or Buzzfeed, but you’ve convinced yourself that nobody actually does that. Digital nomads aren’t really a thing. Well, we hate to be the bearers of bad news, but they actually do exist and we’re joined by real life digital nomad, Becca Siegel from Half Half Travel. Becca is a well-traveled photographer and digital content creator with a unique approach to travel blogging and remote work that we’re going to spend a lot of time discussing today. She has contributed her travel expertise to various publications like USA Today, Huffington Post, and she and her husband have been featured in the Oprah Magazine, Lonely Planet, Travel & Leisure. Today we’re excited to discuss the highs and lows of being a digital nomad, how to negotiate remote work, the most affordable locations to travel, why joining a program like Remote Year makes sense, traveling with a baby, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Juice Party by Fire Maker Brewing Company! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Preparing for a Wedding, Loopholes to Earn the Most Interest, & Teen Driver Insurance Premiums #820

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it smart to put all of our wedding related expenses on a single credit card?

2 - How do I maximize the interest earned in my high yield savings account?

3 - Beyond getting my employer match, where else should I look to invest my money?

4 - What are some ways to keep auto insurance rates in check with a teenage driver on the policy?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Keller Pils by Hi-Wire Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Low Price EV Leases, Inflationary Amazon, & 24/7 Trading #819

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: pine straw scams, low-price EV leases, energy nerds unite, sinking solar panel prices, energy tax credits, inflationary Amazon, precious metal headaches, 24/4 trading, throwing away money, and free FRYdays.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Future of Work w/ Derek Thompson #818

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Join us for a wide-ranging conversation with our guest today, Derek Thompson. We’re big fans of his work so it hardly seems necessary to introduce him, but he’s a senior editor over at The Atlantic where he’s been for 15 years and has since been recognized for his narratives on topics like the future of work and the science of popularity. The latter of which led to the book "Hit Makers," a best-seller that delves into the secret histories of pop culture hits and the dynamics of what makes something popular. Derek also hosts the podcast Plain English, offering weekly insights into the latest news, the things he’s most interested in, and important issues that our society faces today- like the changing views of what work should and shouldn’t be. We also discuss Derek’s craft beer equivalent, the intersection of the board game Ticket To Ride and higher ed, the vibecession, polarization in media, the decline of workism, the rise of AI in the workplace, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Long Haul Doppelbock by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Selling Investments for Medium-Term Goals, Buying a Primary vs Rental Home, & If 15 Year Mortgages are Bad #817

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I buy a primary home or a rental property instead?

2 - When do I sell investments for a large financial goal that’s three years away?

3 - Do 529 contributions count towards my savings rate?

4 - What is a mistake to go with a 15 year mortgage?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Nut Brown Ale by Samuel Smith! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Banks for Rednecks, Lotto Lies, & the Echo Housing Boom #816

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: banks for rednecks, more debt less fun, cruisers standby, frictionless payments, echo housing boom, phantom housing costs, baked rates, turning down a promotion, lotto lies, false jackpots, money dysmorphia, you need less to retire than you think, & advice only advisors.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retiring on the Reg w/ Jillian Johnsrud #815

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The preconceived notion of the word “retirement” is one of the biggest hurdles to overcome here in the US. Be honest- what do you think of when you hear that someone is retiring? Maybe you think of someone who is a bit older or maybe they’re past their prime. You might not go as far as to say they’re “giving up”, but there’s this idea that they’ve put in several decades of hard work and are now kicking back. And if you attempt to picture yourself in that situation, it’s often so far off into the future that it’s difficult to have any connection to that future version of you. Honestly you probably don’t have any idea of what retirement might look like. Well, HOLD THOSE THOUGHTS, because these are precisely the types of problems that our friend Jillian Johnsrud loves to help folks navigate. She writes over at RetireOften.com, hosts a podcast by the same name, and coaches individuals who are looking to custom build a lifestyle that perfectly reflects their values, passion, and purpose. And while “retiring often” might sound like a luxury reserved for the ultra-wealthy, Jillian is here to point out that it’s more achievable than you think. Today we discuss what constitutes a mini-retirement, how long they should be, the kinds of goals you should set during a mini-retirement, and how to negotiate one with your employer.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Grits N Juice by Carolina Bauernhaus! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Roth Emergency Funds, Buying Out A Lease, & Financial Advice For Graduates #814

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should or shouldn’t I prioritize paying down my student loans with the potential of forgiveness on the horizon?

2 - As a recent college grad, what is the best financial advice you have for me?

3 - Is it worth taking the additional tax hit to prioritize a Roth 401k over a traditional 401k?

4 - Using my Roth IRA as an emergency fund- is this a good idea?

5 - What is the best way to buy out my car lease and is it even a wise move?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Wake-n-Bake Coffee Imperial Stout by Terrapin! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Last Minute Tax Tips, New Job Fever, & A Food Waste Fix #813

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: last minute tax tips, more money vs more time, new job fever, jobs of tomorrow, beware of the neobanks, car wrap scams, repair or replace that appliance, less cashierless stores, fewer discount stores, ‘use by’ dates, & nutrition labels for the internet.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting Scrappy to Save on Streaming w/ Michael Timmerman #812

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

There are three ways to boost your net worth: you can invest more money, but keep in mind that we’re in it for the long haul- it takes decades for compounding to really kick in. You can earn more money which is a ton of fun- who doesn’t like getting promoted or earning a fat bonus at work? But again, this can take years of grinding it out, at the very least months of hard work in order to stand out among your peers. OR, there are changes that you can literally make immediately by cutting your expenses in order to save more money. That’s what we’re discussing with our guest today, Michael Timmerman. Michael writes over at MichaelSaves.com, his YouTube channel has over 25 million views- in part because he's virtually a human guinea pig, working on our behalf to test products and services to make sure we’re getting the best deals possible. And today we have a great conversation centered around the many different scrappy ways that we can save on streaming, cell phones, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we both enjoyed a Buzzfest by Infinite Ale Works! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Alt Investment Considerations, Making the Most of Profit Sharing, & National Debt’s Impact on Your Portfolio #811

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I consider alternative investments offered by the newer fintech platforms?

2 - Do medical bills need to be directly paid for with my HSA or should I use a credit card?

3 - What should I do with over six figures from my employer's profit sharing plan?

4 - How should I account for the US national debt in my retirement portfolio allocation?

5 - Paying off a 2.5% mortgage- does it ever make sense?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an I Choose Yuzu by Pure Project Brewing- a big thanks to Kristi for donating this one to the pod! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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Is Passive Income a Myth? (Bestie) #810

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Just like how we can idolize ‘finding the right one’ when looking for a partner or spouse, the same can be true of passive income as we’re talking about our personal finances. We can be tempted into thinking that if we only find the right person then it’s smooth sailing. But as anyone who has been in a long-term relationship knows- the work has only just begun! The same is often true of the different passive income opportunities that we hear pitched in social media or hawked in YouTube videos. Passive income is a legit and real concept, but the way it’s often presented doesn’t include the full story, or they leave out some crucial details. There are very few sources of 100%, purely passive income and so that’s why we are dispelling the myth that there are opportunities around every corner, but have a listen because there are ways you can begin establishing your own future streams of income, today.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Radix by Halfway Crooks! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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The Bitcoin Episode for Normies w/ Marko from WhiteBoard Finance #809

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

With Bitcoin near all-time highs, maybe you’re thinking “DANG, I need to buy some… BTC is going to the moon after all!” Well not necessarily- don’t think that you’re missing out on an opportunity of a lifetime to strike it rich. But we are going to discuss how investing in Bitcoin can not only boost your overall returns, but how it can also be a balanced and healthy strategy for investors. We’re joined today by Marko from White Board Finance to have a frank and practical conversation about Bitcoin. Marko was self-taught and started investing in the market at the age of 18. But then after studying finance and working for tech startups and in banking, he launched his YouTube channel which is currently just shy of one million subscribers! He’s an expert of all things personal finance, but we’re mainly going to focus on the future of Bitcoin, the recent events responsible for it blowing up, how much Bitcoin you should own in your portfolio, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Diamond Dust by Pure Project- a big thanks to Kristi for donating this one to the pod! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Investing Deadlines, Building Generational Wealth, & Coping With Financial Regrets #808

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I invest in the stock market if I’m planning to maximize my real estate holdings?

2 - I’d like to build generational wealth so how should I look to invest money for my son?

3 - What do I do about the individual company stock I own that I acquired via a 401k match?

4 - Is it too late to contribute to a 2023 Roth IRA?

5 - Financial regrets: how would we have invested $500, knowing what we know now?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Boneshaker by Moat Mountain- thanks for donating this one to the podcast Todd! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Passive Income Plans, Paying Points, & Rewards Rug Pull #807

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Daniel Kahneman vs Sam Bankman-Fried, banana prices, seeking after passive income via vending machines and house flipping, paying down points, keeping the mortgage, fabulous 401(k)s, rewards rug pulls, Robinhood is golden, & an annuity in search of a problem.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Real Estate FIRE w/ Alan Corey #806

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We love real estate! Any long-time listener of the podcast knows that we’re fans of investing in real estate. We both have a handful of rentals and a decent chunk of our financial success is due to those houses! That being said, we also approach the conversation with a degree of reservation because we don’t think it’s for everyone- it’s not nearly the source of passive income like many would lead you to believe. Not to mention we happened to dip our toes in the waters at a historically great period of time. So we’re nuanced, but our guest today is NOT! Here to preach the real estate gospel is Alan Corey who is all-in: he’s a realtor, author of A Million Bucks By 30 as well as House FIRE, which we’ll be discussing today, and of course an investor himself. Alan is a self-proclaimed ‘real estate maximalist’ here in our wonderful city of Atlanta, and we’re going to talk about all things real estate- the current state of the market, why first time home buyers shouldn’t wait, why he doesn’t care about interest rates as an investor, the role of leverage when investing in real estate, if umbrella insurance is enough to mitigate risk, how to think about investing in an Airbnb, vacation rentals, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Oost by HighGrain Brewing- a big thanks to Mike and Kristy for donating this one to the pod! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - The Key Personal Finance Metric, Negotiating A Lower Car Loan Rate, & WTD When Your Cheese Is Moved #805

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Am I supposed to include employer contributions when determining my savings rate?

2 - Is it possible to negotiate a lower car loan interest rate now that I have a higher credit score?

3 - Should I save extra for retirement if I have a healthy guaranteed pension?

4 - After purchasing my dream home, what should I work towards next?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Alpsi by HighGrain Brewing- a big thanks to Mike and Kristy for donating this one to the pod! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Blue Collar Cash, Restless Realtors, & Social Media for Savings #804

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: a reason for checked bag fees, mandatory 4-day workweeks, post-achievement life, right to disconnect, valuing a leisure ethic, underwater cars and diving used car prices, restless realtors, negotiating fees, blue collar cash, no-loan degrees, and social media is for savers.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tightwads vs Spendthrifts w/ Scott Rick #803

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

When you read the words: tightwad and spendthrift, it’s likely that you find yourself drawn to one over the other. Maybe you’ve always been on the cheaper end of the spectrum and you see it as being a responsible adult. Or maybe you’re more like a lot of Americans and you find it impossible to pass up a good sale- even if you don’t necessarily need that item you just want to have some fun! Or perhaps you’re what our guest today calls an ‘unconflicted consumer’. Either way, the good news is that you’re not locked into this archetype forever. You can modify your behavior which can be incredibly beneficial, not only for your personal financial goals, but also to your relationship with your spouse or significant other. To talk about that and more today, is Scott Rick. Scott holds a PhD in Behavioral Decision Research from Carnegie Mellon. He’s known for his work on consumer financial decision-making where Scott focuses on the emotional aspects that influence spending behaviors and his latest book is Tightwads and Spendthrifts: Navigating the Money Minefield in Real Relationships. Today we discuss how retail therapy actually works, why financial opposites tend to attract, the best ways for couples to combine their money, “spending roles” for tightwads and spendthrifts, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Dreh by HighGrain Brewing- a big thanks to Mike and Kristy for donating this one to the pod! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Overpriced Organics, Health Sharing Risks, & Tax Sheltering for High Earners #802

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it worth spending extra money on organic products for your baby?

2 - How do I move my cash over to a high yield savings account and should I move ALL of it?

3 - What is the best way to tax shelter retirement funds if I’m a high wage earner?

4 - Health sharing accounts seem like a great way to save money, but what are the risks?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Gnomaste IPA by Moat Mountain Brewing- a big thanks to Todd for donating this one to the pod! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Crappy Credit Unions, Contractor Scams, & Aldi Everywhere #801

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Rivian R2 deposits, streaming services vs. a Tesla, car privacy invasions, plummeting savings rates, crappy credit unions, cheap coffee hacks, contractor scams, smaller affordable homes, Airbnb scapegoat, Aldi everywhere, self-checkout lanes, & donation solicitations,

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Young and Profiting w/ Hala Taha #800

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Today is going to be all about making money and getting paid! Hala Taha is the host of the Young and Profiting podcast, which is a top business and entrepreneurship podcast across all the apps. She is also the founder and CEO of YAP Media, a business podcast network with a full-service social media and podcast marketing agency for top podcasters, celebrities, and CEOs. Hala is an expert on networking, marketing, side-hustles, personal branding- and one of the platforms she recommends to achieve much of this success is LinkedIn. It turns out that LinkedIn isn’t just for old cubicle workers anymore so Hala has some great advice like retargeting content, the rise of ‘broetry’, using keywords to your advantage, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Chocorua Imperial Stout by Moat Mountain Brewing- a big thanks to Todd for donating this one to the pod! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Best Cars Under $10k, WTD With Inactive Credit Cards, & Retiring on $250k #799

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it better to inherit a house eventually or buy it outright now in order to gain the tax benefits?

2 - I don’t want my credit score to get dinged so how hard should I work to keep my 20 credit cards active?

3 - Should $200k-$300k be enough for my husband and I to retire on?

4 - What’s the best car I can get for under $10,000?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Cuvée des Jonquilles by Brasserie au Baron- a big thank you to Alice for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Bitcoin Boom, Tax Refund Robbers, & Bogus Bag Fees #798

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: two weeks left to find a Mint budget alternative, Bitcoin booming, 401k millionaires, political investing, tax refund robbers, bought and paid for reviews, bogus bag fees, goldilocks travel window, financial literacy on the rise, & late fee caps on credit cards.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Personal Finance For Geniuses w/ Adam Nash #797

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

… literally, we’re discussing why some of the brightest minds at Stanford University need just as much instruction for their money as the typical American. At such a competitive school, with one of the lowest acceptance rates, you’d think those students have everything figured out, but you’d be wrong! Our guest today, Adam Nash, is a personal finance enthusiast and adjunct lecturer at Stanford University. And today we cover topics like why he starts the course with behavioral finance and how prioritizing income over expenses can bring a traditionally dry subject to life. But beyond the classroom, Adam’s career spans roles at companies like Dropbox, eBay, and even Apple to just name a few that we use on a daily basis. And he’s currently serving as the CEO and co-founder of Daffy, which is a fintech platform centered around charitable giving. So even though it’s not December, we’re also going to talk about strategically giving your money away, why more folks need to consider donor advised funds, and how Daffy can help to make us all more charitable and generous individuals.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a spring saison: Froo Froo Gal, brewed and donated to the show by Graham! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Elevated Escrows, Dangerous HELOCs, & Giving Up on Investing #796

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Can I pass along the higher cost of my mortgage escrow directly to my tenants by raising rent?

2 - When do you know it’s time to stop investing for your retirement?

3 - Do I Bonds make sense for most folks and what 3 month period of interest am I forfeiting by selling early?

4 - I have cash on hand, but should I consider using a HELOC instead?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Double Duckpin by Union Craft Brewing, thanks Luke G for donating these to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Degree Downsides, Credit Bureau Blunders, & Fluctuating Fast Food #795

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Capital One x Discover, degree downsides, credit bureau blunders, the best scam we’ve heard of, fluctuating fast food, ubiquitous subscriptions, & car subscriptions to save.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why Does The Stock Market Go Up? w/ Brian Feroldi #794

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Sure, historically speaking, the stock market always goes up but will it continue to go up?! None of us are willing to make any predictions, but let’s just say that if that’s NOT the case, we’ve got much bigger problems at hand. But the fundamental question remains: why does the stock market grow? This question is answered today by Brian Feroldi, whose journey into the financial realm has led to writing over 3,000 articles on stocks and investing for the Motley Fool. He’s a YouTube star with millions of views where he explains the ins and outs of individual companies and broadly speaking the market as a whole. And Brian’s recent book: “Why Does the Stock Market Go Up?” is what we’re getting into today. This episode is an investing deep dive as we demystify some investing concepts like why stocks are the top performing asset class, what it means to ‘own stock’, why introverts are better investors than extroverts, investing in psychopaths, how to know if single stock investing is for you, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Space Dream Other Half Brewing. Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Stashing an Extra $1k/month, Dropping Full Coverage to Save, & Avoiding Loans for Flight School #793

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Shouldn’t more folks consider using velocity banking to pay off debts?

2 - I have an extra $1,000 at the end of every month; should I invest those dollars for a period of time before paying down my mortgage?

3 - What is the best way to go about paying for flight school?

4 - Does it make sense to drop full coverage on my 2016 car that’s fully paid off?

5 - My husband and I are considering a 401k loan- what should our concerns be?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Once Upon An Orchard by Allagash! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spring Cleaning Your Finances like an Adult (Bestie) #792

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Your birthday comes around every year- and you never forget because it’s something that you look forward to! But we’d argue that there are certain financial tasks that we should also revisit at least once a year, but we’re less than enthusiastic about knocking them out. This neglect is compounded by the fact that our finances have gotten more complicated than ever. You likely have accounts everywhere: you might have multiple 401ks, savings accounts, credit cards- it might feel like there’s too much going on as you juggle more logins than you can keep up with. Now these are tasks that don’t need to become ongoing obligations, but we do think they will help you make your personal finances more manageable. Whether it’s something as straightforward and practical as making some tweaks to your budget or if it’s the beginning of a season of reevaluating your life goals, we have a number of tasks that will allow you to spring clean your finances.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a classic: Saison Dupont by Brasserie Dupont! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Help for Higher Earners w/ Rachael Camp #791

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to be rich? I think very few folks feel rich, even if they are doing really well for themselves. And oftentimes that’s due to the hedonic treadmill as we’re constantly moving the goalposts as to what it is that we think will make us happy. Most folks rarely feel like they simply have enough. But guess what- a lot of folks would be surprised to find themselves in the top 10% of earners in the US. And when you make a lot of money, or at least hope to, it takes a different approach to how you should handle your finances. That’s why we’re excited to be joined by Rachael Camp, owner of Camp Wealth, who is on a mission to help her clients build and preserve their wealth. As a Certified Financial Planner, Rachael not only knows the right moves to make with her money, but she’s actually doing it- she’s designed a financial life that allows her to prioritize the things that are important to her like a matcha tea ritual and snowboarding, by minimizing other expenses, all while advising clients who make upwards of seven figures. Listen as we discuss Rachael’s history with the FIRE movement, delayed gratification, financial mistakes of higher earners, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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During this episode we enjoyed an All Citra Everything by Other Half Brewing. Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Relying on a 0% Balance Transfer Card, Remedying an Out of Control Car Loan, & Sabbatical Money Moves #790

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I execute a Roth conversion during a sabbatical year from work?

2 - How do I remedy an out of control car loan that’s worth less than what I owe?

3 - Do y’all think I can withdraw more than what the 4% rule says is safe?

4 - Can I use HSA funds to pay for healthcare premiums?

5 - Is it time to use a 0% balance transfer card to get us out of some unexpected debt?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Hop Showers by Other Half Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Dupe Destinations, 401k Leakage, & Matt’s Dating Advice #789

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: tips for raging against the machine, pervasive shrinkflation, dupe destinations, a case for timeshares, part time retirement, easiest way to save, 401k leakage, MVNOs to save, the best dating advice, & attractive CDs.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supercommunicating w/ Charles Duhigg #788

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Think about any great relationship that you have- whether that’s with your partner, a friend, or even a boss. In each of those examples, there’s a really good chance that you’re both really good at talking and relating to one another. At the core of any healthy relationship is the ability to feel heard and understood, and that’s why communicating is so important! That’s why we’re pumped to be joined by Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author known for his profound insights into productivity, habit formation, and the science of success. Charles is the author of the new book Supercommunicators, where he explores everything from how marriage counselors teach couples to hear what goes unsaid, to how NASA psychologists look for astronauts who are emotionally intelligent. Deep, meaningful connection to others is vital to living a fulfilling life, but practically speaking, it’s also really important when it comes to discussing money with a partner, which is just one of the many topics we discuss today.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Triple Mosaic Daydream by Other Half Brewing. Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Pressure to Pay for a Kid’s Meal, Affordable Home Security, & Whether BNPL is the Devil! #787

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it better to rent or sell my home when the time comes to move?

