The Clark Howard Podcast

As summer winds down, we’re seeing some wild shifts in the airline industry. Despite recent price hikes, a two-tiered economy in travel has created surprising opportunities for budget-conscious travelers. Clark breaks down why you need to sign up for frequent flyer programs right now, what you actually get (and lose) with new unbundled luxury fares, and where to find the best flight deals over the coming months.

Also, your homeowners insurance company might feel like a "frenemy," but you can make them work for your wallet with a few simple DIY home upgrades. Learn how a weekend DIY project can protect your home, prevent costly disasters, and keep more money in your pocket every month!

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the August 3, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark.

Air Travel Updates: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

DIY Home Upgrades: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

How To Score Cheap Fall Airfare and Award Flights

The Extra Mile -Delta’s Basic Premium Fares-LifeMiles ‘Revalues’ Biz Class Awards

NYTimes: A Guide to Basic Business / Why You Should Re-Shop Your Cruise

European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

Life360 | Family-Proof Your Family | Location Sharing & Safety

Easy DIY Upgrades To Save on Home Insurance

Axios: Treat your home like a hobby

Clark Howard's 5 Money Tips for Couples / How To Open a Roth IRA

Why Clark Howard Is Obsessed With Roth for Retirement Savings

Clark Howard's 5 Money Tips for Couples

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 6 Things To Know

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts

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Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, with real estate values skyrocketing past the rate of inflation, homeowners across the country are facing massive property tax hikes—and in some cases, people are literally being priced out of their homes. The core idea should be simple: no one should be forced out of their home due to runaway tax bills. You can appeal on your own, hire a specialized company, or bring in an attorney for larger commercial properties. The key is to act fast: pay close attention to your assessment, check the math, and fight for your money!

All this and more on the July 31, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your opinions or questions: Ask Clark.

Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2

Property Tax Sticker Shock: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs - Clark Howard

Why Clark Howard Has Ditched Bill Pay and What He's Doing Instead

When You Should (and Shouldn't) Use a 529 Plan - Clark Howard

How Long Do You Need To Keep Tax Documents? - Clark Howard

Safer Ways To Send Money: Clark Howard’s Rules for Protecting Your Cash

America is in the middle of the biggest property tax revolt in 50 years

Report: The States With the 10 Highest and Lowest Property Taxes

A Single Change to Your Car-Buying Habits Could Add $250,000 to Retirement

The Sneaky Web Tricks Costing You Money - Clark Howard

Stop Paying for a Credit Card You Barely Use - Clark Howard

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts

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The stock market is sitting at historical highs, but inflated valuations mean we could be facing a major correction or extended period of low returns. With leveraged funds adding dangerous fuel to this speculative fire, the risk of a sharp market shock is real. If you’re approaching or currently in retirement, now is the time to review your portfolio.

On the consumer front, T-Mobile is turning its back on the customer-first culture that made it famous, forcing legacy subscribers off locked-in rates and hitting loyal users with continuous price increases. You don’t have to accept a bloated cell phone bill. By breaking up family plans based on actual usage, avoiding the "free iPhone" trap that locks you into expensive contracts, and exploring budget-friendly sub-brands that use the exact same towers, you can slash your monthly bill down to $10–$30 a line. Calculate your annual cell phone spend today—you might be shocked by how much you can save! Compare plans right now at clark.com/phoneplanfinder.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the July 29, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

High Market Anxiety: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

Beat Cell Service Hikes: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

A Key Investing Lesson to Remember Right Now

How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor - Clark Howard

The next crash: why this time might not be different

Why You Need To Lock Your Brokerage Account Today

What Is a Solo 401(k) and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard

T-Mobile Retires Legacy Plans: Expect a Price Increase - Clark.com

Why Now Is the Time To Switch Your Cell Phone Service

How To Get a Free Cell Phone in 2026 (Best Deals + Hidden Catch)

The Best Phone Plan For You – Compare Phone Plans

What Should You Do if Your Insurance Claim Is Denied?

Credit Score Guide - Clark Howard

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts

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What Are The Money Green Zones? & The Happy Retiree Super Power

Are you flying blind when it comes to your retirement savings? Forget the terrifying headlines telling you that you need tens of millions of dollars to retire—that kind of advice often does more damage than good by making your goals feel completely out of reach. In this episode, Wes Moss breaks down brand-new research on what everyday Americans actually have saved and introduces three attainable, concrete "Money Green Zones" where happiness levels and financial autonomy jump dramatically. Plus, Wes reveals the ultimate superpower of happy retirees that has nothing to do with your bank account, and everything to do with your well-being.

Mentioned on the show:

Betterment Review: How It Works, Pros & Cons - Clark Howard

Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2026

A Key Investing Lesson to Remember Right Now

Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the July 28, 2026, Ask an Advisor 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

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It’s the toughest role reversal we face in life: stepping in to manage aging parents' finances. As parents get older, it’s common for physical health to take priority while finances take a back seat. Clark breaks down the vital lessons on elder-parent care. Waiting until a crisis or a parent's passing to look for wills, passwords, and bank accounts guarantees chaos later.

Also, Clark tackles a growing budget buster for some homeowners: surging HOA and condo fees. What used to be a minor monthly expense has turned into a massive financial strain due to "amenities creep" and inflation. Clark warns that an HOA acts like its own taxing authority with the power to fine you or even foreclose on your home, making it vital to know exactly what you are signing up for before you buy. If you already live in a community where the board is running amuck, Clark shares his personal experience serving on three different boards and explains why organizing with your neighbors and running for a seat is the ultimate way to protect your wallet.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the July 27, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

Oversight Beats Hindsight: Aging Parents: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

HOA & Condo Fees: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

Checklist: What to discuss with aging parents about finances

NYTimes: 5 Money Lessons From Readers in the Trenches of Elder-Parent Care

How Two Clark-Approved Annuities Can Reduce Retirement Stress

Why Your HOA Fees Are Skyrocketing⁠

Should You Make Your Child an Authorized User on Your Credit Card?

What Is a Secured Credit Card and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard

The Biggest Investing Lesson From Trump Accounts

Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips - 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