The Clark Howard Podcast

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  09.15.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss 15.09.2026 32min

  How To Build Wealth Without a Tech Job & Hidden Dangers of Coast FI Forget the myth that you have to work on Wall Street or in Silicon Valley to build massive wealth. Wes reveals the power of the "Everywhere Millionaires" – the 3 million Americans who have accumulated a collective $65 trillion by building unglamorous, low-tech, and non-tech businesses. Discover why tactile, essential industries are producing some of the richest entrepreneurs in the country (including a former hot dog stand owner who sold his business for $1 billion). Then, Wes issues a crucial warning for young investors drawn to the Coast FI movement. While saving aggressively early in life is fantastic, relying solely on compound interest while taking your foot off the savings gas pedal in your 20s or 30s carries massive hidden risks. Wes explains why life’s unexpected variables mean you shouldn't step back from your financial goals too soon. Mentioned on the show: Are You Well Invested? Here’s a 6-Point Check          Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute How To Invest a Lump Sum or Cash You've Left Uninvested Pension vs Lump Sum Calculator - Clark Howard The Biggest Investing Lesson From Trump Accounts - Clark Howard All this and more on the September 15, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/askDiscover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  09.14.26 Home Security Cams / StubHub’s Ticket To A Reckoning 14.09.2026 31min

  Think you need an expensive, full-blown security system to protect your home? Think again. Clark shares how even a single inexpensive security camera can serve as a massive deterrent against burglars. While surveillance technology certainly has its privacy drawbacks, Clark breaks down the major safety benefits for homeowners. Plus, long considered a reliable platform bringing legitimacy to ticket resale, StubHub is now facing intense backlash from customers stranded at major events like the World Cup. Clark discusses findings from a Wall Street Journal report detailing how the company reportedly gutted customer service, altered contact methods, and hid their legal address to dodge arbitration requests and frustrate customers seeking refunds. Hear Clark's take on this unbelievable situation and what it means for anyone buying resale tickets today. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 14, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Home Security Cams: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 StubHub TROUBLE: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: These Studies Show Even One Home Security Camera Is a Deal-Breaker for Burglars Why You Should Consider Security Cameras (Without the Monthly Subscription) Why You Should Keep Old Credit Card Accounts Open - Clark Howard Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute Best Small Business Credit Cards - Clark Howard  The StubHub Customers Who Battled for Tickets—and Battle Harder for a Refund Best Financial Advisors in 2026 - Clark Howard⁠  / Facet: How It Works How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion How To Save on Travel With Google Flights - Clark Howard  Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  09.11.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Data Centers 11.09.2026 35min

  Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.   Also,  data centers being built around the country have been polarizing, but one thing is for certain: your electricity bills are going up. Clark describes how the deals are done - often out of public view, who should rightfully pay the freight, and issues a critical call to action. All this and more on the September 11, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Data Centers- A Call To Action: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why Clark Howard Changed His Mind About Prenups Car Rental Insurance: Everything You Need To Know - Clark Howard Is Now the Time To Get a CD or a CD Ladder? - Clark Howard Where Should You Keep Your Cash Reserve?  /  TreasuryDirect.gov When Should You File a Claim on Your Homeowners Insurance? Cell Phone Protection: These Credit Cards Will Replace Your Stolen or Damaged Phone NYTimes: Data Centers to Add Billions in Power Costs in 13 States  [The Washington Post] How utility and tech firms ‘educate’ regulators with big donations, secret retreats  What Is Service Line Insurance and Do I Need It? - Clark Howard National September 11 Memorial & Museum 9/11 Day · September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  09.10.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss 10.09.2026 35min

  Rapid Fire Q&A: The "Happiest Retiree" Pet Factor, RMD Alternatives, Fidelity’s New Annuity + More Questions Answered Welcome to our first monthly "Rapid Fire Thursday" episode of Ask an Advisor! Today, Wes Moss is opening up the listener mailbag to answer your direct financial questions. We’re covering a wide range of topics: from how pets fit into the "Happiest Retirees" research, to whether UTMA accounts or Trump Accounts beat out a classic 529 plan for college and savings goals. Plus, we address pension life insurance strategies, handling portfolio planning with reduced life expectancy, and how to navigate the infamous "Tax Torpedo" in retirement. Mentioned on the show: Required Minimum Distributions: How To Calculate, Rules The Biggest Investing Lesson From Trump Accounts - Clark Howard Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Roth IRA vs Traditional (Pre-Tax) IRA Calculator - Clark Howard All this and more on the September 10, 2026, Ask an Advisor “Rapid Fire” episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  09.09.26 Price Versus Quality / Healthcare, Retirement & Job Lock 09.09.2026 34min