2 - Do I have to pay old credit card debt that I have with Capital One?

3 - Frugal or cheap: bringing my own food for my kid when we go to a restaurant?

4 - What’s so bad about buy now pay later if I have the money on hand to make the payments?

5 - Who should I turn to for affordable home security?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a saison – Burden In My Hand by Piedmont Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Unethical Costco Customers, Payday Lending on Steroids, & Are You Rich? #786

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: personalized retirement plans on the rise, armchair stock picking, Disney/Hulu/ESPN+ password sharing crackdown, “I’m great but everything is terrible”, are you rich?, money stress, payday lending on steroids, unethical Costco customers, you’re going to want uninsured motorist coverage, and reward redemption restraints.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting Paid in a Career You Love w/ Eliana Goldstein #785

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

The job market is HOT right now! Unemployment is basically at all time lows sitting at 3.7% with a surprising 353,000 jobs added last month. But that doesn’t mean everyone is happy with their jobs- a recent poll showed that about 60% of workers were planning to leave their jobs by the end of the year! And regardless if it’s because they’re not getting paid enough, or because the work isn’t a good fit, we’re excited to be joined by career coach Eliana Goldstein. She brings a deep understanding of both the personal and professional challenges individuals face in their careers. Eliana works to empower her clients to discover their true potential, guiding them through personalized strategies to achieve their career goals. Today we discuss the red flags that signal it’s time to start looking for a new job, how frequently you should consider job hopping, THE number one source for finding a new job, a few answers you should always be prepared to answer during an interview, the best ways to make yourself visible when working from home, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Boat Drinks Volume 7 by Piedmont Brewery. Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Finding Affordable Cell Phones, Teaching Frugality over Cheapness, & Borrowing to Invest #784

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - How do I know if my portfolio leans too conservative?

2 - Frugal or Cheap… what’s the best way to teach my students the difference between the two?

3 - I’m behind when it comes to investing so should I borrow money in order to jumpstart my retirement?

4 - What’s the best affordable cell phone that won’t break in 2 years?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a tart saison – This Is The Day by Piedmont Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - A Credit Win For Renters, Fake Free Filing, & Garbage Furniture #783

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: best sources for discounted travel, credit win for renters, interest rates x home prices, fake free filing, garbage furniture, second guessing your spending, teen jobs, another WFH tradeoff, employee compensation, & employee stock purchase plans.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breaking Broke w/ George Kamel #782

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Today’s episode is all about getting out of debt as we talk with our new friend George Kamel! And it’s a good time to have this discussion as well since consumer debt, in particular credit card debt, has been on a tear over the past several years- we’re over the $1 trillion mark folks! And we’re lucky to be joined by George because not only has he personally climbed from a negative net worth himself, but he’s also a personal finance expert at Ramsey Solutions! George co-hosts the Ramsey Show as well as the Smart Money Happy Hour podcast in addition to over 16 million views on his YouTube channel. And to prove that he knows how to rock more than a microphone, George has a new book “Breaking Free From Broke” that came out earlier this month. We’re excited to get to know George and his story, how he got started at Ramsey, the normalization of debt, keeping tabs on lifestyle creep, his biggest wealth hack, and plenty more during this episode.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

And we actually recorded this episode early in the morning, so no beers today! Please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Career Pivoting to Day Trading, Life Insurance Alternatives, & Predicting Future Stock Market Returns #781

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - As I’m mapping out my financial future, what kind of returns should I expect from the stock market?

2 - Do I actually need life insurance if I don’t have a partner or kids?

3 - Should I pay off a debt or invest that money if the rate of return is the same on both?

4 - Is day trading a career choice that I should consider?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Color Decay by Piedmont Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Loud Budgeting, Rampant Financial Infidelity, & Bad Bank Behavior #780

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: 1% Robinhood match with no caps, investing at all-time highs, active vs passive investing, more income ≠ more happiness, ‘new’ collar jobs, loud budgeting, $125 envelopes, rampant financial infidelity, employer student loan benefits, and bad bank behavior.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why I Left the FIRE Movement w/ Gwen of Fiery Millennials #779

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Most folks have no problem spending their money. I hate to say it, but shopping is basically an American pastime! It certainly drives production as data shows that consumption is responsible for ⅔ of our economy. But not everyone indulges in retail therapy- hopefully the majority of listeners to the podcast are less likely to mindlessly spend. And there’s a certain subset of folks who actually struggle with the opposite problem: they mindlessly save. We frequently discuss Financial Independence Retire Early, and we’re excited to be joined by a recovering member of the FIRE movement, Gwen Merz. Gwen has been a part of the community for years. She’s the creator behind the blog Fiery Millennials and was recently featured in multiple Business Insider articles. And now she’s working on a book documenting her FIRE journey!- here’s a quote from her book proposal: “Supersavers will improve the quality of their lives by shedding maladaptive behaviors and emotions…”. It turns out that the habits that lead to more savings and investments, may not be the same ones that lead to happy and fulfilling lives. Listen as we discuss Gwen’s introduction to FIRE, how far she pushed her savings rate, a failed attempt at investing in real estate, her spending experiments, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Georgia On My Mind Wholesome Wave Collab by Piedmont Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Best Credit Cards for Honeymooners, Paying Extra on a Mortgage, & Buying a Car from a Rental Agency #778

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - How should we tackle our HELOC after getting laid off?

2 - What are the best credit cards to consider for our honeymoon?

3 - If we don’t plan to stay in our new condo for the next 30 years, does it still make sense to make extra payments?

4 - Are 529 accounts the best way to save for my kids?

5 - Is it frugal or cheap to buy a used Tesla from a car rental agency?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Nelson No. 3 by Piedmont Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Career Cushioning, AI at the Warehouse Club, & Overdraft Fee Elimination #777

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: canceling Peacock & Prime, career cushioning, earning more in-person, AI in the warehouse club, no bait and switch car lots, selling 1k pounds of stuff, pushing back on lifestyle creep, overdraft fee elimination, and unnecessary title insurance.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cruises: The Cheapest Way to Travel w/ Ilana from Life Well Cruised #776

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Over here at How To Money, we’ve experienced a lot of life over the years and typically the way the podcast works is that we share our firsthand account of something personal finance related. Save up 3-6 months of living expenses for an emergency fund? Of course. Investing in real estate and becoming a landlord? We’ve achieved that many times over. Pursuing entrepreneurship by scaling a podcasting sidegig into a full-fledged business? You’re listening to it! But when it comes to going on a cruise, we’re total noobs! Neither of us have ever been on a cruise before, and so we figured it made sense to bring on a pro. We’re joined by Ilana from Life Well Cruised which is a cruise and travel blog, and she also has a YouTube channel where she has around 45 million views, which is incredible! But it shouldn’t come as a surprise considering the helpful content she’s publishing over there. Ilana shares why she loves cruising so much, how to get the best deal during wave season, the difference between some of the major cruise lines, excursions, choosing a room, sea sickness, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Last Will and Testament by Monday Night Brewing- a big thanks to Ryan for sharing this one with us! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Too Rich to ‘Buy Nothing’, Small Cap Value to Maximize Returns, & Spending HSA Funds on Anything #775

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - What’s the point of sticking money in a Health Savings Account?

2 - Does it make sense to lease a car since I’m so dependent on my vehicle for work?

3 - Should I consider small cap value funds in order to maximize investment returns?

4 - Am I too well off to snag free items from a Buy Nothing group?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Sundog by Monday Night Brewing- a big thanks to Ryan for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - WFH Fairness, Roth 401k Revamp, & MrBeast’s Debt Dystopia #774

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: BTC for the masses, blending work and life, what are you optimizing for, a slowing job market, WFH fairness, Roth 401k revamp, IRA matches, MrBeast’s debt dystopia, do-or-die insurance ordeals, & keeping lifestyle creep at bay.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overcoming Your Scarcity Brain w/ Michael Easter #773

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Our brains are hardwired to relentlessly believe that we don’t have enough. Michael Easter, our guest today, calls it the scarcity brain which is also the name of his recent book. And even though we know it’s definition, scarcity is likely a concept that few folks listening to this podcast have much experience with. At least in our modern age, we have enough food, shelter, and clothing on hand that the vast majority of folks haven’t felt the true impacts of real scarcity. In fact most of us have plenty of the things needed for survival, plus the countless cardboard boxes of stuff that we’re duped into purchasing on a whim. So why spend an episode talking about a shortage of resources? Well it’s because problems arise when our minds are programmed to operate in a world of scarcity, but in reality we’re living in an age of abundance. Michael has traveled the world, he’s observed tribes in the jungles of Bolivia, studied addiction in bombed out hotels in Baghdad, and spoken with the top researchers of psychology in order to understand the mind and how we form good and bad habits. We discuss the scarcity loop, gambling addiction, our incessant buying of stuff, gamification, and more during today’s episode!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Nelson Double IPA by Ever Grain Brewing- a big thanks to Rhiannah for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Rule of 55 and Early Retirement, 5% Down Payments, & Transitioning a Kid to Financial Adulthood #772

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Does it make sense to buy a house with 5% down to avoid paying rent?

2 - What financial tasks should I cross off the list for my 18 year old daughter?

3 - The Rule of 55 allows me to tap a 401k early, but do 401k rollovers also qualify?

4 - How can a small business start offering retirement benefits on the cheap?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Violent Green by Ever Grain Brewing- a big thanks to Rhiannah for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - The Wealth Effect, Christmas Returns, & BNPL IRL #771

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: pennies and coinstar gift cards, fat 401k accounts and the wealth effect, 2024 is the year for student loans, 529 flexin, Christmas returns, new year new gadgets, leasing used cars, BNPL IRL, & whether ARMs are the answer.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buy Nothing to Gain Everything w/ Liz Chai #770

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

No matter how much dough you're raking in, there's always the chance you'll blow it all and end up at the month's finish line with a barren bank account. Studies show that 45% of folks who are high-wage earners, so we’re talking about individuals making more than $100,000 annually, that they’re living paycheck to paycheck as well! Sure, some financial situations could be solved with a higher income, but more often than not, we are the problem. We’re our own worst enemies as we move the goalposts of what we think will make of happy, and continue to buy ridiculous amounts of stuff! And that’s why we’re excited to be speaking with our friend Liz Chai, author of “How To Buy Essentially Nothing For A Year” where she chronicles the personal challenge that has grown into a larger movement. We discuss Liz’s history with collectibles, why she recommends taking the hardcore path, the many benefits of buying less stuff, getting reluctant partners on board, and more!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Dead On DIPA by Hidden River- a big thanks to Rhiannah for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Ending A Car Lease, Velocity Banking Tricks, & When Index Funds Are Too Risky #769

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

1 - What is velocity banking and should it be something I consider doing?

2 - Are index funds too risky as my net worth has grown?

3 - Should I take advantage of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan as I consider saving for retirement?

4 - How do I get out of a car lease?

5 - Does it make sense to use a digital platform like GoHenry to teach my kids how to handle their money?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Remain Restless by Hidden River Brewing- a big thanks to Rhiannah for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Weird Finance Bonus w/ Paco de Leon

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Enjoy a recent convo Joel had with Paco de Leon over at the Weird Finance podcast as they discuss how investing in relationships impacts your finances!

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Strategic Debt Use To Catapult Your Finances (Bestie) #768

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Some folks will swear that taking a nap is bad for you. “It’ll throw off your circadian rhythm!” or “You’re being lazy- maybe it’s time to be more productive with your time!”. And of course, like many things in life, you could take it too far. For instance taking a nap while your friends are visiting or climbing in bed for 3 hours in the middle of the day will likely lead to poor outcomes- there will be negative downstream effects. But the reality is that a well-timed nap can bring a lot of benefits for many folks- it can boost your memory, increase your job performance, and ease your stress levels. Well, in the same way that naps are misunderstood, so is debt. Indiscriminate use of naps or debt could easily create a mess. But the strategic use of debt is an incredibly nuanced topic that we’re venturing into. Today we discuss how you can determine if you’re using debt strategically by looking at your finances holistically, how folks use debt as a crutch, why it’s important to understand opportunity cost, evaluating your own personal debt tolerance, and much more!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Milk and Cookies by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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The Perils of Investing in Individual Stocks (Bestie Ep) #767

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Think about the last novel you read that included a dangerous quest. If it’s a fantasy like the Hobbit, there might be giant spiders, goblins, and dragons- but in the end, it’s worth it because of the unfathomable treasure and riches that await them. The thing is, when we’re talking about investing in single stocks, the chance that this perilous journey ends up with a happy ending is much less likely, but folks continue along in their quest. Why? Maybe it’s because of the sophisticated tools that we have at our fingertips, or because it’s more accessible than ever with apps like Robinhood where you can buy and sell for free, or maybe you just think you’re smarter than everyone else. And sure you’ve heard of individuals who have crushed it by investing with a company like Tesla, but we’re still not fans of this type of approach. So in this episode we tackle some of the most common arguments advocating for investing in single stocks, why we ultimately disagree, and how you should invest your money instead. Single stock investing is unnecessary and can often be problematic.

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During this episode we enjoyed a classic: Trappistes Rochefort 10 by Brasserie de Rochefort! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Busting Some Credit Score Myths (Bestie Ep) #766

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

You know you can’t believe everything that you read on the web, right?! There are all sorts of myths, half truths, and straight up lies that can not only make us look foolish were we to believe them, but they can also separate us from our hard earned money and cause us financial harm. And it turns out there are a number of myths that pervade how many think about their credit scores. Some of this confusion has to do with the fact that different lenders reference different scoring models, so it’s tough to know exactly what is going on underneath the hood. But in addition to that there is flat out wrong information floating around that has an impact on how we view these mysterious three digit numbers- our credit scores. Listen as we tackle some popular credit score myths head on, and explain what you actually need to do in order to maintain a healthy credit score.

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During this episode we enjoyed a Hello World! by Spyglass Brewing - a big thanks to Gary for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Comfy Cash, Resale Resurgence, & Abandoning The Internet #765

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Home Grown Comfy Chicken, leaning into divergent spending, asking for rent concessions, boarding house startup, comfy cash, abandoning the internet, boutique fitness bankruptcies, resale resurgence, affordable prescription drugs, & geographic arbitrage for kids!

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Organizing Your Money for 2024 w/ Alaina Fingal #764

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Are you a neat freak, or do you prefer to simply wing it? Here’s a thought exercise: How would you feel if your partner said, “We’re going to The Container Store!”? If you’ve never been before, it’s pretty self-explanatory; basically, a retailer dedicated to organizing everything from Christmas decorations to tools in the garage and shoes in the closet. But last I checked, they didn’t have anything specific to organize your personal finances. That’s why we're lucky enough to be joined by the woman behind The Organized Money, Alaina Fingal. The Organized Money is an incredible resource – it’s a site, a blog, and Alaina creates a ton of videos on YouTube where she has nearly 200,000 subscribers. Her goal is to help folks build wealth by organizing their money. As a certified financial coach and author, Alaina is on a mission to help folks find financial peace by utilizing different systems that work for them. We discuss how Alaina developed her organizational prowess, going with analog strategies to help you stay on target, how her weekly meeting keeps her from busting her budget, organizing your time, and much more during today’s episode.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
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During this episode we enjoyed a Missile Toad by Ever Grain Brewing – a big thanks to Rhiannah for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Festivus 2023: Celebrating Listener Money Wins #763

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

For a year that could be dominated by headlines of derailed trains, wildfires, and global conflicts, we think it’s important to focus on some of the good things that happened this year – and we’re not just talking about The Eras Tour! Not only do we share our financial wins from this year, but a massive number of How To Money listeners have been able to make significant strides with their own money. We love creating this episode, hearing what y’all have been able to accomplish, and sharing it with your fellow listeners. We hope that it’s as inspiring and motivating to y’all as it is to us! Listeners were able to do everything from negotiating hospital bills, to pivoting careers in order to drop commutes, to maxing out IRAs, to buying new homes, to launching new businesses… we could go on. Hopefully we can all learn something from each other today and we’re also hoping that this episode might be the spark for some epic 2024 money wins.

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During this episode we enjoyed a Chronic Happiness by Frog Rock Brewery- a big thanks to Joe for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Deadly Debt, Housing Crash Hopes, & The Expensive American Dream #762

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: a $700 million contract, deadly debt, housing crash hopes, irritating institutional investors, meager housing supply, stock market predictions, the expensive “American Dream”, & entrepreneurship to build wealth.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Traversing a Broken Housing Market w/ Lance Lambert #761

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

To everyone who has decided to ‘take a break’ from your Zillow or Redfin apps: we applaud you! Whether you did it to cut back on your screen time, or simply because of sheer frustration as you’ve sensed that something was broken in the housing market, home affordability seems to be at all time lows. As you scroll through listings, there's this dark cloud of overwhelm, courtesy of the real estate starship we find ourselves strapped to. And even if prices taper off some- how are folks going to handle their mortgage payments considering where rates are sitting? There are a lot of big unknowns when it comes to the largest financial decision that many of us will make, but luckily, we’re joined by Lance Lambert. Lance is the nation's foremost data journalist and beat reporter in the residential real estate space. He’s been the real estate editor over at Fortune Magazine, and he’s recently launched ResiClub to help folks to stay informed on the US housing market. We discuss why home affordability has deteriorated so quickly, specific cities that will continue to see prices increase, key indicators to help you know where your market is headed, the most important consideration before you buy a home, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Juice Lovers by Other Half Brewing- a big thanks to Jason for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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Ask HTM - The Wrong Fidelity Account, Geographic Arbitrage, & Financially Preparing for a Baby #760

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - We’re planning to have a baby! How do we financially prepare and what other advice do you have for us?

2 - Should I sell my home in California and move to Arizona?

3 - How aggressively should I invest within my new daughter’s 529 college savings plan?

4 - My son starts at his first job this weekend – how can I encourage him to invest a portion of his paycheck?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Austell La Vista Mexican Lager by Frog Rock Brewery- a big thanks to Joe for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - EV Apathy, Tax Penalties, & Inflation Is Your Fault! #759

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Disney+ with ads, affordable Christmas lights, EV apathy, the best time to buy an EV, drill baby drill, green tax credits, penalties on tax estimate shortfalls, at fault inflation, gifting appreciated securities, curated tchotchkes, & financial literacy 101.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tax Planning to Shrink What You Owe w/ Sean Mullaney #758

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Don’t believe long-term tax planning is crucial? Here’s a new way to think about it: picture having a slow leak in one of your tires. Well if you just noticed your tire looking a bit flat, then of course head to Costco for some free air, get that tire back up to pressure, and move on with your day – it's a quick and effective short-term solution. But also keep in mind that you’ll have to eventually figure out a permanent solution, whether it’s a plug or a new tire that’ll last you for years. You could keep kicking the can down the road and opt for the quick top-off, but eventually that shortsighted fix will cost you more in wasted time than addressing the problem at hand properly. Similarly, if you’re only looking for ways that you can pay as little tax as possible for this year alone, then you’re missing the forest for the trees. We’re pumped to be talking with our friend Sean Mullaney about minimizing tax liabilities on the podcast today. Sean, a fiduciary financial advisor who writes at FITaxGuy.com, will be delving into both year-end moves and longer-term tax strategies, discussing when he prefers traditional over Roth, upcoming changes to 401k accounts, the best retirement accounts for solopreneurs, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Petit MC by Monday Night Brewing – a big thanks to Ryan for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

The discussion is intended to be for general educational purposes and is not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. Joel, Matt, and the How to Money podcast do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc. and their services.

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Ask HTM - Down Payment vs Investing, Financial Calculators FTW, & the Best High Yield Business Account #757

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - What is the best high yield business account that also pays the highest rate of interest?

2 - How can I use a financial calculator to project my finances if I have a variable income?

3 - As rental property owners, what are your favorite ways to find and screen tenants?

4 - Should I pause my retirement investing in order to more quickly save up a home down payment?

