NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast

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NerdWallet’s trusted finance journalists answer real-world money questions to help you make smarter financial decisions with confidence.

Each episode dives deep into topics like budgeting, saving, investing, home buying, and credit cards, cutting through misinformation to bring you clear, actionable advice backed by thorough research.

By the end of every episode, you’ll have the latest financial insights and the tools you’ll need to manage your money wisely, build wealth, and plan for life’s milestones. Future You will thank you.

Join hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, Elizabeth Ayoola, and other expert Nerds as they answer your biggest money questions and share strategies to help you build wealth and reach your financial goals, including:

– Investing: Advanced investment strategies, integrating ETFs and mutual funds into a diversified portfolio, tax-efficient retirement planning, understanding Roth IRA conversions, and navigating robo-advisors.

– Credit Cards: Top credit cards for travel rewards and luxury perks, balance transfer strategies, maximizing credit card points, and optimizing credit card usage to boost your credit score.

– Personal Finance: Advanced budgeting tips, building generational wealth, creating effective savings plans, managing high-income expenses, and developing a strong money growth mindset.

– Home: Smart strategies for homebuying in competitive markets, leveraging home equity loans and HELOCs, refinancing for long-term savings, first-time homebuying tips, and budgeting for major home improvements.

If you’re searching for the best personal finance podcasts or want practical knowledge to make smarter money decisions, then follow NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast.

You’ll love NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast if you like podcasts like: Planet Money, The Personal Finance Podcast, DIY Money, Afford Anything, How to Money, The Ramsey Show, Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin, NPR’s Life Kit: Money, Popcorn Finance, Money Girl,Money Guy Show, Everyone’s Talkin’ Money, So Money with Farnoosh Tarabi, The Money with Katie Show, All the Hacks with Chris Hutchins, The Stacking Benjamins Show, MoneyWatch with Jill Schlesinger, or Your Money, Your Wealth.

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Recent Hosts, Guests & Topics

Here's a quick summary of the last 5 episodes on NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast.

Hosts

Sean Pyles Elizabeth Ayoola

Previous Guests

Anna Helhoski
Anna Helhoski is a senior news writer at NerdWallet, focusing on economic issues and personal finance. She has extensive experience in reporting on the national debt, government spending, and financial literacy. Anna aims to educate the public on complex financial topics, making them accessible and understandable for everyday Americans.
Shannon Bradley
Shannon Bradley is an auto writer at NerdWallet, focusing on the automotive industry and its financial implications. She offers expertise on car buying strategies and market analysis, helping consumers navigate the complexities of purchasing vehicles.
Amanda Barroso
Amanda Barroso is a personal finance writer at NerdWallet, known for her work on budgeting, saving, and financial planning. She assists readers in understanding how to balance spending and saving while achieving their financial goals.
Bella Avila
Bella Avila is a tax writer at NerdWallet, specializing in providing insights and guidance on tax-related topics. With a background in finance and a focus on helping individuals navigate the complexities of tax filing, Bella offers practical advice for various tax situations, including those involving multiple states and self-employment. Her expertise helps listeners understand their tax obligations and find solutions to common tax challenges.
June Sham
June Sham is the personal finance lead writer at NerdWallet, where she specializes in providing insights and advice on various investment options and retirement planning strategies. With a background in finance and a passion for helping individuals make informed financial decisions, June contributes to discussions on topics such as 401(k) plans, brokerage accounts, and overall investment strategies.
Naomi
Naomi is a married individual who, along with her partner Andrew, is navigating the complexities of aligning financial goals and values within their relationship. They discuss their experiences and strategies for managing finances as a couple.
Andrew
Andrew is a married individual who, together with his partner Naomi, is focused on aligning their financial priorities and goals. He shares insights on budgeting and financial planning as a couple.

Topics Discussed

auto tariffs car prices financial planning spending vs saving budgeting credit building financial goals investing life experiences tax questions financial documents tax filing tips document storage IRS payment plan tax software tax anxiety freelancer tax filing national debt 401k brokerage account retirement savings US debt ceiling debt to GDP ratio investment options Roth IRA traditional 401k retirement planning building wealth couples finance Roth 401(k) emergency funds
Episodes

Here's the recent few episodes on NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast.

0:00 37:33

How To Have a Better Relationship With Money and Maximize Every Dollar

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

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

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

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

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

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

To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.
0:00 37:09

Car Prices, Tariffs, and Trade-Offs: What to Know Before You Buy or Move Out

Hosts
Sean Pyles Elizabeth Ayoola
Guests
Anna Helhoski Shannon Bradley Amanda Barroso
Keywords
auto tariffs car prices financial planning spending vs saving budgeting credit building financial goals investing life experiences
Learn how tariffs could impact car prices and how to know when it’s OK to spend instead of save.

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

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

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

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

To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.
0:00 29:11

Last-Minute Tax Questions Answered and Tips for Keeping Your Financial Documents Safe

Hosts
Sean Pyles Elizabeth Ayoola
Guests
Bella Avila
Keywords
tax questions financial documents tax filing tips document storage IRS payment plan tax software tax anxiety freelancer tax filing
Learn how to store all your important documents and get some last-minute tips for filing your taxes. 

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

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

NerdWallet’s list of best tax software: https://www.nerdwallet.com/p/best/taxes/tax-software 

NerdWallet’s list of best identity protection services: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/comparing-identity-theft-protection-services 

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

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

To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.
0:00 21:36

401(k) vs. Brokerage Account: Which Is Better for Retirement Savings? Plus, the National Debt Explained

Hosts
Sean Pyles Elizabeth Ayoola
Guests
June Sham Anna Helhoski
Keywords
national debt 401k brokerage account retirement savings US debt ceiling debt to GDP ratio investment options Roth IRA traditional 401k retirement planning
Learn about the U.S. national debt and how it impacts economics and what options to explore if your employer-offered 401k plan seems limiting. 

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

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

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

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

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

To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.
0:00 37:27

How to Build Wealth Right Now and How Couples Can Align on Financial Goals

Hosts
Sean Pyles Elizabeth Ayoola
Guests
Naomi Andrew
Keywords
building wealth financial goals couples finance Roth IRA Roth 401(k) emergency funds budgeting investing financial planning
Learn the truth behind myths about building wealth, plus hear from a couple looking to align on  financial goals and values.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.
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4.4 rating 642 reviews
USA
4.4 ratings 626 reviews
Canada
4.6 ratings 12 reviews
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