  Would you pay a lower price for lower quality? Clark readily admits he would - in some cases. Is buying the absolute cheapest option actually saving you money, or is it a hidden trap? Clark breaks down the everyday dilemma between price and long-term quality, sharing where he happily goes rock-bottom cheap (like flat-screen TVs) versus where paying a bit more pays off for safety, durability, and real value. Also, are you staying in your job to keep your benefits?  Nearly 1 in 4 Americans are stuck in jobs they want to leave simply because they can't afford to lose their health coverage. Clark exposes the bizarre history behind "job lock" and explains why tying healthcare and complex retirement plans to employment is a system that desperately needs fixing. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 9, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Price Vs Quality: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Job Lock: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: When Saving Money Costs More in the Long Run Is It Worth Buying High-End Appliances? - Clark Howard How To Open a Roth IRA - Clark Howard Roth IRA Growth Calculator - 2026 - Clark Howard My 7 Rules for Using Credit Cards - Clark Howard US Mobile Review: 6 Things To Know Before You Sign Up The Best International Phone Plans - Clark Howard Using Cellular Data Internationally: Buying a Local SIM Card  Staying in a job for the health insurance? About 1 in 4 Americans do, a survey says The Millionaire Next Door Is LifeLock Worth It? - Clark Howard How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  09.08.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss 08.09.2026 35min

  Why the "K-Shaped" Economy is WRONG & What Rising Interest Rates Mean for You Is the "K-shaped" economy an accurate description of what Americans are experiencing today? Wes breaks down why the economy looks less like a "K" and more like an "E" — and what that means for your money, spending, and job prospects. Wes also tackles the burning question on every investor and homeowner's mind: What happens if interest rates keep rising? From the 10-Year Treasury yield to the inverse relationship between interest rates and bond prices, learn how potential rate hikes could impact your mortgage, car loans, and fixed-income portfolio. Mentioned on the show: Axios: The closing of the "K" Remote work -- not AI -- has sidelined recent college graduates 5 Keys To Be a Successful Investor All this and more on the September 8, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  09.04.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Clark & Wes Talk Retirement 04.09.2026 41min

  Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.   Also, Clark discusses retirement with Wes Moss including how we can plan for not only a solid financial future, but a happy one as well. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Clark & Wes On Retirement: Segments3 & 4 Mentioned on the show: Why Property Taxes Are Soaring (and How To Fight Back) Why You Need To Lock Your Brokerage Account Today Why Your HOA Fees Are Skyrocketing - Clark Howard The Biggest Investing Lesson From Trump Accounts - Clark Howard T-Mobile Retires Legacy Plans: Expect a Price Increase FCC - Filing an Informal Complaint Why some Americans are forced to retire too soon - Marketplace A Single Change to Your Car-Buying Habits Could Add $250,000 to Retirement Gen Z 401(k) Savings Compared to Older Generations Discover the research-backed path to an earlier, happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com. All this and more on the September 4, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Note: No show on Monday due to Labor Day. Have a safe and wonderful weekend! Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  09.02.26 Timeshare Trap / Shopping Amazon A Better Way 02.09.2026 31min

  A surprising new study shows that Millennials and Gen Z account for 80% of all new timeshare purchases. In an era where homeownership feels increasingly out of reach for younger generations, buying into a timeshare might offer a psychological sense of owning real estate—but it is one of the worst financial traps you can walk into.  Also, how can you tell if something is a fake brand or not? There is a helpful new browser extension called Knockoff designed to clean up your Amazon search results. Because Amazon functions largely as a third-party marketplace and fulfillment house, the platform has been flooded with junky, counterfeit items and unknown knockoff brands. A member of Team Clark tested Knockoff and found it does a great job filtering out suspect sellers and warning you about low-quality duplicates as you shop. Read the full review. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 2, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Timeshare Trap: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Amazon Brand Filter: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: ⁠Why Timeshares Still Stink How To Sell, Cancel or Get Rid of Your Timeshare - Clark Howard Car Rental Insurance: Everything You Need To Know - Clark Howard Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know Air Traffic Control Chaos: Brace Yourself Travel Headaches Knockoff: The Free Tool That Spots Fake Brands on Amazon Why You Need To Lock Your Brokerage Account Today Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  09.01.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss 01.09.2026 35min