5 - I’m sick of giving folks meaningless stuff around the holidays. Ideas for incorporating nontraditional gifts?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Green Flowers by Other Half Brewing- a big thanks to Jason for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Formerly FIRE, Fast Food Inflation & Happiness Ain’t Cheap! #756

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Spotify wrapped gratitude, good IRS news for gig workers, happiness ain’t cheap, formerly FIRE, bougie babies, fast food inflation, a tipping game plan, avoiding airfare fees, & student loans aren’t a foregone conclusion.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FAFSA Hacks to Curb College Costs w/ The FAFSA Guru #755

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Today we're diving into the dollar-saving-world of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as the FAFSA (which has seen some significant changes this year). Other than the cost of a hospital visit, nothing has skyrocketed in price like college tuition and fees over the past 20 years. You think your house or your new car is crazy expensive? Nope, just wait until your kid starts looking at colleges- that’s when the real sticker shock kicks in! And that’s why we’re excited to be joined by Tina Steele who is known as The FAFSA Guru. Tina is an expert when it comes to financial aid- she has decades of experience whether she was directly working for different public and private universities, leading a statewide initiative in Maine helping disadvantaged students to pursue college, or creating incredibly valuable videos for her YouTube channel. Today we discuss the critical changes to the FAFSA, who those changes helped and who they hurt, costly mistakes that divorced parents make, the best strategy for appealing a financial aid offer, and other tactics for curbing college costs.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Blue Crab Special Reserve by Other Half Brewing- a big thanks to Jason for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Switching Banks for an Extra 1%, How Much to Spend on a Car, & A Primary Residence to Investment Property Conundrum #754

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - With Mint shutting down, do y’all have any recommendations for new budgeting software?

2 - Should I convert my primary residence into an investment property as I’m moving out of town?

3 - As a contract worker, what are the benefits of opening a solo 401k in order to achieve my investing goals?

4 - How much should I spend on a new car and what’s a good strategy for saving up for it?

5 - Is it worth switching banks for an extra 1% in interest?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Green City by Other Half Brewing- a big thanks to Jason for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Black Friday Flaws, 401k Fails, & You’re Buying the Wrong EV #753

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: two years of flying for free, Black Friday flaws, return policies and travel deals, Hyundai “Add to Cart”, commuting alternatives, micromobility and the wrong EVs, sports betting infecting college students, easier to compare financial aid offers, overpriced cell phone plans, inflated insurance, 401k fails & hardship withdrawals.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Effective Altruism & Giving Well w/ Elie Hassenfeld #752

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Here on the podcast we're always on the lookout for the biggest bang for our buck. Picture this: you, in the grocery store aisle, pondering the cosmic significance of toilet paper prices and whether the fancy stuff is going to be worth it! Or maybe you’re weighing a couple job offers: you're not just negotiating salary, you're out there considering the 401k match, turning job hunting into a strategic sport! We're all about optimizing our lives for maximum value, but are we extending this same strategic approach to the dollars we give to charity? Maybe... or maybe not! That's why we've roped in the philanthropic virtuoso, Elie Hassenfeld, co-founder of GiveWell, a nonprofit committed to finding charities that perform life-saving and life-improving work without breaking the bank. It’s financial optimization meets world-saving wisdom. Listen as we discuss the founding of GiveWell, the ways some charities have fallen short, SBF and his impact on effective altruism, Elie’s rule of thumbs for how much to give, if it’s OK to give locally even if it doesn’t have the biggest impact, and plenty more!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Chonk-ibal by Other Half Brewing- a big thanks to Jason for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Helping Family Regain Financial Footing, Mobile Home Upgrades, & Tax Loss Harvesting For Everyone #751

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Is tax loss harvesting more trouble than it’s worth or am I missing something?

2 - Should I take out a HELOC on my mobile home that has experienced a tremendous amount of growth in equity?

3 - How can I help a family member who has struggled with medical debt to regain their financial footing?

4 - Is opening a 529 account at my local credit union a good idea?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Broccoli by Other Half Brewing- a big thanks to Jason for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Chasing Returns, Free Refis, & Ridiculous Ramsey Rants #750

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: why NOW is the time to apply for a Southwest Rapid Rewards card, chasing the market, actually investing your HSA dollars, ADU financing options, free refinances on the horizon, slippery slope of credit card use, ridiculous Ramsey rants, stalling on Social Security, Vanguard passing on BTC, & higher standard deductions!

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Holiday Shopping Without the Hangover w/ Julie from DealNews #749

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Hold on to your holiday hats because Americans are gearing up to break the spending records this holiday season! Deloitte reports an expected 14% increase in spending compared to last year, with the average consumer spending just over $1,600 on gifts and goodies. We’re entering peak shopping season and who doesn’t want to make sure they’re getting the absolute best deal possible?! That’s why we’re excited to be speaking with Julie Ramhold who is a consumer and senior staff writer for DealNews. With nearly a decade of deal-hunting expertise, Julie ensures we all part with as little cash as possible while still getting the stuff we want. Listen as we discuss the secrets of price matching, unveil the items to steer clear of, explore the world of refurbished products, dive into Julie's gift card wisdom, and much more in today's episode!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Hazy Dry Hopped Sunset With Yuzu Fruit by Tumbleroot Brewery- a big thanks to Bob for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Vital Insurance That’s Not On Your Radar, Budgeting w/ A Variable Income, & Taxes Owed When You Sell Your House #748

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - How do I go about creating a budget with a highly variable income?

2 - As new parents we want to start saving money into a 529 plan but how much should we aim to invest?

3 - Avoiding capital gains when selling a primary residence?

4 - Should most folks have long term disability insurance?

5 - Taking advantage of “3 paycheck months”!

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During this episode we enjoyed a Malpais Stout by La Cumbre Brewing- a big thanks to Bob for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Pressure To Go Paperless, The Subprime Tax, & A Priceless Privacy App #747

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: the most affordable eyeglasses around, pressure to go paperless, learning from buyers remorse, the shopping social network, #dupe, BNPL for travel?, the rise of Apple Pay Later, 8 figures needed for financial freedom?, the subprime tax, a priceless privacy app, & holiday shopping stats.

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Crypto’s Wild Rise and Staggering Fall w/ Zeke Faux #746

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Aside from the fact that cryptocurrency has lost its luster in recent years, it also has a host of other problems. First of all there’s the climate issue since crypto requires a ton of energy. Then there’s the trust issue because without trust you don’t have widespread adoption and what good is crypto if there isn’t a critical mass of users? And then on top of that you add the recent developments of Sam Bankman-Fried’s conviction of stealing billions of dollars from customers at FTX. Knowing that money laundering and wire fraud were being committed… that doesn’t build trust! Every transaction seems like a scam waiting to happen, and few folks know this better than our guest Zeke Faux. We’re lucky to be joined by Zeke as he has documented the rise and fall of crypto over the past few years in his new book Number Go Up, which took him everywhere from El Salvador, to Cambodia, and ultimately SBF’s penthouse in the Bahamas.

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During this episode we enjoyed a Desert Fog by Marble Brewery- a big thanks to Bob for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Are FSAs Worth The Hassle, Making Too Much for a Roth, & Mentally Shifting from Saver to Spender #745

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - What are the tax consequences of selling a single stock within my Roth IRA?

2 - How do I shift my mindset from saver to spender as I enter my retirement years?

3 - I’m getting close to making too much money to qualify for a Roth- how can I avoid that income threshold?

4 - Will closing a bank account that I’ve had since my teenage years hurt my credit score?

5 - Are Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) worth the hassle?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Blood Orange Double Wit by Ponderosa Brewing- a big thanks to Bob for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Top Tier Gas, Credit Freeze Failure, & Bad News for Budgeters #744

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: higher 401k and IRA contribution limits, the eternal war against consumption, financially fasting, pumping the brakes on credit limit increases, top tier gas, when to splurge for ethanol free gas, airfare hacks leading you astray, higher credit scores and higher levels of debt, credit freeze failures, realtor fees revolution, legacy banks making bank, & bad news for budgeters.

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Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prenups Are For Lovers w/ Aaron Thomas #743

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

We’re guessing that the title of this episode may have come as a shock to a lot of folks! If you’ve been listening to the show for a while, you may have picked up on the fact that we haven’t been the biggest proponents of prenuptial agreements… but let’s see if our guest today can change our minds! We’re joined by Aaron Thomas, a graduate of Harvard Law, who also happens to live in our old neighborhood in Atlanta. Aaron is a divorce attorney with decades of experience and his clients range from NBA hall of famers, to the average couple who lives down the street from you. He founded Prenups.com and he’s recently published a new book: The Prenup Prescription, where he argues that a proper prenup can not only protect, but actually improve your relationship. Today we discuss the increasing acceptance of prenups, the importance of marriage for society, the contractual obligations of getting married, whether a prenup does more harm than good, how to start conversation about prenups with your partner, & if a postnup is something you should consider.

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During this episode we enjoyed a Southern Hemisphere Pilsner by Second Street Brewery- a big thanks to Bob for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Avoiding Financial Skeletons, Gross OnlyFans Feet Pics, & Cutting Funeral Costs #742

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

We’re kicking off the week by answering your spooky listener money questions! And if you have a question that you’d like for us to answer on the show, we’d love for you to submit your own via HowToMoney.com/ask , send us your voice memo. Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it! And since this episode wasn’t a traditional Ask HTM episode, let’s mention that we answered and covered a lot of different questions and comments like: favorite seasonal beers, making your own costumes to save, more affordable ways to have fun at Halloween, cutting costs on funerals, overcoming spooky feelings of guilt and taking a vacation, Pumpkin Spice Lattes, financial skeletons in the closet, Halloween arbitrage, gross OnlyFans feet pics, trick or treat candy exchange rate, our favorite scary movie, & repurposing leftover candy.

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During this episode we enjoyed a Social Hour by Santa Fe Brewing- thanks for donating this one to the podcast Bob! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Married Money Mistakes, Expensive IPAs, & A Better Way To Open Enroll #741

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: gamifying your thermostat, car loans come calling, a Thanksgiving dinner gameplan, married money mishaps, a great time to buy a house?, rent vs own, big on smaller homes, down payment assistance, IRS tax filing options, a better way to enroll, & expensive IPAs.

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Preparing for the Unthinkable w/ Chanel Reynolds #740

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Dying without the proper documents in place can cost your loved ones a ton of money! The latest research shows that probate can easily take a 3% to 7% bite out of your estate. And this is a topic that’s been on our minds for months since episode 704, when we had our wives on the podcast. We realized that the ladies might have a general idea of what to do if one of us died, but for the most part they would be rudderless since both of us handle the bulk of our finances in both of our families. That’s why we’re pumped to talk with Chanel Reynolds who has been on a mission for the past decade, to help folks do what she wished she’d done, before life takes a detour. Chanel founded GetYourShitTogther.org and she authored the book “What Matters Most”, both dedicated to help folks to prepare to face the inevitable reality of death. We discuss digital hygiene and staying organized with your accounts and passwords, key estate planning documents, using online software vs hiring an attorney, beneficiaries and transfer on death deeds, how to effectively approach conversations with family, funeral preparations, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Megalodon American Imperial Red which was homebrewed by listener Greg- thanks for sharing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Slashing the Grocery Bill, Life Insurance in Your 20s, & Public Sector Employee FIRE #739

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is an eSIM provider like Airalo legit and a good way to use my phone when traveling abroad?

2 - How do I supplement my pension if I want to retire early from my teaching career?

3 - What are the pros and cons of getting a permanent life insurance policy that my friend is selling?

4 - Some of the best ways to slash your grocery bill!

5 - ‘Mentally arriving’ vs ‘financially arriving’ and overcoming hurdles to actually spend your money!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Strawberry Lemonade Sunset by Inner Voice Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Cheap Ugly Homes, Scam Susceptibility, & Timeshares Making A Comeback #738

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: if Broadway Roulette is frugal or cheap, mediocre matches, millennial millionaires, status quo-ing your way to wealth, scam susceptibility, cheap ugly homes, $1 houses, timeshares making a comeback, fee transparency, it shouldn’t cost money to get money, old phones are still secure, & social media diets.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mental Health is Financial Health w/ Aja Evans #737

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

The fundamentals of personal finance aren’t all that complicated- there’s a reason why we came up with the Money Gears: 7 straight forward steps to take with your money. We could probably boil it down even more: spend less than you make, and invest the rest! So while the core principles of growing wealth are fairly simple, then why aren’t more Americans handling their money better? One reason is because we, as individuals, are incredibly complex! And that complexity can lead to a disconnect between what we know we should be doing with our money, and what we actually end up doing. Sometimes we need someone to guide us, which is why we’re excited to talk with Aja Evans. Aja is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience and she works to help people move toward financial wellness by understanding their relationship with money, their money mindset, and how their feelings impact what they do with their money. And today we discuss confronting our money beliefs, social media’s impact on our finances, financial trauma, setting boundaries, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Quality Time by Inner Voice Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Distinctive Robinhood IRA Match, SAVE Plan Costing More, & Hunting for a $5k Car #736

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it worth paying for Robinhood Gold in order to snag the higher match they offer on IRAs?

2 - Should my husband remove himself as an authorized user from his mom’s credit card that has a large balance, even if it’s his oldest line of credit?

3 - Does it make sense to switch to the new SAVE plan to save $6 a month if we’re expecting our incomes to rise?

4 - How can I find a decent $5,000 car- is it even possible?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Icelandic Wee Heavy Einstok Olgerd! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Atrocious Autopay, High Cost of WFH, & IRS Comes For Savers #735

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Meta resuming credit card fees for donations, a direct EV tax credit, annual cost of car ownership, declining rates of bicycling, the high cost of WFH, atrocious autopay, projected Christmas spending, IRS coming for savers, the fall of financial advisors, & DIY’ing your way to wealth.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Turning Thousands Into Millions w/ Paul Merriman #734

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Sure you could simply invest in a target date fund, or even take the more aggressive path by going all-in on equities and investing solely in the S&P 500. But what if that means you’re potentially leaving millions on the table by the time you reach retirement? That’s the question at the center of our conversation today with our guest Paul Merriman. He is the author of eight books, has a regular column at MarketWatch, is a legend in the DIY investing arena, and is an advocate of the Two Funds for Life investing strategy. That strategy outperforms the S&P and we discuss how you’re able to do that with small-cap value stocks! After Paul retired from his wealth management firm he founded the Merriman Financial Education Foundation a little over a decade ago. Of course it’s a non-profit, and is “dedicated to providing comprehensive financial education to investors at all stages of life” which is a mission that really resonates with us- he wants individuals to be informed and to understand how much they might be missing out on. We look at the historical data and it’s convincing enough that we might be changing how it is that we invest for our future!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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During this episode we enjoyed a Discipline Dubbel by Bold Monk! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Societal Impact of Credit Card Fees, Auto Transfer vs Auto Invest, & Shielding Your Credit Report from a Bill in Collections #733

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - I have a recurring transfer to my Roth IRA but is that money actually invested?

2 - How do I keep a bill in collections from hitting my credit report?

3 - Should my life insurance death benefit be based on my outstanding debts or on a multiple of my annual income?

4 - If the societal impact of credit card fees are so negative, shouldn’t we avoid using them altogether?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Walk on Water White by Bold Monk! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - 4 Day Work Weeks, AI Investing, & Diamonds are for Suckers #732

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: avoiding Disney at Christmas, four-day workweeks vs remote work, Project Nile launching an AI shopping experience, investing in AI, Costco gold bars, diamonds are for suckers, Shaq’s Shop, calling the cops on your king crab, finfluencer whac-a-mole, & mortgage rates surging towards 8%.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Myth of the Broke Millennial w/ Dr. Jean Twenge #731

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

There’s a massive difference between how something feels versus the actual reality. We’re talking about vibes as opposed to empirical evidence. And that’s why we’re happy to talk with Dr. Jean Twenge who is a professor of psychology over at San Diego State University. She has researched the personal finances of the different aged cohorts and few experts have addressed the topic of generational change as well as she has. Dr. Twenge has written multiple books on the defining characteristics of specific generations- she did that in her book iGen where she focused on Gen Z, and her latest book, Generations, covers the oldest Silent Generation to the youngest Polars. And an article that she wrote in the Atlantic really caught our eye, because not only did she write about our generation, but she spoke directly to the wealth accumulation of Millennials which of course we found particularly fascinating. Today we discuss generational stereotypes, the impact of individualism and technology on wealth, some of the bigger financial obstacles we face today that our parents didn’t have, the ‘slow life strategy’ and what that means for Gen Z, plus much more!

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Icelandic Arctic Pale Ale by Einstok Olgerd! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - (Gun) Hobby Spending Disagreements, Int'l Roaming with the Low Cost Providers, & Managed Retirement Accounts FTW? #730

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I exit a managed retirement account even though I have seven figures in there?

2 - Is there any benefit to paying off a mortgage earlier in the life of the loan as opposed to later?

3 - What should I keep in mind as the new owner of the house next to me is planning to rent it out?

4 - How should I approach a gun hobby spending disagreement with my spouse?

5 - International roaming with the low cost cellular providers- Mint Mobile or someone else?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Icelandic Arctic Lager by Einstok Olgerd! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Student Loan Payment Panic, Hottest Job Prospects, & Drug Discounts #729

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: negotiating a FAT raise, student loan payment panic, retailers nervous about declining consumer confidence, holiday hiring, jobs poised for the most growth, elusive medallion status, more mediocre media, inertia bias costing you monthly, drug discounts, & the best affordable new and used cars.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family First Entrepreneurship w/ Steve Chou #728

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

The term “hustle” might be synonymous with “entrepreneur” for a lot of folks. And they might be interchangeable because it certainly does take hard work to get your own business off the ground, but it doesn’t have to mean giving up everything else that’s important to you along the way. Steve Chou is our guest today and he’s launched multiple businesses- everything from an eCommerce site, to an online course, to an annual conference, and he wants everyone to consider how they can achieve financial freedom by starting their own businesses… but not the kinds of businesses where growing, scaling, and maximizing revenue is the goal. Instead it’s all about discovering a business that works for your goals and your lifestyle, and that’s what Steve writes about in his book The Family First Entrepreneur. We discuss coming up with an idea for a business, having priorities other than work, transitioning away from a day job, what holds some folks back from getting started, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Ubu Ale by Lake Placid Brewery- a big thanks to the RAD Coaches, Rebecca & Dylan! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Inflating the 25x Rule, Online Car Refinancing, & Affordable ADUs #727

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How should I account for inflation when using the 25x rule to forecast my retirement?

2 - Are sites like RateGenius and Autopay legit places to refinance my car?

3 - I have the cash on hand to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), but should I use a construction loan instead?

4 - Should I stick $6,500 into a Roth IRA, a Health Savings Account, or a 457b?

5 - Listener win: reaching out directly to a company resulted in cash in my mailbox!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Festbier by Bold Monk Brewing Co! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - EV Incentives, Fund Fee Battles, & Reward Deficiency Syndrome #726

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: silly celly carrier promos, total cost of iPhone ownership, ACH autopay tradeoffs, super off peak EV incentives, the best month to buy a home, fund fee battles, the shockingly simple math of compounding returns, financially illiterate kids, rewards deficiency syndrome, & short lived highs from stuff vs enduring fulfillment from relationships.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Debt-Free Degrees w/ Jason Brown #725

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Student loan debt is good, and credit card debt is bad… right? Well not so fast. What if an undergrad drops out halfway through school with no degree to show for it, and the credit card spender uses their card to pay for a car repair, which in turn allows them to keep their job? It’s not always a clear-cut answer! But with student loan repayments firing back up, we felt it was a good time to question whether student loans are even necessary at all. And we’re excited to talk with a friend of ours, Jason Brown, about how more folks should pursue a debt-free degree. Jason has firsthand experience having earned not only one, but two debt-free degrees and we discuss how you or your kids can do it as well. We discuss the changing value proposition of college, working multiple jobs, scholarship, employer education benefits, eschewing expensive dream schools, dual enrollment, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Prophetmaker by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Student Loan Forgiveness Gray Area, Getting an Umbrella Policy, & Investing in Gold #724

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - After recently purchasing a home, I’m having a difficult time budgeting… help!

2 - Should we pay on our student loans if we’re pretty sure they’ll be forgiven next year?

3 - Is gold and silver bullion a good investment?

4 - Umbrella insurance policies… when does it make sense to purchase one?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a PranQster by North Coast Brewing- thanks for donating this one to the podcast Greg! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Surge Pricing for Beer, Majors Over Pedigrees, & The Death of Privacy #723

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

***Beers on us, today at Inner Voice Brewing, 4-8pm, we'll see ya there!***

And speaking of beers, it’s time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: latest greatest iPhone, stickier high inflation, beer surge pricing, majors over pedigrees, investing in all the wrong ways, the downside of shopping for insurance coverage, (the death of) car privacy, fixed rates vs ARMs, & assumable mortgages.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Military to Millionaire w/ Lacey Langford #722

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Only 9% of young Americans have shown an interest in serving in the military according to the latest figures- we’ve seen a precipitous drop which means that our nation’s security could be at risk in the future. And not only that but when you look at it through a simple economic lens, the lower the supply (in this case of individuals willing to serve), the higher the benefits those individuals will receive. So not only are new enlistees fulfilling a patriotic duty, but they also have the opportunity to reap some serious financial rewards as well. That’s why we’re pumped to talk with Lacey Langford on the podcast- she’s a veteran, a milspouse, and an Accredited Financial Counselor with over 15 years of financial planning, counseling, and coaching experience. Today we talk about the host of financial benefits from serving our country and joining the military: Thrift Savings Plans, pensions, the GI Bill that pays for college and other training, tax avoidance, free healthcare, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a 100% Lambic Bio Geueze by Cantillon! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Work Provided Life Insurance, Compounding Returns with a 401k True-Up, & Selling a Home to an iBuyer #721

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I sell my house to an iBuyer?