  In this episode, Wes shares why retiring as soon as possible is more critical than most people realize. He highlights why waiting too long can cost you the best, most active years of your life, and explains how the Retire Sooner Method helps you shave years off your career so you can enjoy true freedom while you still have the energy to use it. Also, Wes tackles one of the biggest threats facing new retirees today: Sequence of Returns Risk. Even in a strong market, market downturns in the first few years of retirement can drastically alter your long-term wealth. Through a side-by-side example of two retirees with identical 5% average returns, Wes demonstrates how early negative returns during active withdrawals can leave one person with nearly a million dollars less than the other. You'll gain a clear understanding of why timing matters just as much as average returns, along with practical steps to adjust early withdrawal strategies and safeguard your nest egg against market volatility. Mentioned on the show: Understanding The Biggest Risk to New Retirees (Sequence of Return Risk) All this and more on the September 1, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.31.26 Shopping Healthcare / Dealing With Debt Collection 31.08.2026 50min

  The American healthcare and financial systems can feel deeply broken, but you are not powerless. With healthcare costs skyrocketing and deductibles growing larger every year, many people feel trapped when facing a medical procedure. Clark shares an instructive real-world story from The Washington Post, explaining how price transparency (and lack thereof) impacts your wallet and why price-shopping non-emergency medical procedures is essential for protecting your savings. Clark also addresses the growing wave of financial stress facing millions of households now. As inflation strains budgets and credit card default rates rise, debt collectors are taking consumers to court in record numbers. If you or a loved one are dealing with aggressive debt collectors, Clark walks through your legal rights, how to stop harassing calls, and why getting every agreement in writing is non-negotiable. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the August 31, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Compare Medical Procedure Costs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Debt Collection Help: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: [WPost] His surgery was $23,000. After shopping around, he paid less than $5,000. Americans seeking affordable doctors and medicines abroad — The Conversation Is Medical Tourism Right for You? - Clark Howard 10 Ways To Save Money on Health Care - Clark Howard  Remove my private info from Google Search  /  Results about you Is the Privacy App Permission Slip Worth It? A Review 4 Rules Every Consumer Needs to Know to Fight Back Against Debt Collectors NYT: Debt Collection Suits Rise Sharply. Help for Consumers. How To Send a 'Drop Dead' Letter to a Collection Agency 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor - Clark Howard What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? - Clark Howard Best Free Password Managers: 10 Top Picks - Clark Howard How To Create and Use Passkeys - Clark Howard Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.28.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / AI & The Tech Effect On Employment 28.08.2026 36min

  Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa  shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.   Also,  every time a major technological shift happens, we hear predictions of widespread job destruction—and the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence is driving those fears to a whole new level. Clark breaks down what the AI boom actually means for your paycheck, how tech expansion shifts hidden costs onto consumers, and the concrete steps you can take today to pivot, re-educate, and make your career resilient against technological change. All this and more on the August 28, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 AI & Jobs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Top Fortune 500 Companies for Remote Work - Clark Howard How To Find a Trustworthy Mechanic - Clark Howard Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know Should I Keep My Old Car or Buy a New Car? - Clark Howard  NYTimes: A.I. Companies Are Recruiting Electricians and Carpenters by the Thousands Employers still place a premium on people skills, not AI, when making hiring decisions Should I Convert a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA? - Clark Howard  Top 7 Ways To Shop Safely Online - Clark Howard  Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.26.26 Food Tossed Is Money Lost / Couples Currency: Best Practices 26.08.2026 33min

  With food prices sky high, food waste is an area of real concern - and potential savings. Clark breaks down the truth behind confusing expiration dates like "Best By" versus "Use By" as marketing tactics designed to get you to buy more often. Also, Clark tackles a critical and all too common relationship issue: one partner completely in the dark about household money. A household culture of "he handles it" or "she takes care of that"  is a pathway to financial stress, hidden debt, and complete chaos if the unexpected occurs. Clark discusses how couples can maintain financial independence without secrets, and outlines a simple seasonal document routine to ensure both partners always know where all accounts, debts, and assets are located. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the August 26, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. Waste Not: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Couples’ Financials: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 10 Ways You’re Wasting Money on Groceries - Clark.com Do you toss food once the date on the label has passed? Experts say that's often a waste How To Choose a Tour Company - Clark Howard Best Cash Back Credit Cards: Setting Up a No Annual Fee Rewards System The Most Dangerous Words I Hear From Married Couples as a Financial Adviser: 'He Handles It' When You Should (and Shouldn't) Use a 529 Plan - Clark Howard Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.25.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss 25.08.2026 24min