2 - Is my work provided life insurance enough or should I go ahead and get an affordable policy while I’m young?

3 - My 401k has a ‘true-up’ feature but does investing just once, at the end of the year, stymie compounding returns?

4 - Does it make sense to build a brand new house and then rent it out as an investment property?

5 - How can I grow my podcast- how did y’all grow your podcast audience?!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Short-Term Rental Smackdown, Negative Nellies, & Donation Dilemmas #720

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our little sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: short-term rental smackdowns, Airbnb hosting considerations, zoning’s impact on the cost-of-housing crisis, negative nellies, more expensive health insurance, bankruptcy lawyers making bank, pros and cons of a cashless society, donation dilemmas, & proactively giving.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Time > Money w/ Ben Miller #719

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Renovating While Paying Off Student Loans, 529 Strategy For Immediate Use, & Popular Banks Get Downgraded #718

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How much cash should I keep liquid as I’m looking to renovate my home and pay off student loans?

2 - Are medical expenses incurred by my family members reimbursable via my health savings account, decades into the future?

3 - As a recent divorcee, should I use my emergency fund or a maturing CD to eliminate my credit card debt?

4 - Should I be concerned that my bank received a “negative outlook” by Moody’s?

5 - I’m getting my MBA and am wondering if I should save up those tuition dollars in a 529 account or my high yield savings?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a These Are Depictions of Yet Another Revolutionary Absence, which was a collaboration by Burial & 8th State! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Airfare-Booking Sweet Spot, Worthless Work, & 1% Down Mortgages #717

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: T-Mobile autopay workaround, flight-booking sweet spot, skiplaggers beware, fancy airline seat upgrades, utilizing Instacart to save, worthless work, autonomy over pay, 1% down mortgages, rate forecasts, dropping homeowners insurance to save, & the best time to buy an iPhone.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Avoid & Combat Crushing Medical Debt w/ Dr. Virgie #716

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Our guest today has a three step process that will ensure that you’re paying as little as possible for your medical care! This is good to know because the leading cause of personal bankruptcy is… you guessed it, medical bills! An estimated 100 million Americans have amassed nearly $200 billion in medical debt, and nearly 1 in 5 adults have medical debt in collections according to a study by the Journal of the American Medical Association. And that’s why we’re happy to have Dr. Virgie Bright Ellington joining us today- as a doctor and an insurance executive, she has had an inside look at our broken healthcare system, and her book: Crush Medical Debt, outlines the steps that we need to take to ensure that we’re not paying money that we don’t owe. We discuss the most common medical bill ‘errors’, why it’s important to ask for CPT codes, what to do with the CPT codes once you have them, how to avoid getting outrageous bills to begin with, and much more today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Paso Fino Porter by Horsefly Brewing- thanks to Marck and Kaitlyn for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Side Hustle Seed Money, A Luxury Sports Car Splurge, & Early Access To Retirement Funds #715

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I draw on my Thrift Savings Plan to use as seed money for my new business?

2 - What advice would you have for me as a 16 year old who wants to start investing now so I don’t have to work forever?

3 - Do y’all think it’s a good idea to pay $50,000 cash for a new car when I currently have a car loan?

4 - Are all of my Roth 401k funds accessible penalty free, before age 59.5, after rolling them to a Roth IRA?

5 - I’m currently in Money Gear #7, should I pay off my home early or invest over the next couple of years?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a JREAM by Burley Oak Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - TikTok Shop, Bitcoiners Beware, & Kitchen Appreciation Fees #714

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: AMC stockholder perks, kitchen appreciation surcharge, swelling swipe fees, credit card rewards potentially on the chopping block, Aldi acquisitions, ghostly gift cards, unwealthy stocks, Bitcoiners beware, TikTok Shop, girl math, & canceled cheap cars.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Radical Money Advice for Couples w/ the RadCoaches #713

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Finances get a little more complicated when a significant other enters the equation. There might be additional income which is nice, but don’t forget about their debt, emotional baggage around money, and independent financial goals which hopefully become shared goals! There’s no right or wrong way to do it, and that’s why we’re excited to hear from a couple- the married duo behind RadCoaches, Rebecca and Dylan! Like a lot of Americans today, they found themselves in a financial situation they were less than thrilled with, but what sets them apart is that they did something about it. Shortly after getting engaged they decided to take control of their finances and over the next 18 months they paid off over $45,000 of debt. During that process Rebecca and Dylan realized that the sense of financial freedom they were experiencing was something they wanted to share with others, and thus RadCoaches was born. We discuss better ways for couples to combine their money, what it means to be financially intimate, whether or not women specific financial advice is needed today, and plenty more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a White Angel by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Combining Our Finances, Dental Insurance Considerations, & When Whole Life Makes Sense #712

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - I’m considering getting dental insurance- is it worth it?

2 - Why should I invest when I’m making so much in my high yield savings account?

3 - Should I cancel my old whole life insurance policy?

4 - As an engaged couple, what are the best ways to budget and combine our finances?

5 - And a Frugal or Cheap: lemonade at the county fair edition!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Angel of Darkness by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Pet Debt, Job Hopping, & Goldilocks Cash #711

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: gas prices on the rise, pet debt, iguana insurance, travel insurance alternative, car value tracker tool, job hoppers beware, superfluous self storage, (not so) cheap junk, a guaranteed way to lose your money, & Goldilocks cash.

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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Small But Mighty Real Estate Investing w/ Chad Carson #710

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Ask HTM - Medical Bill Negotiation Sites, Choosing Between a Car or House, & A Bike Commuter Frugal or Cheap #709

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

We’re kicking off the week by answering listener questions! And if you have a question that you’d like for us to answer on the show, we’d love for you to submit your own via HowToMoney.com/ask , send us your voice memo. Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!

1 - Should I pay off my car loan early or use that money for a down payment on a house?

2 - Is Goodbill a legit medical bill negotiation site worth trying?

3 - As a travel nurse that doesn’t stay with any hospital all that long, how should I approach investing for retirement?

4 - My buddy thinks it’s weird that I pay $25 for a gym membership so I can shower after my bike commute to work- frugal or cheap?

5 - Is it worth depleting my IRA if I can avoid getting a pricey mortgage or even reduce the amount that I have to borrow?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Pale Ale by Wakuwaku Tezukuri Farm Kawakita- thanks for sending this one our way Julia! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Rusty Realtors, Insurance Issues, & Home Equity Expenditures #708

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: what lengths would you go for freebies, unemployment remains near historic lows, rusty realtors, realtor fees lawsuits, homeowners insurance issues, insurers pulling from Florida & California, Roth IRA FTW, disloyal to Disney, $1T on credit cards, and home equity expenditures.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Impending Student Loan Cliff #707

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

If you’ve got a weird colored mole on your shoulder that’s getting bigger- you should probably visit a dermatologist ASAP! Most health issues are best addressed sooner rather than later and you’re not doing yourself any favors by prolonging the inevitable. In fact, because you’ve kicked the can down the road so many times you might actually be worse off! And the same is true when it comes to student loans. The repayment pause was extended so many times that a third of borrowers spent the money that was previously going towards their student loans because they didn’t believe payments would resume. Well payments are resuming, but not without some relief from the new SAVE repayment plan. Today we cover what types of loans are impacted, how you can enroll, and calculating the maximum amount that you’ll pay. We’ll also cover smart ways that you can shop around for a degree, whether the “first year’s salary” rule of thumb still applies, and how your employer is eligible to pay off $5,250 annually of your student loans.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an IPA by Wakuwaku Tezukuri Farm Kawakita- thanks for sending this one our way Julia! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Employer Matched Vacation Savings, Free Credit Card Cell Phone Insurance, & Assumable Mortgages #706

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - My mom bought me a single DRIP stock when I was a kid- should I sell or hang onto it?

2 - Can I fund a brokerage account for my niece that pays dividends, in order for her to set up a Roth IRA?

3 - Should I take advantage of a vacation savings match that’s offered by my employer?

4 - Cell phone insurance that comes with credit cards: does it apply if you pay your bill annually as opposed to monthly?

5 - Is an assumable mortgage a legit way to find an affordable home?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Koshihikari Ale by Wakuwaku Tezukuri Farm Kawakita- thanks for sending this one our way Julia! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Sneaky BNPL Loans, Crowdfunding Kerfuffles, & America’s Credit Downgrade #705

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: free figs, asking for a discount, signing up for SAVE, sneaky buy-now-pay-later loans, septennial car loans, pricey public water works, lousy landlines, crowdfunding kerfuffles, America’s credit downgrade, & pouring one out for Republic Wireless.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wives & Money... Part V #704

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Emily and Kate are here to give you all the dirt! Not really, but they have graciously agreed to sit down with us, the dorky husbands, to help answer listener questions that we fielded from our Facebook group. Specifically during this episode we talk about expensive vacations, challenges we’ve faced having uprooted our families over the past year, shifting household roles with grad school, resolving our own financial conflicts, combining our finances when we first got married, the ways we communicate financial goals, whether the wives know where all of our money and accounts are, favorite stores to shop, justifying luxury spending, financial impact of having kids, and plenty more!

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we all enjoyed a Madame Rose by Goose Island! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Free Family Travel w/ Lyn Mettler #703

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Unspoken Rules Of Career Success w/ Gorick Ng (Bestie Ep) #702

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Excelling in your career depends on more than just doing a great job. Just because you’re a decent software engineer, or you get the job done as a nurse- that doesn’t mean that you’ll quickly rise through the ranks. Nor does it mean you’ll automatically see big raises or year-end bonuses! That’s because there are things that managers and bosses expect of you, but they’re never explained to you. This is the basis for Gorick Ng’s best-selling book, “The Unspoken Rules: Secrets to Starting Your Career Off Right.” Gorick is a career adviser at Harvard, focusing on coaching first-generation, low-income students. But before that, he gained plenty of professional experience from working in management consulting, investment banking, and as a researcher with the Harvard Business School. Regardless of your specific job, there are plenty of soft skills and unspoken rules that you need to discover, in order to find success in your career.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we both enjoyed a Belgian Aloha by Olentangy River Brewing- thanks Scott for donating this one to the podcast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if You Won the Lottery? (Bestie Ep) #701

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Winning the lottery shouldn’t be a part of your financial plan- but why are we so enthralled by the idea of winning the lottery?! On average, Americans spend over $1,000 every year for the chance to strike it rich. That’s a lot of wasted money that could be going towards literal investments. But even though we’re not going to win millions, statistically speaking, this exercise can provide some insights about the ways we want to spend our money and our time. This is helpful because there is a much higher likelihood that we would experience some sort of windfall in our lives whether that be a bonus at work, proceeds from a home sale, or even an inheritance. And if we haven’t taken the time to think through what we would do in these scenarios, there’s a good chance we could make the wrong decision in the heat of the moment. We’re going to get personal and share what we would do if we won the lottery, and we’re also going to explain how you can come up with your own money mission statement.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Crucial Crucial Taunt Taunt Enhanced by The Veil Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Home Warranties, Paying Extra on a Mortgage vs Investing, & Marketing a Side Business #700

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - With a 7% mortgage, should I pay extra towards my house or invest in the stock market instead?

2 - Is a home warranty worth the money?

3 - Can I choose where I open my 401k or Roth IRA as I’m just getting started investing?

4 - Is it possible to make HSA contributions when you’re on a health sharing plan?

5 - Do you have some marketing ideas as I’m trying to ramp up my photography business?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Data Loss by Halfway Crooks! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - BOA on Blast, Second Home Slip-ups, & Buses are Back #699

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: reaching out to state insurance commissioners, BOA on blast, savers bouncing to better banks, investing in your company stock, second home slip-ups, final sale buyer beware, opting for older models to save, lower car prices ahead, tighter auto lending standards, & buses are back.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The High Cost of Crappy Credit #698

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why You Need a Money Coach in Your Corner w/ Ericka Young (Bestie Ep) #697

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

It’s time to get your financial butt in shape! Our guest today, Ericka Young, is the financial coach that she never had! As a newlywed couple, Ericka and her husband discovered that it’s actually pretty easy to become just like the average US household that now has over $150,000 in debt. It’s the norm and if you don’t have a plan to avoid debt, you will likely find yourself falling into that trap! But that’s not the path that Ericka continued along- she was determined to change her family tree, and now helps others who are seeking financial freedom in their lives. Ericka started her company, Tailor-Made Budgets where she creates custom plans for her clients that give them the tools and the knowledge to cut their stress levels by increasing their savings and decreasing their debt. We get to hear Ericka’s debt story, how she was able to leave a high paying engineering job, signs that someone might need a financial coach, what it looks like to face your financial reality, how she helps her clients think through making trade-offs, and why friends may not be enough of an accountability partner.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Where I Want To Be Deciduous Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joel's $ Origin Story (Bestie Ep) #696

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Better know a podcast host! Oftentimes here on the podcast we talk about our daily lives. We’ll share little ways that we’re saving money, or you get to hear about our curb alert scores, and we might even talk a little too much about how much we’re riding our bikes. So if you’ve been listening for a few years you might know a good bit about us- that happens after nearly 700 episodes! But we’ve never done a deep-dive origin story on the show and what better time to do that than here at the beginning of the year. So during this episode you’ll get to learn all about Joel’s money origin story- favorite jobs as a kid, how a bankruptcy shaped his early perceptions of personal finance, switching colleges to avoid taking on more student loans, his splurge as a single professional, and pursuing financial independence through investing in real estate.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Woodland Pursuit by Humble Forager! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt's $ Origin Story (Bestie Ep) #695

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Oftentimes here on the podcast we talk about our daily lives. We’ll share little ways that we’re saving money, or you get to hear about our curb alert scores, and we might even talk a little too much about how much we’re riding our bikes. So if you’ve been listening for a few years you might know a good bit about us- that happens after nearly 700 episodes! But we’ve never done a deep-dive origin story on the show and what better time to do that than here at the beginning of the year. Especially as we’re likely welcoming some new listeners to the fold. So during this episode you’ll get to learn all about Matt’s money origin story- how he was taught personal finance principles, his money struggles growing up, why he shouldn’t have opened a Roth IRA, and how Downton Abbey helped Matt and his wife Kate discover financial independence.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Athena Paradiso Blackberry by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Prepaid College Plans, Maturing Savings Bonds, & Settling the Roth vs Trad 401k Debate #694

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Are prepaid college plans a good deal or should I stick with a traditional 529 account?

2 - What should I do with some EE savings bonds that are maturing?

3 - Is college a good time for my kid to get a credit card and how important is building up his credit score?

4 - Do you guys like “return of premium” life insurance policies?

5 - Roth vs a traditional 401k - which one should I contribute to?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Var by Halfway Crooks! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Student Loans (un)Forgiven, Shamed Spenders, & Geographic Arbitrage #693

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: prepared for Prime Day, student loans (un)forgiven, details of the SAVE plan, FTC targeting fake reviews, shamed spenders, debt counseling, geographic arbitrage, charitable giving on the decline, and optimizing your giving with Daffy.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Independence Exists on a Spectrum #692

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why Is Insurance So Funky? with Amy Finkelstein #691

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Purchasing an insurance policy is one of those seemingly boring tasks that accompanies entering adulthood. Whether it was your parents making you chip in on the higher costs of car insurance because they were now insuring a teenage driver, or seeing the health insurance deduction come out of your paycheck every two weeks. Or maybe it’s realizing that you now have folks who are dependent on your income so it’s finally time to purchase a life insurance policy. Regardless, it’s often thought of as a dull task but our guest, Amy Finkelstein, is here today to explain why insurance is more fascinating than we realize! Amy is a distinguished professor of economics at MIT, she’s a co-director at the National Bureau of Economic Research, she’s won the MacArthur Genius Grant, and now she’s written a book, “Risky Business: Why Insurance Markets Fail and What to Do About It.” In our conversation today we talk about the imperfect insurance market, the purpose of waiting periods, the types of insurance policies we should think long and hard about, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kon Tiki Triple IPA by LA Ale Works. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Costco’s Crackdown, Bad Vibes, & Forgotten 401k Accounts #690

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: student loan clarity with the Chipper app, bad consumer sentiment vibes, resisting rising property taxes, YES in my backyard, Airbnb feeling the squeeze, how do I lose thee? (crypto) let me count the ways, Amazon ‘dark patterns’, forgotten 401k accounts, & Costco’s crackdown.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Complicated Should Investing Be? #689

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Ask HTM - Paying Off Student Loans Without Dinging My Credit, DIY Tax Loss Harvesting, & Financially Preparing for a Baby #688

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - With the payment pause ending, how do I approach paying off my student loans while maintaining my credit score?

2 - Why do I need to save medical receipts for my HSA? And another: Should I tap my brokerage account for a home down payment?

3 - My car insurance rates have skyrocketed! What can I do to keep those premiums in check?

4 - We’re expecting… some big medical bills- how can we be financially prepared for having a baby?

5 - Can I DIY tax loss harvesting or is that something worth paying a financial advisor for?

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During this episode we enjoyed a A Generous Characterization of Those You Remember Otherwise by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Fight and WIN Against Insane Healthcare Costs w/ Marshall Allen (Bestie Ep) #687

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Marshall Allen is a journalist who investigates why we pay so much for healthcare here in America, while simultaneously we receive so little in return. He is the author of “Never Pay the First Bill: And Other Ways to Fight the Health Care System and Win” and he is also the founder of Allen Health Academy, which produces a curriculum of short on-demand videos to equip and empower employees to navigate the healthcare system. Marshall has been investigating the healthcare industry for 15 years, including over a decade at ProPublica. He also teaches investigative reporting at the Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York. We highly recommend that you listen to this episode if you’re looking for practical ways to reduce how much you’re spending on medical costs!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Fade Away by Cruz Blanca Brewery - thanks to Dennis and our friends at the brewery for donating this one to the podcast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Workplace Whiplash: Hybrid Work is Here to Stay #686

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

The last thing you want to do when hydroplaning on a flooded road is to overcorrect, potentially sending your car veering into the opposite direction, leading to a crash. Going from one extreme to another can often lead to more harm, or at the very least it can be frustrating and that’s where the ‘laptop class’ has found itself over the past 3 years since the pandemic. We went from typical pre-pan office life when we were all none the wiser, to ‘the death of the office’ where many were working from home, and now there’s a widespread movement to finally get employees back into the office. We’re calling it workplace whiplash because we think both extremes leave something to be desired- there are certainly benefits to be had from going into the office like increased productivity and even higher levels of social health. But there are also major drawbacks to office life in the form of losses in time, health, and money. So, what should you do if your boss says it’s time to come back to the office? We discuss all that and more in today's episode!

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During this episode we enjoyed A Quite Ostentatious Testimony of Nonsequiteur by Burial. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food Stamps to Financial Freedom with Yanely, aka MissBeHelpful #685

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Rents are Receding, The Bull is Back, & Legit Free Cell Service #684

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: how the CFPB is following our lead, teens making bank, electricians making a SHOCKING amount (yep), Uber Carsharing paying out, car insurance continues to climb, crypto policing, the bull is back, rents are receding, leasing an EV could make sense, EV tax credits, & some legit free cell service.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unique & Delightful Credit Card Benefits #683

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

When was the last time you were delighted by something or someone?! For Joel, it was when the tree removal company came back out to his house to re-tarp his roof AND they refunded him for it. That’s some Aldi twice-as-nice-guarantee action right there. Not only did they correct the mistake but they went above and beyond to make sure he was happy. And I think that ‘unexpectedness’ is what makes something truly delightful- when it’s a surprise. And similarly when it comes to credit cards we all know of the basic bonuses and cashback, but when you’re able to score a benefit that you weren’t expecting- that’s when the delight kicks in. And that’s what we’re discussing today- some of the lesser known but truly fun and beneficial perks to using credit cards.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Jammiest Bits of Jam by Sour Cellars! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Diagnosable Money Disorders, Rising Home Values vs Wage Growth, & Saving with a 1031 Exchange #682

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - How should I respond to a girlfriend who is diagnosing my insecurities around money?

2 - Wages aren’t keeping up with rising home values- what should first time home buyers do?

3 - I’m investing some, I don’t have any savings, and I have some debt- what should I do with my money?

4 - Can I take advantage of a 1031 exchange in order to cut capital gains tax on some real estate?

5 - Should I sell my car in order to finally pay off some lingering credit card debt?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Pyrotechnic Pleasantries by Sour Cellars! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - T Swift Tourism, Prime Perks, & Apple Breaks the Bank #681

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil them down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: $3 movies, T Swift Tourism, the Messi Effect, Apple breaking the bank, instant ACH transfers, DoorDashOffWithYourMoney, Costco meat indicator, $1,000,000,000,000 in credit card debt, Prime Perks, haggling for discounts, 1% mortgage down payments, & WTD with that home equity.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Diminishing Returns of Frugality #680

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating the Kinda Crazy Car Market with Car Dealership Guy #679

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Used cars have APPRECIATED in value! This has never happened before and is a result of the upended car market that we’ve experienced over the past few years. And with this volatility comes a set of new challenges to navigate if you’re looking to buy or even sell a car. But fortunately for us we’re joined by our first anonymous guest on the podcast: Car Dealership Guy, who has blown up on Twitter thanks to his insider knowledge and consumer friendly advice on automobiles. CDG has been in the industry for years- starting out selling cars out on the lot to owning his own dealership and he’s now the go-to car market expert to help consumers understand whats going on. He has a podcast and he sends out car market insights to over 45,000 folks via his newsletter. We discuss how the car market got to where it is today, car manufacturers that are struggling the most, buying from a private seller vs online vs dealerships, how a trade-in might actually make sense, and much more today with the Car Dealership Guy.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Hop Reach IPA by Allagash. And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Payments UNpaused, CD Laddering, & Caseless Crazies #678

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: medical tourism frugal or cheap, student loan payments UNpaused, all the ways to budget, the rise of CD laddering, (not so) tiny homes, caseless crazies, all you can watch buffet, index funds vs Nvidia, and everything about cars is more expensive.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dirty Truth About Home Ownership #677

Wed, 31 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Job Pay vs Job Passion, TikTok Mortgage Hack, & Investing More with an IUL Policy #676

Mon, 29 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - After draining my savings to buy a home, what high yield accounts or software do you recommend to help replenish my emergency fund?

2 - More pay or more passion: how do you choose when considering a new job?

3 - Should I try a TikTok mortgage hack that puts my interest on pause?

4 - What steps should I take with my 18 year old to ensure he’s on the path to financial success?

5 - Does it make sense to get an indexed universal life insurance policy in order to boost my ability to invest?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Delusional Deformities by Burial Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Customer Centric Companies, Password Panic, & The Worst Time to Travel #675

Fri, 26 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: new HSA contribution limits, inertia bias leading to wasted premiums, free tax filing on the horizon, DM to save, customer centric companies, the death of ownership, DIY repairs that can kill, password panic, more affordable vacations, & the worst time to travel.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overcoming Our Idiot Brains #674

Wed, 24 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life After Financial Independence w/ The Mad Fientist #673

Mon, 22 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Returning Rags, Debt Ceiling Standoff, & Gold in the Attic #672

Fri, 19 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: (non-existent) household debt ceiling, breakfast back on the menu, freemium services getting the squeeze, a free 55” Telly, valuable VHSs, “make an offer” to save, returning rags, a coffee conundrum, bikes at a bargain, dreams of down payments, & extreme ways to lower your utilities.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Post-Graduation Money Advice for the Real World #671

Wed, 17 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Getting your driver’s license was a liberating milestone worth celebrating because it meant you no longer needed your parents to drop you off at work, or it meant that your friends didn’t need to pick you up to hang out- you had some freedom to do what you wanted! It was a period of life that was likely accompanied by significant change that we can only truly appreciate in hindsight. And as fun as it was to drive on your own for the first time, graduating high school or college is an even more momentous occasion that comes with the ability to change your trajectory in life. Or to even chart a new course that’s completely different from the one you’ve been on- in a way it’s a fresh start. And this extends to money as well because if you follow the right advice at this critical juncture, you have the ability to drastically change how your personal finances are going to look just 5 or 10 years from now. You could end up loaded with debt or you could be well along the path towards financial independence. But one of the problems is that we often don’t have a plan when it comes to our finances. So that’s what we’re discussing today: the relationship between time and money especially when you’re younger, using your money to minimize regrets, upgrading your life on purpose, and the most time-tested ways to invest your money.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed The Taken by Casa Agria x There Does Not Exist! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Credit Card Strategies for Max Benefits, Keeping/Ditching a Beloved Car, & All-Cash Home Buyers #670

Mon, 15 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - We’re converting our primary residence into our first rental property: should we hire a property manager?

2 - Should I put all of our living expenses on a 0% credit card and invest the money instead?

3 - How do I know when it’s time to switch from investing to spending my nest egg?

4 - I have a beloved Mini Cooper Countryman: should I sell it in order to achieve financial stability?

5 - Does it ever make sense to sell my house via an all-cash offer?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Spring Thrills by Pizza Port Brewing- thanks to our buddy Joel for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Tyrannical Tipping, Insurance Increases, & Trading All The Time #669

Fri, 12 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: highlights from our Scotland trip, tyrannical tipping, day (and night) trading, degree requirements getting dropped, white collar apprenticeships, transfer student transgressions, stressing over your money’s safety, hiring and pay freezes, car insurance increases, fewer folks with life insurance, & medical debt dropping from credit reports.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Pessimism Will Eat You Alive #668

Wed, 10 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Good Enough Job with Simone Stolzoff #667

Mon, 08 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jet-Setting for Little to No Money w/ The Points Guy Brian Kelly (Bestie Ep) #666

Fri, 05 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Since we’re taking a little vacation over in Scotland, we thought it would be a good time to re-release this episode on how you can travel for little to no money. Brian Kelly, The Points Guy himself, is joining us today on the podcast! If you’ve ever attempted some research on airline miles or credit card reward points, then there’s a good chance you’ve read an article or two over at ThePointsGuy.com. Bryan has an entire staff of writers who are all travel experts- from offices in Austin, to NY, all the way over to London. Which of course frees Bryan up to be able to spend even more of his time participating in his favorite activity- traveling. Listen as Brian shares why he’s willing to pay annual fees on 25 credit cards, what you should do if you have existing airline points, what he thinks about cashback credit cards, how to maximize the number of points you can earn, his favorite perks and benefits of travel cards, and finally his thoughts on traveling with a new baby!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Elephants on Parade by Bosque Brewing- a big thanks to Bob in New Mexico for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Preparing for a Layoff Tidal Wave #665

Wed, 03 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

“Prepare the child for the road, don’t prepare the road for the child”. This is an old adage that you may, or may not agree with- but regardless, all parents understand that there is a vanishingly small window of time that they have to equip their children for the hardships they’re going to encounter in life. We don’t know exactly what kinds of crazy stuff our kids are going to encounter in the world, but we want them to be prepared for it! And the same thing is true when someone loses a job. It’s hard to know when or even if a layoff is coming, but we still have the ability to prepare ahead of time. The truth is that layoffs are happening, Fed rate hikes continue to restrain the economy, and a recession might be on the horizon. Even if the economy as a whole doesn’t tank anytime soon, there’s always the possibility that your specific company, or even your department, could be looking to cut back. So we offer our thoughts on what moves you should be making with your career, what you should be doing with your personal finances, and ultimately how to make yourself not layoff-proof, but layoff-resistant.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Absolute Brightness by Ology Brewing in Tampa- thanks Jaimie for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Hanging Onto A Car Loan, Small Purchases That Spark Joy, & Maximizing HSA Benefits #664

Mon, 01 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I freeze my 1 year old’s credit, and if so, how do I do that?

2 - I’m thinking about hanging onto a car loan and putting my cash in high yield savings- is this a smart move?

3 - In the HTM Money Mission Statement, why do y’all ask about small purchases that bring joy as opposed to larger purchases?

4 - What should I do with an old HSA that I’m no longer contributing to?

5 - Our FSA reimbursement dollars will be hitting our account soon- what should we do with that money?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Rainbow Colored Glasses by Ology Brewing in Tampa- thanks Jaimie for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Credit Contradictions, Lasagna On Layaway, & No More Bolt #663

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: getting paid to move, credit contradictions, more affordable mortgages, avoiding green loans, affordable used cars, RIP Bolt, small business 401k offerings getting big, poor stock picker performance, fortune tellers or financial advisors, free fixes for your broken stuff, gadgets to gift cards, blowing your budget on surplus food, Matt’s beef with Frankie, and lasagna on layaway.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who Wants to Literally Be a Millionaire? #662

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cheap Meal Prep For Struggling Chefs w/ Frankie Celenza #661

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - The New Apple iBank, Generational Disparagement, & Culinary Culprits #660

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Amazon crappy item alert, $1 for returns, credit card rewards bonanza, the new Apple iBank, I bonds are losing their luster, generational disparagement, the myth of the broke millennial, culinary culprits, affordable EVs, & receding rents.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Accidents & Insurance & Deductibles, Oh My! #659

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Waiting to Pay Monthly Bills, Whether Invested Dollars are Safe, & Buying a Parent's House #658

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I buy my parent’s house?!

2 - What account should I move my old 401k dollars over to?

3 - I’m afraid I haven’t saved enough money for my kids- what singular account should I sock away funds into?

4 - Does it make sense to handle my personal finances like businesses do, and wait to pay my bills until just before they’re due?

5 - Are my invested dollars safe if my brokerage firm goes belly up?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Supplication by Russian River! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - AI Tax Help, Lawless Libraries, & Mortgaged Forevermore #657

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: state representative passport assistance, AI tax help, scoring a 0% capital gains rate, lawless local libraries, paying extra to join distant libraries, costly kids meals, $10 Sam’s Club memberships, investing in risky alternative assets, Google flight price guarantee, mortgaged forevermore, worthless car warranties, & EV battery dependability.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Using Energy Tax Credits To Your Advantage #656

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Folks will do some crazy things for money! There was an article in The Free Press about human lab rats and the lengths they go in order to make a buck. They’re getting injections, taking pills, oftentimes they can’t leave the building, they’re subject to large amounts of blood being drawn, and this can happen for weeks at a time! But the bottom line is that incentives matter and you might be surprised at what you’d do if there was enough money on the line. Well, making sure that your home is more efficient has never been a bad idea like taking experimental drugs, but now it might be a much better one thanks to increased federal tax credits. We know that making our homes more energy efficient will save us money every month- but how much money could we actually save? And how much money will we be able to get in federal tax credits? Today we discuss how the incentives have gotten sweeter, what the annual credits are for the different upgrades you can make, how to decide if you should make them at all, and then what form you’ll need to fill out to claim the credits.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Bibo by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Demolishing College Costs with Ann Garcia #655

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Over the last 20 years, college tuition and fees have exploded- increasing by nearly 180% to the chagrin of many parents and high school seniors. But it turns out that you don’t have to pay that overinflated sticker price of a higher education. That’s what we discuss during today’s conversation with Ann Garcia, who is also known as The College Financial Lady. That’s the name of her site, where she also has a masterclass, and her book: “How to Pay for College” covers all the strategies you need to deploy in order to get your kid through college without wrecking your retirement. We discuss some of the surprising benefits of higher education, negotiating the costs of attending college, how to compare award letters from multiple schools, the proper way to view non-institutional scholarships, ways to start college-adjacent conversations with your kids, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Spontanale by Mikkeller Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Tax Extensions, Click to Cancel, & The Value of Money #654

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: tax extension season, housing prices are dropping, ADUs on the rise, whether you should renovate or move, choosing money over passion, 401k cashouts, click to cancel, rotten Apple Pay Later, taking advantage of dynamic pricing, and the value of money.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Gears: Ordering Your Money Decisions Properly #653

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Downsides to the Upside App, Carrying Over Out-Of-Pocket Medical Expenses, & Ignoring Mom's Financial Advice #652

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Considering that my mom is a multimillionaire, should I listen to her personal finance and real estate advice even if I disagree?

2 - Do you have any books or recommendations for a teenager who is moving out on her own?

3 - What is the best platform to easily collect rent payments?

4 - Can I carry over any out-of-pocket medical expenses to a new health insurance plan?

5 - Are there any downsides to the Upside App- is it legit or too good to be true?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a So Happens It’s Tuesday by The Bruery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Costly Car Insurance, Crypto Cons, & Incredible I Bonds #651

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: that new Aldi drip, credit bureau complaints, credit score impacting mortgage payments, costly car insurance, exploitive title loans, crypto cons, the quest to burnish Bitcoin, investment scams targeting the youths, earning more on medium term savings, and CDs yes please!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Understated Power of Stealth Wealth #650

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Clark Kent has a nerdy newspaper job, he’s got thick glasses- he’s definitely not cool in the city of Metropolis. But when he pulls back the white button up, he’s a beast and becomes Superman! He has superhuman strength, heat vision, freeze breath, and all sorts of special powers that allow him to kick butt and save the world. But Clark Kent doesn’t need everyone to know what he’s capable of- his power is understated and somewhat disconnected from his everyday life. And when it comes to our finances, there’s massive power that we hold as individuals when we don’t feel the need to signal to others what we’re capable of. We gain a degree of financial freedom, a life with less stress, and ultimately a sense of happiness and contentment that doesn’t come from the approval of others. Listen as we discuss how you can practice stealth wealth and achieve it as a goal in your life.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Copper by The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery- a big thanks to Greg for donating this one to the podcast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get Paid What You’re Worth with Alex Carter #649

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Today’s conversation is all about getting that raise that you deserve! We’re joined by Alex Carter who is a Clinical Professor of Law and the Director of the Mediation Clinic at Columbia Law School. She is also a leading trainer on negotiation and mediation for many from the private and public sectors, including the United Nations, U.S. courts and federal agencies, and private corporations such as Bloomberg, Amazon, and Microsoft. So that means Alex is more than qualified to have written the book, Ask for More: Ten Questions to Negotiate Anything. Listen and learn why negotiating isn’t adversarial in nature, overcoming fear and anxiety when discussing pay, why asking questions is better than arguing, tangible and intangible benefits you can fight for, the best time to negotiate a severance package, and so much more during this invaluable conversation with Alex!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed a Didjits by Burnt Hickory- a big thanks to Kara for donating this one to the podcast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Toxic Ticketmaster, Water Waste, & Macron’s Mission #648

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: your craft beer equivalent, J Powell sticks to his guns, banking fees on the decline, toxic Ticketmaster, needing more competition in free markets, water waste, postponed passports, stalled social security, costly cellular service, & the acquisition of Mint Mobile.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Harsh Realities of Real Estate Investing #647

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Is homeschooling the best move for your family? Maybe!? That depends on so many factors like your family values, the goals for your career, what resources are available to you, and even what school your kids are currently attending. We’re both products of basic public schooling, but it’s a topical question as the percentage of children who are homeschooled has basically doubled in the past few years- but, homeschooling isn’t a slam dunk decision. And the same is true on the real estate investing front. We love that path for some people and it’s a strategy that has worked out well for us. You’ve heard of real estate moguls who’ve made millions ‘in real estate’ and maybe the algorithm is even feeding you social media influencers who are claiming that it’s so easy. Well today we have a nuanced conversation to help you to determine if it’s right for you or not. We discuss how the real estate market has evolved over the past decade, some of the cons in addition to pros of becoming a landlord, some alternative ways to invest in real estate that are essentially passive, as well as some lower risk ways to wade into the waters of investing in real estate.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an US Alive by Mikkeller Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - 1.5x Speed on Savings Goals, Free Tax Prep Software, & Too Old to Invest? #646

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Reaching my different savings goals is taking too long- how can I speed things up?!

2 - Should I use a 529 account rollover to increase how much I can sock away into my Roth IRA?

3 - What’s the best account that I can set up for my one year old daughter before she has earned income?

4 - Are the free tax prep software companies and websites legit?

5 - When is it too late to invest in the stock market?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

During this episode we enjoyed an Infrared Eclipse by Rhinegeist Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Bank Blow-Ups, Is Your Money Safe, & Plastered Purchases #645

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Costco refunds, asking for a discount, bank blow-ups, whether your money is safe, how to score more FDIC coverage, where rates might be headed, AI financial advice, plastered purchases, in-app purchases cost you more, and a big thanks to Argentina M for telling others about the HTM Newsletter that we publish every Tuesday morning- it’s fun, free, practical, and we think it’ll help you to get ahead with your money!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reacting Rationally to Rising Rates #644

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

What one thing do we all do before we put our clothes on in the morning? We all check the weather! Because which clothes we opt to wear is largely dependent on what the sun is doing- whether it’s out and burning our skin, or if it’s hidden away behind some ominous rain clouds. And in fact, the changing seasons and fickle nature of the weather impact us in a variety of ways. They change our behavior and determine what sports we get to play, or what flowers and vegetables we plant in the garden. And simply put, the Federal Reserve interest rate is the financial sun that ultimately impacts all of our financial lives. Whether or not rates are rising or falling impact everything from the payments we make on our credit cards, to the interest we receive in our high yield savings accounts. And so during today’s episode we’re equipping you with the knowledge and practical steps so that you can minimize the downsides, while maximizing the upsides of rising rates.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Use It Up, Wear It Out, Make It Do, or Do Without with Katy Wolk-Stanley #643

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Student Loan Silly Season, Revenge Spending, & Entrepreneurship Everywhere All at Once #642

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: entrepreneurship everywhere all at once, student loan drama, more paid apprenticeships, degrees overseas, soft skills supreme, proliferating perks of credit cards, gift cards galore, revenge spending, as well as rapidly rising car debt and delinquencies.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buffettisms: Lessons from the GOAT Investor #641

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Who is the greatest actor of all time? You might have an opinion- maybe it’s Meryl Streep or Daniel Day-Lewis, but this would likely lead to a pretty fierce debate. And the same could be said about athletes- who is the greatest? Is it Michael Jordan or Michael Phelps? Well it depends on who you’re asking because it’s in the eye of the beholder to a certain extent. We all want to know what sets the greatest in their given field apart from the ones who were just really good. Luckily the greatest investor conversation isn’t nearly as fraught. Warren Buffett is the GOAT in our eyes and we’re certainly not alone in that assumption. And it’s not only due to the returns he’s garnered- his longevity, consistency, and humility are admirable as well. So today we’re going to talk about the GOAT investor and what financial, and life lessons we can learn from him. How you should approach your investments, how long you should be holding them, and what you should be investing in are just a few questions we’ll answer today.

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During this episode we enjoyed a Blender Black-Ras by New Park Brewing- thanks for donating this one to the pod Matthieu! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Expensive Family Vacations, Making Extra Mortgage Payments, & Forfeiting Credit Card Rewards #640

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - My family vacations are getting too expensive and I’m not sure I can attend- what should I do?

2 - As an 11 year old, how should I save or spend $2,000 that I have in my bank account?

3 - What is the most optimal way to make extra payments and pay off my mortgage early?

4 - Am I paying off my credit card too soon in order to receive the points and rewards?

5 - How much money do I need to have invested in order to retire?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Double Coud IPA by New Park Brewing- thanks for donating this one to the pod Matthieu! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Junking Fees, Costly Casas, & Procrastination Penalties #639

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: Google Lens to snag a deal, junking fees, reduced monthly insurance costs for FHA backed mortgages, costly casas due to low inventory, HGTVification of the housing market, renting on standby, the death of customer service, our favorite wireless provider takes home gold, the rise of 4-day workweeks, breaking the fever of workism, investing procrastination penalties, & screaming tooth fairy payouts.

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Is Early Retirement A Smart Goal? #638

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

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Using Debt to Build Wealth with Tom Anderson #637

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Virtually all conventional wisdom points folks in the direction of paying off their debt. “Debt is dumb” is a line you’ll hear after listening to most personal finance podcasts for about 30 seconds. It's the mantra and driving force behind many money experts out there. But our guest today wants money savvy folks to take another look, and to reconsider debt. Tom Anderson is the author of the NYT best seller “The Value of Debt” and he has actually written multiple books on the different ways that we can utilize debt to build wealth. While most financial planning experts are only looking at debt as something to be eliminated, Tom advocates for the strategic use of debt. Listen as we discuss optimal debt ratios, the importance of liquidity, the psychological reality of debt, and plenty more on today’s episode!

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Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Helles Lager by New Park Brewing- thanks, Matthieu!! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Erupting Equity, Apprenticeships that Pay, & Scammy Savings #636

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: a helpful Apple Card feature, apprenticeships that pay, prepping for student loans, Rivian bikes, e-bike rebates, expensive babysitters, end of life plans for your electronics, scammy high interest savings, erupting equity, & disappearing flexible spending dollars.

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Butchering Your Grocery Bill #635

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Ask HTM - Personal Loans for a Crypto Biz, Travel Nursing FTW, & Small Business Benefits #634

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - I took out personal loans to start a BTC mining business: should I use Roth contributions to pay them off?

2 - Should I pursue travel nursing in order to double my salary?

3 - As a teacher, can I afford to invest more aggressively since I have a pension?

4 - Investing via Acorns: smart move or should I consider other providers?

5 - What are some benefits or tax write-offs as we’ve started a new business?

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During this episode we enjoyed a Lindemans Framboise! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Cheating Charities, Sketchy Retailer Tactics, & Starving to Save #633

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: newsletter referral program rewards and shoutouts, tax-free state relief payments, free money for home improvements, how to appeal your property tax assessment, the worst way to invest, using or losing your points, cheating charities, starving to save, sketchy retailer tactics, & the myth of the informed consumer.

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Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

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Did the Pandemic Change Personal Finance? #632

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Cults are fascinating. The amount of gaslighting and denial of reality that takes place in order to perpetuate the movement is simply mind boggling. And one of the most interesting parts is to see interviews with the folks who finally got out. For years they couldn’t see clearly as they were essentially brainwashed, but now they look back on everything they experienced in a completely different light. When you’re in the midst of something so enveloping and all-consuming it can be difficult to know your right from your left, to know the difference between truth and lies. And similarly it can be difficult to discern the magnitude and scope of the impact of something like a global pandemic on our lives until some time has passed. But now that we had a few years between us and lockdowns, we wanted to discuss the specific ways in which Covid 19 has jolted personal finance and how we should respond to those changes.

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Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Mango Funk Yoself by Meddlesome Brewing- thanks Ben & Rachael for donating this one to the podcast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Solutions for Money Anxiety with Financial Therapist Lindsay, Bryan-Podvin #631

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Netflix Crackdown, Big Game Gambling, & Reduced Tax Refunds #630

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for a Friday Flight- our sampling of the week’s financial news and what it means for your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we boil it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: newsletter referral program rewards and shoutouts, Netflix crackdown, movie theater priority seating, investing through a bear market, 401k raiders, ESG funds falling short, avoiding the officejet shakedown, big game gambling, Valentine’s Day outlay, financial infidelity, & reduced tax refunds.

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Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

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Using Credit Cards as Nature Intended #629

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

"He was a wise man who invented beer." - Plato

If you’ve been listening for any length of time you know that we like craft beer. But booze can be a polarizing subject. We’ve had emails from folks who say they like our show, but just can’t continue to listen because of our stance on alcohol. At least in some circles, beer can be polarizing and the same thing is true when it comes to the use of credit cards. There isn’t much logical, nuanced, or balanced conversation when it comes to credit cards- they’re either the greatest thing since sliced bread or they’ll ruin you overnight. But the reality is a bit more nuanced. Yes, there are certainly a number of downsides to using credit cards like paying interest and how they might encourage overspending which we’ll discuss today. We’ll also cover if we think using credit cards is ethical. But simultaneously you can’t deny the many benefits that come with responsible credit card use: the ability to help establish a solid credit score, the additional consumer protections they offer, the bountiful rewards, and much more. Plus we’ll explain a basic three card optimization strategy that will work for most folks- have a listen!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed The Judge by Memphis Made Brewing- thanks Ben & Rachael for donating this one to the podcast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Ask HTM - Getting a Reluctant Spouse on Board, WTD with an Old 529 Plan, & Landlording from Abroad #628

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - How do I get my reluctant spouse on board with a plan to budget?

2 - What should I do with an old 529 Plan that I was planning on transferring to my kids?

3 - Am I being frugal or cheap by blending my beers myself at a local brewery in order to save?

4 - Should I max out my Roth IRA or my 403b if both are available options?

5 - Is it a good idea to be a landlord while living abroad?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Thyyk Hydra by Mortalis Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

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Friday Flight - Madonna v. Munger, Rich Renters, & Empty Promises of Passive Income #627

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: where to find your missing money, Super Bowl investing indicators, frugal NFL’ers, celebrity crypto accountability, Madonna v. Munger, rich renters, spring housing market rebound, living paycheck to paycheck with 6 figures, avoiding pointless bank fees, poor credit = expensive insurance, & the empty promises of passive income.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

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Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

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The Science of Smarter Spending #626

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

We love nerdy board games! And one of the things that makes them fun, besides getting to play them with friends and family, is the competition for scarce resources. For instance with the Settlers of Catan, it takes a few rounds of play to get the resources you need to build the settlements, cities, and development cards that help you rack up victory points in Catan. It’s a classic that still holds up, and like most games it's all about tradeoffs. Should you focus on building a road or upgrading to a city? You can’t do it all and you can’t get everything you want all at once. And it turns out that our financial lives are kind of like a game of Catan as we’re always making tradeoffs as well- in particular when it comes to our expenses. We’re torn between the decision of spending big money on an item that we know is going to last, versus an inferior item that will get the job done- at least for a little while, before inevitably breaking. Today we talk about the pros and cons of planned obsolescence, the culture of disposability, the buy it for life movement, as well as changing the way we think to ensure that we’re allocating our dollars to maximize satisfaction!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Song of Winter by Hill Farmstead- a big thanks to Michael and Emily for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Frugal Traveling with the NYT Elaine Glusac #625

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Everyone loves to travel! Who doesn’t enjoy exploring a new country, tasting new and interesting foods, diving into the history and culture of a new city? Or if you’re less adventurous, at the very least kicking back and living like a local might sound appealing to you. But the problem is that it’s too expensive to travel!... Or so you think. This is why we’re excited to have Elaine Glusac, who is also known as The Frugal Traveler over at the NYT, joining us on the podcast today. We’re going to discuss the tricks to book the most affordable flights, if it’s frugal or cheap to go with the discount airlines, Elaine’s favorite under the radar destinations, her advice for traveling with kids, and plenty more today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
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Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Society & Solitude #6 by Hill Farmstead- a big thanks to Michael and Emily for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Prime Prescriptions, Gold Digging Dinner Dates, & Stellar Customer Service #624

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: saving $200 a month on car insurance, negotiating down major appliances, Prime prescriptions, financial planner predicaments, gold digging dinner dates, stellar customer service, living in a scamsters paradise, 72 minute daily commutes, & remote jobs on the decline.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maximizing Your Income in 2023 #623

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Focusing only on cutting your expenses in order to invest more money, is just like only focusing on cutting out sweets in order to lose weight. It’s a great start, but there’s more to it than that! Because not only do you need to adjust how many calories you’re consuming everyday, but you’ll also need to address how many calories you’re burning- yes indeed, we’re talking about exercise! It takes a two pronged approach to see the most impactful change on your weight and overall health. And similarly it takes addressing both your expenses and your income in order to see the biggest changes when it comes to your personal finances. So during this episode we focus on why 2023 is the perfect time to boost your income, how to determine if you’re underpaid, the single factor that will lead to higher pay, assessing more than just your annual salary, and many more ways to maximize your income this year!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Painting Dreams Citra by Fidens Brewing- a big thanks to Michael and Emily for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Combining Our Lives/Money, REITs vs Real Estate, & Cutting Childcare Costs #622

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - How should my fiancé and I go about combining our bank accounts, credit cards, and investments?

2 - Should I stop contributing to my Roth IRA until I’m able to fully replenish my six month emergency fund?

3 - Are REITs inferior to investing in actual real estate?

4 - When should I consider opening a specific business checking account?

5 - Daycare and other kid expenses are quite large- what are some ways to cut those bills?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Jasper with Peacharine by Fidens Brewing- a big thanks to Michael and Emily for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

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Friday Flight - Tax Loopholes, Savers' Paradise, & Shopper Revolts #621

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: the cheapest hot dog combo, tax season is upon us and where to file for free, tax loopholes or deductions, the total cost of being a ‘pet parent’, budgeting to maintain your home, smaller down payments on the rise, traffic is costing you real money, the solution to city congestion, shopper revolts, savers’ paradise, & boosting your income with higher wages.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Foolproof Plan to Ditch Debt #620

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budgeting Like a Beast with Jesse Mecham #619

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

We’re going all-in today on budgeting with our special guest- Jesse Mecham! There are a number of folks listening who might recognize his name, but I’m guessing even more folks are familiar with the company he started in 2003 while he was still in college- You Need A Budget, or YNAB as it’s commonly known. Millions of individuals have used YNAB to get on a budget which has allowed them to achieve their life-changing financial goals- whether that’s simply paying off debt or the complicated endeavor of getting on the same page as their partner. Jesse has likely thought more about budgeting over the past 20 years than anyone else out there, so we’re excited to talk with him about all the things that he’s learned over the years. Listen as we discuss why you need a budget in the first place, Jesse’s 4 rules of budgeting, how often you should spend on your budget every month, as well as his approach to credit cards and debt.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - More Potential Loan Forgiveness, Egg Fights, & Workplace Drama #618

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: more potential student loan forgiveness on the horizon, egg fights in the aisles, cutting food waste, the high risk of single stock investing, doubling down on a down market, Disney in real life, & non-competes might be on the road to defeat.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Massive Retirement Account Changes That Impact You! #617

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Would you eat boiled buffalo testicles like they did on the old show Fear Factor? Or walk between two high-rises on a cable? Or allow tarantulas to be dumped on your face while strapped to a table? I’m guessing you’re not interested in doing this for funsies, but you might be singing a different tune iif a million bucks is on the line. And that’s because incentives change everything. When the rules of the game have changed, we need to adjust our behavior accordingly. And at the end of last year the SECURE Act 2.0 was signed into law which effectively changed the rules on a lot of the different retirement accounts that we have access to. There are many provisions in this Act that changed the incentives for how, when, and where we invest for the future. Roth, 529, and self employed retirement accounts were all impacted and so today we discuss many of the changes, and talk about what you should do during today’s episode.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Imperial Strawberry White Ale by Cascade Moon! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Cash with an Online Bank, Revenue Credits on a Target Date Fund, & Paying Taxes on Hobby Income #616

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

1 - I want to switch to an online bank but how do you go about depositing and withdrawing cash?

2 - Should I own my first investment property as an individual or as a business operating as an LLC?

3 - How important is the revenue credit that I receive from my target date fund in my 401k?

4 - Are I bonds still a good place to park money for my one-year-old?

5 - Do I have to pay taxes on income generated by a hobby?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a St. Bernardus Wit! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Holiday Return Hassles, Tax Relief, & Stranded by Southwest #615

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: setting financial goals, new 1099K forms delayed for a year, return windows for holiday gifts, WTD with unused gift cards, backbreaking car payments, minimal EV maintenance costs, popular sources for investing advice, stranded by Southwest, the temporary relief of mortgage rate buydowns, & home seller concessions on the rise.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Essential Habits For Financial Success #614

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Making Money Changes That Stick with Katy Milkman #613

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

We’re talking all about how we can make positive money changes in 2023! And we can think of no better guest to have on the show than Katy Milkman, author of How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be. Katy is a professor at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania where she explores ways that insights from economics and psychology can be harnessed to change consequential behaviors for good, such as exercise and vaccination, but also behaviors like saving more money which is a topic we’re very interested in. She’s advised organizations ranging from the White House to 24 Hr Fitness, her op-eds appear in publications like the New York Times and the Economist, & we’re excited to be discussing making money changes that stick today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Joel & Matt's Year End Review! #612

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

During this special year-end Friday Flight, we’re discussing the major stories from the entire year and their impact on your personal finances! There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off 2023 informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain: the inescapable creep of higher prices, the impact of inflation on groceries, gas, and housing. The Fed’s response to those rising prices by raising interest rates and what that means for debtors and savers. The cratering of the stock market and the depths of the ‘crypto winter’. A red hot job market and how much more workers were able to make if they switched employers. Student loan borrowers and the whiplash they experienced as those loan payments are still on hold. The rise of ‘buy now pay later’ and how a seemingly silver lining has turned out to be a false promise. Plus a few lessons that hopefully we can all takeaway, regardless of where we are on our financial journey- it’s not all bad news!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Happy New Year- best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pursuing Happiness In All the Wrong Ways #611

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM – Prenups & Properties, Skipping a Money Gear for the Match, & Investing in Main Street #610

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

1 - We’ve already purchased investment properties together- should we get a prenup before getting married?

2 - Should I skip Money Gear #1 in order to go ahead and get my 401k company match?

3 - Where can my teenager find the best interest rates on a savings account?

4 - Is Mainvest a good option if I want to invest in local small businesses?

5 - Are Treasuries a good option for short-term investing- for money I’ll need to pay for medical school?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a She’s My Berry Pie by Mutation Brewing- a big thanks to Jack and our friends there at the brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Store Brand Surges, 401k Changes, & Inconvenient Conveniences #609

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out, and Merry Christmas!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Very Merry Minimalist Christmas (Bestie Ep) w/ Meg Nordmann #608

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Hear about Matt’s new favorite holiday cocktail, and then for our Bestie Episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Meg Nordmann who is the author of “Have Yourself a Minimalist Christmas: Slow Down, Save Money, & Enjoy a More Intentional Holiday”. Being smack in the middle of the holidays, we can often find ourselves wondering where all of our time, and money is running off to- but Meg wants to change that with her approach to minimalism. Her book presents strategies to help us to resist the clever marketing and cultural expectations that this season often brings. We talk about Meg’s own history with consumption, the relatively new history of Santa, how she approaches gift giving with her children, convincing extended family to give fewer gifts, and how she creates a minimalist calendar around the holidays.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Empire of Eternal Nothingness by Burial! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Guide for Life’s Biggest Decisions with Abby Davisson #607

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

How do you really know if you’re making the right decision? It’s difficult to know- especially when relationships and careers are on the line. And at a time when we might be experiencing one of the biggest shifts in work-life balance, it’s more important than ever to ensure that we’re making informed and thoughtful decisions. Enter Abby Davisson and the new book that she’s co-authored, Money & Love: An Intelligent Roadmap for Life's Biggest Decisions. And in the book Abby lays out a framework to help empower folks to make the best strategic decisions without having to sacrifice their professional or personal lives. It’s the combination of the rational with the emotional as so many of the biggest decisions we’re faced with require both. Listen as Abby explains the 5 Cs method and we’ll dive into some of the practical, real-life examples that many of us are facing.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Narwhal 2022 by Sierra Nevada! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Cars That Last, SBFraudster, & Tricky Tax Forms #606

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: SBFraudster, mortgage rates mellowing out, shopping around for your mortgage, cars that last, shop till you TikTok, brutal losses for retail traders, actively managed funds (under)performance, preparing for retirement at 25, & tricky tax forms.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Festivus 2022: Celebrating Listener Money Wins #605

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Let’s party! In what felt like a bummer of a financial year, it’s important to spend some time remembering the positives. We’ve experienced a market that hasn't been this bad for nearly 15 years, crypto is fully on the ropes, inflation is still problematic, and student loan forgiveness is in limbo like we talked about last week. But a massive number of How To Money listeners have, despite the economic headwinds of 2022, been able to make significant advances with their own personal finances. We love creating this episode, hearing what y’all have been able to accomplish, and sharing it with your fellow listeners. It’s inspiring and motivating. Y’all were able to do everything from decluttering and cutting back on regular expenses to massive goals like saving up for a down payment and even completely paying of mortgages! Hopefully we can all learn something from each other today and we’re also hoping that this episode might be the spark for some epic 2023 money moves.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Christmas Ale by St Bernardus! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Avoiding Busted Budgets, Getting Declined with an 800+, & Financing Medical Expenses #604

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

1 - As I’m entering retirement, should I consider a financial advisor and how do I go about finding one?

2 - Why was I declined for a new credit card even though my score is over 800?

3 - What are some tips to keep me from busting my budget every single month?

4 - Should I consider financing a medical expense with a provider like CareCredit?

5 - Is an employer match worth it when a variable annuity is the only investment option?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a 2 Turtle Doves by The Bruery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Cable Comeback, Robinhood Retirement, & The $42 Billion Question #603

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we explain some relevant and helpful stories like: the results of Matt’s Aldi vs Costco experiment, expensive real Christmas trees, plummeting savings rates, the $42 billion question, Robinhood recommending retirement, Roth coming out on top, ludicrous litigation, the cable comeback, illegitimate identity theft claims, a credit score that’s good enough, & keeping your energy bill low this winter.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AMA: Better Know the Podcast Hosts! #602

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Check out our first ever AMA: an ‘ask me anything’ where we focused on personal questions as opposed to personal finance related content! Typically we’re either interviewing someone in the personal finance space, answering listeners’ money questions, doing a deep dive on a particular topic, or covering the latest personal finance news- but we thought it’d be fun for y’all to get to know us more on a personal level. These are the kinds of topics you might hear us talking about if we were grabbing a bear at a local brewery! So have a listen as we answer questions having to do with how we met, how our faith impacts our finances, other careers we’ve considered, long-term fitness goals, the biggest decisions we’ve ever made, favorite bands or genres, finding work-life balance, where we want to travel, and more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Double Top by Akademia Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everything You Need to Know About Student Loan Forgiveness with Meagan McGuire #601

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

We’re joined by student loan repayment expert, Meagan McGuire! I don’t think there is anyone else we know who understands the intricacies of student loans more than Meagan. She’s been in the finance industry for more than 13 years and she has the bragging rights of being the first Certified Student Loan Professional in the state of Georgia back when we met several years ago. And the timing couldn’t be better to have an in depth conversation with Meagan as there have been so many changes, new laws, and guidelines in the student loan space- where are things with forgiveness, or what is the current status of the payment pause? We’re lucky to have Meagan answer those questions, plus many more today!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a N’Ice Chouffe by Brasserie d'Achouffe! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Dumpster Diving, Housing Hellscape, & Tech Company Transgressions #600

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: $600 for 600 episodes, free Christmas decor, dumpster diving for Dior, sponsored results in your shopping cart, the rise of BNPL, new employee bonuses, degrees might be for dummies, tech company transgressions, your Benz is over a barrel, housing hellscapes, & smart HELOC use.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forging Financial Flexibility in an Uneasy Economy #599

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Six by Upright Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Best Personal Business Bank Combo, Pay Off Student Loans or Invest, & Big Wireless Getting More Affordable #598

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I completely pay off my student loans or instead use my year-end bonus to invest in the stock market?

2 - Is it possible to get my personal, business, and kids accounts all with the same bank?

3 - What are the real differences between Verizon and Visible and should I switch to save?

4 - How can I protect my money when I pass the $250,000 FDIC limit?

5 - With the US dollar strong, it means my AU dollars I’m earning in Australia are taking a serious hit here in the US- how do I hedge my currency risk?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Wednesday Cat by YO-HO Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - The Housing Halt, Low-Cost Healthcare, & Delinquent Debtors #597

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: student loan pause extension, scammers targeting student loan holders, new guidelines for student loans in bankruptcy, EV reliability in the dumps, avoiding the new car depreciation hit, easily estimating the cost of healthcare, credit card balances on the rise, cards with the worst benefits, fewer folks unbanked, reaching your financial goals with CDs, & tighter lending standards making it difficult to move.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Much Should I Give To Charity? #596

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Farming has to be one of the most difficult careers if our (lack of) success at gardening is any indicator. By no means are we farmers, but from what we do know about growing food, it’s important to periodically let your fields lie fallow. This allows the soil a chance to rest and restore some nutrient balance. It’s counterintuitive, it certainly feels like taking time off from growing crops is going to hurt your bottom line but it’s incredibly necessary for the long-term health of the soil, as well as the success of the farmer. And we think the same is true when it comes to giving our money away. It sure doesn’t sound like a vital ingredient in a wealth-building formula, but we think that it actually is. And when we constantly talk about the different ways that we can work to have more money- whether that’s through spending less or earning more, we think it’s important to hit pause to encourage folks to do the opposite. We truly do believe that by giving away our money- even by starting out with small amounts, that we’re going to end up better off in the end. Listen as we discuss why we believe this to be true, who should be donating their money, how much we should be giving away, and some practical tips to help you to part with more of your money!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Peach Cobbler American-Style Sour by Shades Brewing- thanks Andy for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wild History of Index Funds with Robin Wigglesworth #595

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

If you’ve listened to the show for more than a couple episodes then you know that we’re big fans of index funds. Specifically, low-cost widely diversified index funds are what the vast majority of our portfolios consist of. But how did index funds come to be? And sure, we’re all for them but what does everyone else say? That’s why we’re pumped to take a deep dive into index funds today with Robin Wigglesworth who is editor of Alphaville over at the Financial Times. Robin is a financial journalist and he’s also the author of the book “Trillions: How a Band of Wall Street Renegades Invented the Index Fund and Changed Finance Forever.” Passive investing is something we take for granted- for us, index funds have always been an option but that wasn’t always the case. It was a heretical idea in the past, so we’re excited to get into the history of one of the most important modern-day investing innovations: who was responsible for their creation, why hedge funds still exist if index funds are the path to wealth, potential downsides to passive investing, & much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kveik 1 Golden Sour Ale by Shades Brewing- thanks Andy for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - DeFi Debacle, Forgiveness Freeze, & Degree Displeasure #594

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: higher fees for robo advisors, forgiveness freeze, DeFi debacle, cash stuffing to get ahead, sunsetting credit card benefits, college degree displeasure, streamlining college with direct admissions, states with the best 529 plans, and fine art vs the S&P.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Popular Money Advice That Just Ain’t Right #593

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Searing your steak as a way to ‘lock in the juices’ is something we’ve heard folks recommend for years! Get that grill hot as blazes, toss on your steak, and reap the juicy medium-rare rewards. But even though there might be a kernel of truth here, culinary scientists tell us that it’s not actually the best method. It turns out that the reverse sear is the better way to do it! Similarly, there are phrases and ideas in the personal finance space that get preached as though they’re the gospel truth. And there are a number of reasons why certain bits of advice stick with us- maybe it intuitively makes sense or perhaps it’s packaged well and is just flat-out catchy. We’re all looking for guidance and shortcuts but that doesn’t necessarily mean that these sayings are sage advice. So today we call out some of the biggest culprits on the show and share how you should be thinking about your money.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Uplifted Scottish Ale by Talisman Brewing- thanks Andy for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Bank Bonus Bummers, Investing During A Bear, & A Kitchen Appliance Frugal or Cheap #592

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

1 - We don’t use our dishwasher- so should we save money by not buying one during our kitchen remodel?