  In this special episode, fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss answers your top questions on high-yield savings accounts, college planning, investing for grandchildren, preparing for retirement, and more. Whether you’re dealing with falling savings rates or trying to navigate high-yield dividend options, Wes breaks down the practical strategies you need to keep your money working for you. Mentioned on the show: Where Should You Keep Your Cash Reserve? - Clark Howard Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute The Biggest Investing Lesson From Trump Accounts - Clark Howard Best 529 College Savings Plans By State All this and more on the August 25, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – pre-order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.24.26 The U.S. Savings Rate / Home Buyer Warning 24.08.2026 32min

  The latest financial data shows the U.S. savings rate has dropped to an alarming rate. While many households are struggling just to cover the basics, many middle and upper-middle-class families are falling into the lifestyle trap. Find out what the new rate is and what you should aim for instead. Also today, new commission structures for home buyer agents are proving problematic.  Recent lawsuit settlements were supposed to make agent commissions more transparent and negotiable for home buyers. Instead, the law of unintended consequences has created a nightmare for consumers. If you are shopping for a home, know what to watch out for. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the August 24, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.  Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. Automatic Saving Gets It Done: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home Buyer Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: America’s Savings Rate Has Dropped to an Alarming Low How To Save Money: Spend Less & Build Your Savings  Do You Save More Than the Average American? - Clark Howard How Much of Each Paycheck You Should Save or Invest Why You Need To Lock Your Brokerage Account Today 7 Ways To Invest In Real Estate - Clark Howard Should You Pay Extra for Postal Insurance When Mailing Valuable Items? She tried to fire her real estate agent. It turned into a nightmare. New Real Estate Trap: How a Signed Paperwork Loophole Can Cost You Thousands How to Find a Geriatric Care Manager - Clark Howard What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? Long-Term Care Insurance Is Getting Harder To Buy. Here’s Why You Might Not Need It Anyway Unclaimed Money: How To Find and Claim Missing Funds for Free Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.21.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / WARNING: Online Medical Services 21.08.2026 32min

  Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa  shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.   Also,  many Americans are ordering medications from online websites and pharmacies, and a major player is being sued by the FTC. Online medical services promising quick prescriptions for sensitive conditions seem convenient, but they could be costing you more than money—they might be handing over your private health data. Clark discusses the broader boom of direct-to-consumer online doctor services and why you need to protect both your wallet and your privacy.  All this and more on the August 21, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Online Med Sites: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Is a 403(b) and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard How Do I Use All the Funds on My Visa Gift Card? - Clark Howard Best Secured Credit Cards for 2026: Top Picks for Building or Repairing Credit BBB - Hims & Hers Inc. WSJ: FTC Sues Hims & Hers, Alleging Unlawful Sharing of Data, Deceptive Billing Best Cash Management Account: Comparing Vanguard, Fidelity, and Schwab Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.19.26 The FIRE Movement Today / Pricing Mind Games 19.08.2026 37min

  If you think winning the lottery is the only way to achieve financial independence, think again! The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement has shifted drastically over the years in the wake of inflation, rising housing costs, and healthcare challenges, but the core principle of FI is more relevant today than ever. Clark shares his own journey—including retiring at 31 and  starting his first business by living on half his income—to show you how living on less than you make can buy you ultimate freedom. Also, are you really getting a discount, or are retailers just playing mind games? Clark exposes how major stores—especially in clothing and online marketplaces like Amazon—artificially inflate original prices just to mark them back down. Learn how to spot deceptive pricing tricks, use historic price-tracking tools, and resist psychological sales traps so you never get ripped off again. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the August 19, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. FIRE Movement Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Pricing Tricks: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Does Financial Freedom Mean To You? Our Six Levels What I got wrong about FIRE   /   How to Retire Early in 7 Steps Best Of: The Clark Origin Story  /  About Clark Howard What Is Mortgage Recasting? / Mortgage Recast Calculator How some retailers inflate original prices to create fake discounts How To Get the Best Price Possible Shopping Online - Clark Howard How To Use Camelcamelcamel - Clark Howard National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys Home NAELA Best Small Business Credit Cards - Clark Howard How Do I Remove Myself as an Authorized User on a Credit Card? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.18.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss 18.08.2026 42min