2 - Are there any downsides to snagging any of the bank bonus offers?

3 - How can I get our car insurance premiums down with a kid off at college?

4 - What is the best way to invest during a bear market?

5 - My kid is an authorized user on my credit card- should I kick them off once they turn 18?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Udder Chaos Chocolate Milk Stout by Talisman Brewing- thanks Andy for donating this one to the pod! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Getting Paid To Pay Rent, Prime Perks, & A Low Score Costs You More #591

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: CNET calls Matt a liar, Costco hacks to save more, rents on the decline, getting paid to pay rent, all-in pricing with Airbnb, Prime perks or problems, the most expensive way to listen to music, a high enough credit score so you don’t pay more, secondary work benefits, & expensive high quality H20.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Going Full CrossFit on Your Finances #590

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Back to the Future is easily one of the most quintessential 80s movies- come at us if you disagree! And there’s a scene early in the movie when Doc Brown basically explains how it is that he came up with the flux capacitor, which makes time travel possible. But the way that it came about was Doc was standing on his toilet, hanging a clock when he slipped and hit his head on the sink. It was at that precise moment that he came up with the flux capacitor- doing something completely unrelated to his quasi-scientific pursuits, which would forever alter his and Marty McFly’s life. It’s a moment from a classic movie that embodies the concept that you never know when inspiration is going to show up. Well in the same way that a stroke of genius came to Doc when he least expected it, we’ve found that there are so many different money lessons that we’ve both learned from working out and getting more fit! Luckily it didn’t take us hitting our head on the sink but here is a ton of crossover between physical fitness and personal finance. And we think regardless of how active you are (no gym membership required), there are some fantastic lessons to be learned from exercise that will lead to you becoming more financially fit.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Oktoberfest by Talisman Brewing Company- thanks for donating this one to the show Andy! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Killer $5,000 Cars & The Future of EVs with Consumer Reports’ Mike Quincy #589

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Aside from buying a home, buying a car is one of the most expensive one-time purchases that we make. This is a part of the reason why we spend a decent amount of time talking about cars! Over 16% of American household budgets are spent on transportation, so get this one decision right and it’ll be a massive boost to your personal finances. And that’s why we’re excited to have Mike Quincy joining us today. Mike is a car specialist and has been with Consumer Reports for nearly 30 years! He participates in the hands-on car testing, appears regularly on Consumer Reports Talking Cars podcast, and knows virtually all someone could know about new and used cars. We discuss why Consumer Reports buys all their own cars, where the prices of used cars is going, finding the balance between a car that you love vs a practical vehicle that gets you around, some of the best used cars if you’re on a tight budget, and then the challenging future of electric vehicles.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Witches Brew Ale by Talisman Brewing Company- thanks for donating this one to the show Andy! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Checkout Hacks, Calming Compounding, & Balenciaga Babies #588

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: I bonds are still paying big, cutting back on gift giving, Balenciaga babies, kicking Coinstar to the curb, the worst time to tap your 401k, calming compounding, 529 accounts for all the wrong reasons, groceries from 2019, & interest rates hitting car payments.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fast-Tracking Your Kids To Financial Success #587

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Most Americans didn’t have an inkling about Formula 1 racing for most of its existence, until the Netflix show Drive to Survive came along. It’s amazing what a docuseries can do for a sport that was typically relegated to Europe! But an interesting thing about F1 is that the driver with the fastest lap time in trials the day before gets the pole position which is the best starting position at the beginning of the actual race. It turns out that the driver who gets that crucial advantage right out of the gate wins more than 42% of the time. Where you start matters! And similarly we think there is a massive advantage gained in life when kids have the basics of financial literacy as tools and lessons that they can draw on from a young age. Not only will their wealth compound over the years but so will their knowledge and the positive behaviors that they build upon. Listen as we discuss a number of lessons you can implement now, the behavior you’ll model, and the accounts you can open in order to fast-track your kids to financial success.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Prostmeister by Oddstory Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Investing in Real Estate with Only $5, Tapping a 401k to Pay Off Debt, & A Currency Exchange Frugal or Cheap #586

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Are real estate investing apps like Landa legit?

2 - When it comes to budgeting, is it OK to sneak my gardening supplies into our housing maintenance savings category?

3 - Should I cash out an old 401k to pay off some medical debt?

4 - I’m thinking about selling my duplex- should I utilize a 1031 exchange and strike while the iron is hot?

5 - A frugal or cheap abroad: what’s the best way to do a currency exchange?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Traeblod by Mikkeller Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Forgiveness In Limbo, AARP for Babies, & Day Trading Dropouts #585

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: last day to jump on those I bonds, student loan forgiveness in limbo, expensive turkeys, senior discounts for everyone, not-so-discount airlines, luxury bus travel, moving to avoid taxes, young wealthy investors beating the market, day trading dropouts, WFH leading to healthier habits, making time for things that matter, & the fading silver lining of buy now pay later.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dying Destitute: Should You Spend All Your Money Before You Die? #584

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The fact that money is so measurable is both a blessing and a curse. It's a blessing because your budget, your salary, how much you have set aside in investment accounts- basically all dollar amounts in your life are very quantifiable. And because of that it’s not difficult to make some tweaks in order to see some movement with your net worth. Awesome! But at the same time it’s a curse- because these are measurements that are so readily available, we can often overly rely on these numbers to let us know how we’re doing in life. If you’re overly focused on the numbers and if your life satisfaction is purely determined by how much you’ve got in the bank, then we’d argue that you’re incorrectly using your wealth as the main measurement of life satisfaction. So hear us out: the argument we’re putting forth today is that maybe we should all consider dying destitute! We discuss some great reasons to consider spending all your money, how to spend your money in a way that brings you the most joy and happiness, whether you should give money away before or after you die, and some thoughts on leaving money to your kids.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Raspberry Blush by Mikkeller Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Crypto Going Extinct? with Stacy-Marie Ishmael #583

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

There’s a decent chance that during the pandemic and the ensuing months, that you were stuck at home with some extra cash on hand, but with no way to spend that money. So you got into crypto- and unfortunately, there’s a very good chance that your holdings are worth much less and you might be a little concerned. And you’re not alone because a recent Bankrate survey showed that only about 30% of millennials are comfortable investing in crypto which is down from 50% a year ago. There’s just not as much confidence and excitement as there used to be and so we’re excited to be joined by Stacy-Marie Ishmael. For years Stacy used to work at the Financial Times where she started the blog Alphaville, she’s worked as a senior editor at Apple, and now she’s a writer & podcaster at Bloomberg where she dedicates nearly all of her time to cryptocurrencies. Listen as we discuss why crypto exploded the way that it did in recent years and why everyone thought it was going to the moon, why crypto hasn’t acted as an investing hedge, why countries are struggling to implement it as their national currency, and what the future holds in the realm of crypto!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Tie 11 by Monday Night Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Retreating Rewards, New Tax Brackets, & Workplace TRAPs #582

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: our new credit card tool, student loan forgiveness deadlines, pricey Halloween candy, spending big bucks on pet costumes, retail rewards in retreat, new tax brackets along with higher contribution limits to retirement plans, extra fees to return online purchases, workplace TRAPs, the best employers for career advancement, iBanking your iCash on your iPhone, & Aldi conversions on the rise.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus Christ Super-Saver: Ancient Wisdom & Your Money #581

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Buying New or Used Cars in a Crazy Market, Stocks vs Real estate, & Converting or Rolling Over a 401k #580

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I take the leap into real estate investing or is it smarter to invest within a Roth IRA?

2 - Is it a better deal to pay for CPI with my car insurance provider or pay for full coverage myself?

3 - Does it make more sense to roll over an old 401k or should I convert it to a Roth IRA instead?

4 - Should I buy a new or used car in this crazy car market?

5 - We own a rental property- what tips do you have as we make that property our primary residence?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Kersenrood by Wild Heaven, so good! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Horrendous Investing Advice, Haute Dogs, & ADUs FTW #579

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: life as a one car family, ADUs FTW, smaller affordable housing, flippity-flops, mortgage rates at 20-year highs, whether I bonds are still a smart buy, haute dogs and splurging on your pets, the worst life advice of all-time, separation of money and politics, & Netflix is going with commercials.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biking is a Money & Life Hack #578

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buying Existing Businesses to Make Millions with Codie Sanchez #577

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

We’re pumped to talk with entrepreneur extraordinaire Codie Sanchez today. And while Codie is busy buying businesses today, the truth is, it took her a while to get there. Years ago, right out of college, Codie was working 70-hour weeks for a paycheck. And even though she had a great education and an elite job, she felt like her life was out of control. Who cares about prestigious job titles when somebody else controls your day to day?! Now, things are different: Codie is financially independent, she owns 26 small businesses, and she’s the founder and CEO of Contrarian Thinking- where she’s on a mission to free the minds of individuals who are hanging onto traditional careers, as well as the common narrative of what it means to be successful. And oftentimes this can be accomplished via buying existing businesses- which is more feasible than you might think! Listen as we discuss life as a second generation immigrant, why Codie believes we’re in a golden era of acquiring others businesses, ways to go about finding a business to buy, her views on passive income, what it means to utilize your ‘unfair advantage’, when she’d consider selling a business, and much more!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Open Space Haze by Bosque Brewing- a big thanks to Bob in New Mexico for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Idiotic Surveys, Side Hustle Superpowers, & Underutilized HSAs #576

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: surprise bags of food, underutilized HSAs, the silver lining of expensive healthcare, second hand name brands, credit card debt on the rise, crypto settlements and scams, going into debt for the love of the game, dating on the cheap, job listings with pay transparency, & side hustle superpowers.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
Find the best credit card for you with our new credit card tool!
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Responding to Rate-Hike Hysteria #575

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Whether you like it or not, higher interest rates are going to have an impact on your money! We liken it to the first Lord of the Rings book, the Fellowship of the Ring. Frodo was living large in the Shire- it seemed he was going to be the new heir of his uncle’s comfortable Hobbit-hole. He had no worries at all. That is until Gandalf showed up and turned Frodo’s world upside down. Gandalf explained how an evil force was on the move and that they were no longer safe. Well simply put, rising interest rates also have as wide an impact on our economy! Have a listen as we discuss the Overnight Federal Funds Rate and examples of changing rates in recent history. But then we also get into the ramifications of these rate hikes on our ability to earn, spend, save, and invest.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Scotia Scotch Ale by Bosque Brewing- a big thanks to Bob in New Mexico for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Buying a Home FSBO to Save, Getting Ahead on a Small Salary, & the Best Vegan/Eco-Friendly Banks #574

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I put an engagement ring on credit, even if there is going to be a credit card transaction fee?

2 - Is buying a home FSBO a good idea to save money?

3 - How can I get ahead and feel financially comfortable on a small salary?

4 - We’re getting married soon: where should we put our wedding money, what about I bonds, should we combine investment accounts, and is it time for life insurance?

5 - Are eco-friendly and vegan banks worth it?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Pistol Pete’s 1888 Blonde Ale by Bosque Brewing- a big thanks to Bob in New Mexico for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Prime Day Reprise, Subversive Subscriptions, & Moving for Money #573

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: a Prime Day reprise, what it takes to be a super saver, all the best banks are…, underestimating subversive subscription, marry now pay later, cash buckets on the wedding registry, moving for money, online passport renewals, a crazy affordable EV, & saving big on your car insurance.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EOY Deadlines: Reduce Your Taxes & Maximize Your Money #572

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

With all that we’re trying to accomplish in our everyday lives- we find that reminders are a necessity. For instance, your car’s low gas indicator light that flares up when you’re nearing an empty tank. More power to ya if you’re driving an EV (see what I did there…), but for the rest of us still driving internal combustion vehicles, the low fuel light is a life saver. When it comes on, you know you only have so many miles left to find a gas station before you’re going to end up stranded on the side of the road. Well this episode is here to function similarly to that low fuel light, as kind of a warning because you’ve only got 3 months left in 2022. You can use them to your advantage and attain some of the financial goals you set out to achieve in January. Or you can attempt to coast into 2023 running on fumes. There are some hard and fast deadlines approaching and once that window of time closes, there’s no going back. Today we’re talking about student loans, workplace benefits, taxes, retirement savings, and more so listen up- the clock is ticking!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Pickle Down Economics by Bosque Brewing- a big thanks to Bob in New Mexico for donating this one to the show! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jet-Setting for Little to No Money with The Points Guy Brian Kelly #571

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Brian Kelly, The Points Guy himself, is joining us today on the podcast! If you’ve ever attempted some research on airline miles or credit card reward points, then there’s a good chance you’ve read an article or two over at ThePointsGuy.com. Bryan has an entire staff of writers who are all travel experts- from offices in Austin, to NY, all the way over to London. Which of course frees Bryan up to be able to spend even more of his time participating in his favorite activity- traveling. Listen as Brian shares why he’s willing to pay annual fees on 25 credit cards, what you should do if you have existing airline points, what he thinks about cashback credit cards, how to maximize the number of points you can earn, his favorite perks and benefits of travel cards, and finally his thoughts on traveling with a new baby!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Poop Music, Speculation Nation, & Coffee-Drinking Spendthrifts #570

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: interest rates on the rise, dumb ol gift cards, repair or replace a broken appliance, the easiest way to save time and money in the kitchen, phantom funds in your Venmo and Cash app, sweepstake savings accounts, coffee-drinking spendthrifts, speculation nation, an index fund to avoid, & last but also least- poop music.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Achieving Balance In a World of Work Domination #569

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Up until the 1500s, everybody thought that the earth was the center of the universe- the sun, moon, and planets all orbited around us. But over the course of a century as more folks accepted the belief that we are a part of a heliocentric solar system, this updated view significantly changed everyone’s perception of planet Earth. No longer were we at the center of it all! Our planet Earth is still important of course, but everyone began to see that we were a part of a larger system. We were put in our proper place. And similarly we feel that work and career tends to be at the center of the American universe, negatively impacting our lives via workaholism, lack of other interests, and higher levels of stress. Not that work can’t be fulfilling! We’ve always held a high view of work- it provides a sense of meaning and structure, not to mention a necessary source of income. But when our lives revolve around work, when it’s the center, we think it throws everything out of balance. Listen as we discuss the many reasons why work dominates our lives, as well as how you can find more work-life balance!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a S'mores by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Recasting to Lower Your Mortgage Payment, A Solar Panel Conundrum, & Forfeiting I Bond Interest #568

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it best to recast a mortgage or should I just pay a lump-sum and be done with the mortgage a bit sooner?

2 - Frugal or cheap?! Repurchasing a board game online after it dropped in price, and having to drive in order to return the original.

3 - What interest am I forfeiting if I pull money out of my I bonds early?

4 - When buying solar, am I just exchanging a loan payment for my monthly electricity bill?

5 - I’d like to be a long-distance landlord- is that a wise move and what else should I keep in mind?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a German Chocolate Cake by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Taxing Loan Forgiveness, Everyday Money Fights, & Virtuous Investing #567

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: HTM sock giveaway, sticky inflation, stressful everyday money fights, college major regrets, taxing student loan forgiveness, IRS refunding an extra billion dollars to filers, WTD about market crash predictions, millennials selling out, 401k lifetime income illustrations, ESG funds looking worse than ever, & going into debt for an iPhone.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Strategic Debt Use To Catapult Your Finances #566

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Milk & Cookies by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building Wealth on a Tiny Income with Sarah the Budget Girl #565

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

In the same way that being able to read is a critical component of learning and furthering your education, budgeting is essential to managing your money well and building wealth. It’s foundational! And that’s why we’re pumped to have Sarah Wilson joining us on the podcast today. Today we discuss why the Budget Girl started publishing her own budget for the entire internet to see, how granular you should be getting with your budget, as well as some of the lowest hanging fruit everyone should consider. And we also hear how Sarah paid off all of her student loans in just 3 years on a meager income, her foray into house hacking, charging her boyfriend rent, the future of her very successful site and YouTube channel, plus a bunch of other topics as well!

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Brownie by Wicked Weed! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - 3% Mortgages, Secondhand Steals, & Leg Room Lunacy #564

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: getting a 3% mortgage via a loan assumption, some new competition for home internet providers, leg room lunacy, free lodging because of flight delays, donate now pay later, influencers in the wild, active insurance trackers to save, & secondhand steals from buying used.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Key Characteristics of Great Investors #563

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

There’s been a massive proliferation of micro-transportation devices in recent years. Everything from Segways and electric skateboards to Onewheels and e-scooters. But as cool as some of those futuristic devices are, none of them hold a candle to the ultimate classic- the bicycle. Advances in technology have made bikes lighter, safer, and easier to repair, but the basic bicycle remains unchanged and is still the most affordable and dependable personal transportation device. And we’ve seen similar changes when it comes to what it means to be an investor. There really are a ton of crappy investments out there and the spread of not-so-awesome investment advice has been on the rise as well. It’s a constantly changing space and there are a wider range of options available as well as ‘gurus’ telling us how we should be investing. These fancy options can throw us off our game and so we wanted to make sure that you’re able to cultivate and embody the characteristics of a great investor so that you’ll be able to make wise decisions with your investments.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Oktoberfest by Dry County Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Combining Finances as a Newlywed Couple, Seek and Destroy Investment Fees, & Making the Most of Inherited Money #562

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

1 - As a newlywed couple, should we combine our finances?

2 - How do I go about finding and then eliminating the fees associated with my 403b account?

3 - I received an inherited IRA- how do I make the most of this money if I’d like to eventually buy a house?

4 - Should I finish out a basement, build an ADU, or purchase a single/multifamily home if I’m wanting to diversify into real estate?

5 - What are your top 10 episodes that you’d recommend to noobs of personal finance?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Saison De Banc Vert by Green Bench Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Quiet Quitting, Cheap Ribeyes, & Another Housing Recession? #561

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: tomorrow is National Cinema Day, sky high EV prices, heating your home this winter is gonna be pricey, e-bike incentives, at the brink of a possible housing recession, HGTV-ification of America, big brother employers doling out productivity scores, cheap ribeyes and brisket, buying meat in bulk straight from the farm, how eco-friendly is raising livestock, & Sam’s Club raising their membership fees.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Subtle Marketing Maneuvers That Stymie Your Money Momentum #560

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

How something is communicated to us can have a major impact on the reception of that idea. For instance, Joel’s wife has been known to offer great advice to him over the years- but he often only comes around when a friend makes a similar remark! He suddenly sees the light because even though the advice is the same, the context is different. It’s only then that he takes action. And similar patterns emerge when it comes to our susceptibility to advertising and marketing. Our subconscious often coalesces to marketing tactics that we tend to think we’re impervious to. We’re not quite as rational as we think we are, and those marketing tricks often nudge us towards buying things we don’t need and spending money we hadn’t planned on parting with. So listen as we identify some of these marketing maneuvers and the steps you can take to avoid becoming a mindless consumer.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Bibo by Creature Comforts! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tackling Personal Finance with NFL Linebacker Brandon Copeland #559

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Our guest today, Brandon Copeland is an NFL player, but he’s also so much more than that. He most recently played for our local team, the Atlanta Falcons, last season but he’s won the Alan Page award for community service and we find his off-the-field activities even more fascinating. He runs a non-profit football camp called Beyond the Basics that not only teaches kids the technical skills of being a great football player, but also helps them to reach their full potential off of the field as well. He has a financial literacy course called Life 101 that he teaches at the University of Pennsylvania. He has a couple of real estate companies that he runs with his wife as well- it’s safe to say that Brandon is truly an entrepreneur! We talk about personal finances in the NFL, resisting the cultural pull to consume, setting our kids up for success, and much more in today’s episode.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Fortunatus by Three Taverns! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Forgiveness Reality, Expensive Offspring, & DIY Coffins #558

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead with your money. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: Student loan forgiveness has arrived, forgiveness tax implications, student loan payment caps, streaming viewership and prices continue to rise, unlimited movies are back, expensive offspring, wasting your library money, affordable hearing aids on the way, DIY coffins to save big, and props to one of our favorite outdoor recreational activities.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beating Down the Biggest Money Obstacles You Face #557

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Gen Z listeners might not get this reference, but American Gladiators in the early 90s was the original American Ninja Warrior. The show was a series of events where a couple of really fit young folks would compete through a number of obstacles to win a cash prize. The only thing standing in their way? A roster of some incredibly ripped athletes who just wanted to punish you. The gladiators were literally slamming you down or jousting you off a raised pedestal- they were the biggest obstacles the competitors faced. And similarly, there are money obstacles that pop up out of nowhere that knock the wind out of our finances. Some obstacles are more external like the influence of our friends or unplanned expenses, but others are internal like a short-sightedness we might have towards our money or a lack of knowledge. So we’re going to spend this episode running through some of the different obstacles that are attempting to derail you on your path to financial freedom- and specifically, what to do about them.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Overly Relying on Micro Jobs, Going Green and Frugal at the Same Time, & Selling Now vs Renovating in the Future #556

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Should I consider micro jobs to make some supplemental part time income?

2 - How do I go about making frugal and green choices at the same time?

3 - Without any passive streams of income, where should I pull money for early retirement?

4 - Our house is going to need some major work in the next 5 years- should we sell now or renovate?

5 - How much would I pay in taxes in order to invest into a Roth IRA?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Rho by Equilibrium Brewery! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Dirt Cheap Groceries, Worthless Warranties, & Paused Payments? #555

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead during these trying times. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: wearing used workout clothes, inflation resistant restaurants, dirt cheap groceries, trading down to save more, potentially paused payments, student loans impacting your golden years, happy birthday Social Security, worthless warranties, college student safeguards, TDF allowing you to DIY it within your 401k, actively managed funds kinda coming out ahead, specific EVs that get the new tax credit, & a sweet signup bonus on one of our favorite credit cards.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Negotiation as a Winning Everyday Tactic #554

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

A couple years ago Matt got really into tracking his time for an entire year. Virtually every minute, there was an app running in the background as he was cataloging how he was spending his hours- all in an attempt to better utilize his time. And while 99% of folks will think that’s completely insane, they’ll likely admit that there might be some serious benefits to managing their time more efficiently. Similarly, we’re here to argue that negotiating is something that can benefit you regardless of what stage of life you’re in- whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or a CEO. Unfortunately there are a few misconceptions about negotiating that we’re going to tackle. But then we’ll go through a number of different factors to keep in mind that are going to make you a more effective negotiator in your day-to-day life. Factors like market research, your tone and non-verbals, the role of emotion during an interaction, and plenty more that’ll help you to earn more and spend less.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Cherry Grisette by Jester King! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ratcheting Up Your Risk Tolerance with Allison Schrager #553

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

We’re getting a little nerdy on the show today with Allison Schrager who is our favorite author on the subject of risk. She’s an economist, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, a columnist at Bloomberg Opinion, and co-founder of LifeCycle Finance Partners which is a risk advisory firm. Allison has had a varied career from working in finance, policy, and media with her byline often appearing in many different publications like the Economist and Wired. She’s also written a book, “An Economist Walks into a Brothel: And Other Unexpected Places to Understand Risk” that we’re diving into as well. And we’re going to discuss what risk looks like in our world today- how we should be interpreting it as individuals, as investors, and whether we should be exposing ourselves to more risk in a world that seems obsessed with the pursuit of safetyism.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Busy as Daggie by Tripping Animals! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Holiday Flight Advice, Inflation Reduction Reactions, & Aldi at the Altar #552

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead during these trying times. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: DIY toilet talk, 2021 sold more electric bikes than electric vehicles, EV prices are getting out of hand, tax credits to help you go electric, more funding for the IRS, $1,200 to greenify your home, Petsmart saddling employees with debt, holiday flight advice, refunds for delayed flights, everlasting Southwest travel credits, Aldi at the altar, & realizing real retirement risks.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is It a Terrible Time to Buy a Home? #551

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

They say that timing is everything. For example, Nascar and F1 drivers need perfect timing in order to make a move and pass their competition. An ill-timed attempt can result in falling further behind, or even worse, in a crash that takes you out of the race completely. Well, the housing market has been shaken up in a big way as prices have risen substantially and now higher rates are making things even more unaffordable. That being said, the market is beginning to feel like it’s stalling out and maybe even correcting- though we would be pretty shocked if the current market oddities ended up in something resembling the 2008 crash. But there’s still a lot of uncertainty when it comes to the housing market. If you were making offers last year and missing out consistently, is now the time for you to finally be able to buy? During this episode we talk about timing the housing market, what the current market conditions look like, how you should be thinking about the rent vs buy debate, as well as some practical steps that you should take if you determine that you are ready to buy a home.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed an Odelette by Fair Isle Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Buying a Used Car from a Rental Fleet, Timing a 401k Conversion, & a Duplex Purchase Snag #550

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

1 - I’m thinking about buying a used car from a rental fleet- what considerations should I keep in mind?

2 - What steps should we take, or not take, as we’re getting more serious with our entrepreneurial endeavors?

3 - Is now a good time to roll my 401k over into a Roth IRA?

4 - What factors should I consider as I’m looking for the best rate on my high yield savings account?

5 - My lender says that I have to move into the duplex that I’m trying to purchase as an investment property- what should I do?

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

During this episode we enjoyed a Grapefruit Hefeweizen by Schofferhofer! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How To Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Child Labor, Equifax’s Idiocy & Utility Bill Hacks #549

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead during these trying times. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: HTM sock giveaway winners, more Google Map biking features, credit card companies are fighting for your business, cheap millennials are worse tippers, jumping ship to earn 10% more, why we’re proponents of child labor, US Bank exploiting their customers, pernicious hotel fees, Equifax continues to blow it, & a quick utility bill hack.

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here.
Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
Find a thriving community of fellow money nerds by joining the HTM Facebook group!
Maximize your rewards by getting the best credit card for how you spend.
Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.
Don’t be cheap and forego getting a life insurance policy. Compare rates with Policygenius.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is College For Dummies? #548

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Now we know that baseball is America’s pastime, but is there any other sport that is more ingrained in our culture than football? And is there anything more wholesome than parents encouraging their kids to play football in order to learn teamwork, develop their athletic prowess, and develop friendships while having a great time? That may have been true 30 years ago, but the rise of CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) has given parents pause as we’re now seeing something close to 35% fewer kids playing the sport now than played 10-15 years ago. The value proposition has changed as we’ve learned what the longer-term impacts of all of those hits to the head means for athletes. Well we believe the same thing is true when it comes to higher education. Due to the higher costs of college, the massive student loan burden, and other false assumptions about going to college, we want all high school grads to think long and hard about whether college is the right choice for them. Listen as we discuss the factors to consider to maximize your ROI of attending college, some great alternatives to going straight from senior year to a university, and then some questions to ask yourself to help you decide.

During this episode we enjoyed a Foeder Bier by Southern Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Real Estate Investing in an Erratic Market with Brandon Turner #547

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

This is the episode you need to listen to if you’ve been making excuses for not getting into real estate investing. Our interview today is with Brandon Turner who quite literally wrote the book on investing in real estate. He has published many books on the topic including “The Book on Rental Property Investing: How to Create Wealth With Intelligent Buy and Hold Real Estate Investing”. He was also a former host of the Bigger Pockets podcast with over 100 million downloads and of course that’s a show that’s all about real estate. And today our conversation covers Brandon’s story- how he first got into real estate, how as an entrepreneur he keeps work from overtaking his life, how you can choose an investing strategy, how you should approach cash flow vs appreciation, what to do about current housing market conditions, if being a landlord is ethical, and more!

During this episode we enjoyed a Do or Die: Spiced Chocolate Stout by Orpheus Brewing! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Ginormous Jackpots, Expensive Algorithms, & Geriatric Roommates #546

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead during these trying times. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: scoring some HTM socks!, finally time for a recession, ginormous jackpots, using dumb personal loans to build wealth, fintech promising too good to be true savings rates, Overdraft Protection Act, the case of the $5,000 Springsteen tickets, expensive algorithms, fake reviews, student loan pause likely to be extended, geriatric roomates to save big, going with store brands, and conspicuous consumption if you’re into foot stuff.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Middle Class is Shrinking: What That Means for You! #545

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:00:00 +0000

We, as human beings, avoid pain. Nobody likes to break their collarbone while snowboarding, cut their finger while chopping up some veggies, or even stub their toe on the leg of the high chair. And of course that immediate pain communicates to us that something is wrong- it keeps us from further hurting ourselves. But then oftentimes there is some inflammation or swelling that occurs after the fact. And that’s not a sign that you’re hurting yourself, but it can actually be the first steps that your body is taking in order to heal your injury. So in a way that ongoing pain from any swelling could be seen as a good thing! Though uncomfortable, it can be a sign of forward-looking health. And similarly, we’re attempting to take a more positive approach to what seems like the disconcerting problem of a shrinking middle class. We actually think there is more good than bad happening with a middle class that seems to be hollowing out. Listen to find out why this seems like a bad trend at first glance, who has been climbing the financial ranks, who is actually considered ‘rich’, what this means for you, and then finally what you can do to get ahead with your finances.

During this episode we enjoyed a Stiegl Radler Zitrone (fancy-speak for lemon)! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask HTM - Dropping Money on Fancy Coffee, Insurance at the Expense of Investing, & the Best Approach to NFTs #544

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 08:00:00 +0000

1 - Is it ok to splurge on a cup of joe at my local coffee shop when my financial situation has gotten more burdensome?

2 - What are your thoughts on how we should be taxed here in the US?

3 - How much should I investing into NFTs?

4 - Does it make sense for me to keep paying on a home warranty plan that I inherited?

5 - Am I spending too much money on life insurance?

During this episode we enjoyed a Milkstachio by Hop Butcher for the World! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Flight - Everyday Payday, Coupon Culling, & the Demise of Thrifting #543

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Time for our Friday Flight! These episodes are a sampling of the week’s financial news and the impact on your personal finances. There are a lot of headlines out there, but we distill it down to specific takeaways that will allow you to kick off the weekend informed and help you to get ahead during these trying times. In this episode we cover some relevant and helpful stories like: European travel discounts, making yourself take some time off, rising costs of pet sitting, WTD with that drawer of gift cards, decelerating rents, the demise of thrifting, $18 for heated seats, everyday payday, coupon culling, & the easiest way to create a will.

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Streaming Sucks! Eliminating Expenses as Costs Creep Up #542

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 08:00:00 +0000

We talk a lot about finding free stuff on the side of the road, in HTM parlance, curb alerts! It’s a great way to reduce waste and save money if you’re able to find something that you’re needing, and it just so happens to be sitting there on the curb for you. But if you find yourself driving around town for a few hours every night after work in hopes that folks have abandoned a neat tchotchke that you may or may not actually need, then you might be dedicating too much time to the pursuit of free stuff. Similarly, streaming subscriptions can be a wonderful thing- they’ve been able to deliver some amazing content to hundreds of millions of people. But if you have too many streaming companies set to autopay, not only is it consistently draining money from your bank account but it’s also stealing your most limited resource- your time. Listen as we tackle why it is we stream in the first place, how to cut the cost of streaming, how to stream for free, and contemplate what else you could be spending your time doing as we challenge ourselves to spend less time on the couch to begin with!

During this episode we enjoyed a Benevolence by Flying Machine! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Living Life with the End in Mind with Jordan Grumet #541

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 08:00:00 +0000

For a certain subset of HTM listeners, it might be easy to not see the forest for the trees. You might naturally be drawn to the finer details of personal finance like expense ratios and Excel formulas in an attempt to ensure that you’re living the most efficient and optimized life that you possibly can. But, that’s when the subtle shift can take place. That’s when the means to the end begins to overshadow the actual end, which for many is to simply live a good and happy life. Instead, we should live our lives with the end in mind and that’s why we’re talking with Dr. Jordan Grumet, also known as Doc G. Jordan was an internal medicine physician when he discovered the personal finance community. Since then he started an award winning podcast and is now the author of Taking Stock: A Hospice Doctor's Advice on Financial Independence, Building Wealth, and Living a Regret-Free Life, which will be published in a couple of weeks. Listen as we discuss meaningful work, resisting the traditional American work culture, what it takes to set priorities in life, and much more!

During this episode we enjoyed an Indolence, which is an American sour, by Pretentious Barrel House! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to Money

Friday Flight - Space Stocks, Delaying Debt, & Home Insurance Hardships #1149

Avoiding the 'Middle Class Trap' w/ Scott Trench #1148

Ask HTM – Liquid Cash (How Much is Too Much), AI WW3 Portfolios, & Shopping Local (for a Mortgage) #1147

Friday Flight - Rent Reductions, Charity Parity, & Home Equity Sharing #1146

The Case for a ‘Good Enough’ Financial Plan w/ Jesse Cramer #1145

Ask HTM – Sinking Fund or Pet Insurance, Balance Transfer Card Bonus, & Backfilling an HSA #1144

Friday Flight - Insurgent I-Bonds, Trendy Tiny Homes, & Cutting The Big 3 #1143

The $1M Scholarship Strategy w/ Nia Baiyeroju #1142

Ask HTM – Looking to the Stars to Save, High Price to Pay for Financial Advice, & Setting up a Roth for a Minor #1141

Friday Flight - Mistaken Starting Salaries, Crypto Mortgages, & Self-Inflicted Inflation #1140

Achieving Financial Independence as a Late Starter w/ Bill Yount #1139

Ask HTM - Budgeting for Credit Card Rewards, HELOC for Home Improvements, & Coast FI with Bonds #1138

Friday Flight – Recycled Rags, Slow Shipping, & Sayonara Spirit (or not...) #1137

Building Wealth When Markets Get Messy w/ Ben Carlson #1136

Ask HTM: Conquering Debt-Fuled Lifestyle Inflation, Investing a Used Car Payment, & Making the Most of a VA Loan #1135

Friday Flight - College Cost Cutting, Predictive Credit Scores, & Work Perk Pruning #1134

Flights Are Getting Pricier! (*here’s how to pay less*) w/ Kyle Potter #1133

Ask HTM - Running the Financial Gamut From Squirreling Away an Emergency Fund to Real Estate Investing #1132

Friday Flight - Allbirds AI Audacity, 529 Flexibility, & Horrific HELOCs #1131

Real Estate's Ticking Time Bomb w/ Bigger Pockets' Dave Meyer #1130

Ask HTM - Set for Life w/ Trump Accounts, Cash vs a Car Loan, & Vetting a Financial Advisor #1129

Friday Flight - Frustrating Fees, Degree Doubts, & Upper-Middle Class Ascendancy #1128

Can Millennials Count on Social Security? w/ Mike Piper #1127

Ask HTM - Free Fidelity Funds, Credit Card Maxxing, & Debating a PTO Cash-Out #1126

Ask HTM - Inflating the 25x Rule, Online Car Refinancing, & Affordable ADUs (Bestie Ep) #1125

The Blueprint to Financial Wholeness w/ Tiffany Aliche #1124

Ask HTM - 4 Hours to Dispute $3.16, All-In on the S&P 500, and Hitting Coast FIRE #1123

Friday Flight - Stellar Staycations, Devilish Destination Fees, & Pay Cut Gut Punch #1122

Capitalism for ALL: Making the System Work for Everyone w/ John Hope Bryant #1121

Ask HTM - Marriage Goals Over Investing, SS Survivor Benefits at Age 30, & Best Cars for New Mamas #1120

Friday Flight - Long Airport Lines, Rent In Installments, & Plasma Payday! #1119

Why Money Decisions Feel Rigged w/ John Campbell #1118

Ask HTM - Mag-7-Nondiversification-Risk, Cutting Up 13 Credit Cards, & Best Tax Refund Opportunities #1117

BONUS: Stop Doing So Much w/ Justin Peters of FI Minded Podcast

Friday Flight - Warflation, Attractive ARMs, & Drone Home Assessments #1116

Knowing Your Rights & Crushing Medical Bills w/ Jared Walker #1115

Ask HTM – Deploying Cash to Recast or Invest, Free $ in Trump Accounts, & David Ramsey Falling Short #1114

Friday Flight - AI Money Impacts, Side Hustle Salad Days, & Sullen Savers #1113

Are Teachers Doomed to a Broke Retirement? w/ Shaun Morgan #1112

Ask HTM - Debating a Raise vs WFH Flexibility, Investing in Nvidia, & Digital Hygiene Frugal or Cheap #1111

Friday Flight - Jump at the Pump, Lessening Leverage, & Tapping Too Soon #1110

Bouncing Back from Bankruptcy & Business Failure w/ Phil Sanders #1109

Ask HTM - Housing Rule of Thumb, Axing a Boat Payments, & Making Bank on the World Cup #1108

Friday Flight - Tariff Turmoil, Winning So Much, & Border-Hopping for Bargains #1107

Die with Zero w/ Bill Perkins #1106

Ask HTM - High Net Worth but still Paycheck to Paycheck, Better Investing for Freelancers, & the Necessity of Amazon Prime #1105

Friday Flight - 401k Mullets, Crappy Coffee, & Bitcoin Bashing #1104

Why Being “Good With Money” Still Feels So Hard w/ Shannah Game #1103

Ask HTM - Student Loans in Administrative Forbearance, Intentionally Entering into Collections, and Financial Infidelity #1102

Friday Flight - Stealthy Skimpflation, Janky Job Markets, & Day-Trading Doris #1101

Talk About Money Without Fighting w/ Dr. Sonya Lutter #1100

Ask HTM – ADU vs iBonds, Timing a Silver Sale, and HELOC Unlocking Landlord Status #1099

Friday Flight - ‘The Lipstick Effect’, Cheap Chinese EVs, & DIY Solar #1098

The Case for Frugal Hedonism w/ Annie Raser-Rowland #1097

Ask HTM – Money Gears Mixup, Stewarding an Inheritance, & Turning to Gold! #1096

Friday Flight - Richer Refunds, Best Costco Buys, & $3 Dinners (don’t have to be this sad!) #1095

Student Loan Chaos Explained w/ Stanley Tate #1094

Ask HTM – Assets to Boost My Credit Score, Lifestyle Geographic Arbitrage, and Car Loans to get Wealthier #1093

Friday Flight - Points for Paying your Mortgage, Credit Card Consultants, & AI UBI (to each according to his need!) #1092

The Art of Spending w/ Morgan Housel #1091

Ask HTM - Combatting Healthcare Premium Hikes, Purchasing Long Term Disability, and WTD with Nine-Figure Wealth #1090

Friday Flight - Credit Card Caps, Free Rent, & Pokemon Investing #1089

Own Your Time: Build a Life You Control w/ Andy Hill #1088

Ask HTM - Gym Edition Frugal or Cheap, Blaming the Baby for Lifestyle Upgrades, and Dipping into Savings for a Camper #1087

Friday Flight - Return Rabbits, Double Majoring, and Nihilistic Renters #1086

Spending Life Wisely: Vicki Robin on Money, Meaning, and Time #1085

Your Smart Money Guide for 2026 #1084

The High Cost of Crappy Credit (Bestie Ep) #1083

Time > Money w/ Ben Miller (Bestie Ep) #1082

Ask HTM - Work Provided Life Insurance, Compounding Returns with a 401k True-Up, & Selling a Home to an iBuyer (Bestie Ep) #1081

Holiday Special: 2025 Lessons, Risky Bets, and an Alaska Surprise (BONUS EP)

Who Wants to *Literally* Be a Millionaire? (Bestie Ep) #1080

Families Fly Free w/ Lyn Mettler (Bestie Ep) #1079

Ask HTM - Caring for Parents, Dreaming of Partial Retirement, and Paying Extra on the Mortgage #1078

Friday Flight - Deceptive Dollar Stores, Frustrated Flippers, & Betting Your Credit Card Balance #1077

Becoming a Rational Investor w/ Ben Felix #1076

Ask HTM – Double Dipping Expense Ratios, Wealth Building with High Deductibles, and when 50 Year Mortgages Make Sense #1075

Friday Flight - Political $ Planning, Free Electricity, & Cash is Cringe (plus Instacart Iniquity, Advent Calendars, more...) #1074

Jade Warshaw on Escaping the Debt Trap and Rewriting Your Story #1073

Flights Are Getting Pricier! (here’s how to pay less) w/ Kyle Potter #1133

Who Wants to Literally Be a Millionaire? (Bestie Ep) #1080