  What History Really Says About All-Time Market Highs & Should You Move to a 55+ Community? With the S&P 500 continuously hitting new all-time highs in 2026, many investors are wondering if the market has moved too far, too fast. In this episode, Wes Moss dives into the history of market highs, explaining why record-breaking runs are actually far more common—and far less dangerous—than headlines suggest. Also, Wes tackles one of the biggest lifestyle decisions in retirement: deciding where to live. Maintaining a vibrant social circle gets harder as we age, but moving to an active 55+ community can provide the built-in social network, amenities, and lifestyle needed to thrive. Wes walks through a real-life case study of how to properly research, visit during peak seasons, and test-drive these neighborhoods before buying. Plus, he reveals a clever tax strategy for funding your next home without triggering a massive tax bill. Mentioned on the show: Should You Be Nervous About All-Time Market Highs? What History Really Tells Us The Overlooked 'Rule of 55' Could Unlock an Earlier Retirement A Simple Rule for When To Take Social Security Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the August 18, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – pre-order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com  We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.17.26 Renters Face New Junk Fees / Tap-To-Pay Scam Warning 17.08.2026 29min

  Finding an affordable rental was hard enough, but now landlords are taking a cue from hotels and airlines by hitting tenants with hidden junk fees. From mandatory charges for bundled trash pickup and overpriced cable to outrageous $200 monthly add-ons just for working from home, these unexpected fees inflate the cost of living. When apartment hunting, Clark urges us to check for this specific list before committing to a lease. Meanwhile, tap-to-pay remains one of the safest ways to shop using digital tokenization, but scammers have found a clever way to exploit your generosity. Fraudsters posing as street solicitors for fake charities are asking people to tap their phones to donate, only to take the device and quietly alter a $20 donation into a $200 charge. Clark shares what you need to know to protect your wallet. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the August 17, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. Renter Junk Fees: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Phone Tap-To-Pay Alert: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The rent was already high. Then came the $200 work-from-home fee -USA TODAY  Clark Deals: Today’s Top Travel Deals How To Use Priceline To Save on Travel - Clark Howard Military and Veterans Guide: Free Resources for Your Finances Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips - Clark Howard Costco Travel: 5 Things To Know Before You Book - Clark Howard USA TODAY: Tap to pay is convenient. These 6 steps can protect your money Empower Review: How It Works, Pros & Cons - Clark Howard Best Budgeting Apps in 2026: Our Top 7 - Clark Howard Clark.com Calculators Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08-14-26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Essential Documents 14.08.2026 32min

  Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa  shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.    Also, to protect your young adult and give your family peace of mind, there are critical legal and financial forms every teenager should sign at age 18. Setting up these documents is simple, inexpensive, and essential for any family navigating the transition to adulthood. Taking a few minutes to put these protections in place today can save your family from unnecessary hardship when it matters most, as Clark explains. All this and more on the August 14, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Essential Signings: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What's the Best Thermostat Setting for Summer To Save Money? 5 Major Bills You Can Lower This Month - Clark Howard Fixed Wireless Internet: Using Your Cellular Service Provider for Home Internet Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It? - Clark Howard 3 Financial Documents Everyone Should Have by Age 18 What Do I Need To Do To Make Sure My Financial Affairs Are in Order Before I Die or Become Disabled? Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card To Pay for Anything Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  08.12.26 One Bad Apple Deal / CDs: Opportunity And Method 12.08.2026 33min

  Apple device prices are soaring due to rising hardware costs, and their newest solution is to offer “forever leases” on iPhones, Macs, and iPads for a fixed monthly fee. While this subscription-style leasing model might make sense if you’re a tech enthusiast, it’s a dangerous financial trap for the average consumer. Before you fall for the low monthly sticker price—or get tied down by a carrier’s misleading "free phone" promotion—understand the long-term cost to your wallet. On the savings front, everyday savers have a prime opportunity now to lock in high returns before interest rates drop. If you have cash you won't need for 1 to 5 years, Certificates of Deposit (CDs) are one of the safest ways to beat inflation. Clark walks us through how to easily purchase broker-placed CDs through top discount brokerages or reputable online banks, why you should strictly avoid giant mega-banks that offer virtually zero interest, and how to protect yourself from the predatory "auto-rollover" trap that slashes your rates the moment your term ends. Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the August 12, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark. Apple Trap: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 CD Opportunity: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should You Lease an iPhone Through Apple Upgrade? Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It? - Clark Howard Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK Eurostar.com: Book Europe Train Tickets and Holidays When Do You Need a Travel Agent? - Clark Howard Is Now the Time To Get a CD or a CD Ladder? Certificate of Deposit (CD): What Is It, Best Places To Open One CD Interest Calculator  /   What To Do BEFORE Your CD Expires BBB-File a Complaint How to Protect Your Wallet From Rental Car 'Gotchas' - Clark Howard Should I Use a Credit Card or Give Up My Bank Account Info To Save 2.3%? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices