The Clark Howard Podcast

Forced To Retire Early? The Shocking Data Everyone Needs To Know & Market Warning for Investors Why do most Americans retire years earlier than they planned? In this episode, Wes Moss breaks down a startling trend from recent 2026 retirement studies. While most workers plan to clock out around age 65 or 66, the data shows the average actual retirement age is 61 or 62. Wes explores the three major reasons behind this gap – and shares the exact planning strategy you need to protect your financial future. Also, Wes dives into recent market volatility. While the market managed a shockingly fast 12-day recovery, Wes issues a crucial warning: this speed is the exception, not the rule. Learn the historical reality of market corrections so you don't get lulled into a false sense of security. Plus, Mallory shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the May 26, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, while many of us use fitness trackers to count steps or monitor sleep, the latest data shows some of these devices are evolving into genuine lifesavers. Clark has worn a Garmin for twenty years and a Samsung smartwatch, but the Oura Ring has truly impressed him and for good reason, as new findings indicate. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Oura Reports: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Is Turo Legit? 5 Things To Know Before You Use It 5 of Clark Howard's Most Extreme Frugal Hacks What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? - Clark Howard The Insurance Policies You Need (and Some You Don't) What Age Are Americans Actually Starting Social Security? Term Life vs. Whole Life Insurance: Understanding the Difference Oura Ring Helps Uncover 'Multiple Cases of Lymphoma,' Says Its Chief Medical Officer Axios: Finish Line: The quiet rise of "prescribing connection" 4 Ways To Stop Junk Mail - Clark Howard How To Choose the Best Charities for Your Donations - Clark Howard Memorial Day 2026: Facts, Meaning & Traditions 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

With Memorial Day weekend upon us, Clark shares important travel know-how. Navigating the rental car counter has become more like rocket science than a simple travel chore, but protecting your wallet starts with a few simple steps. With "car rental rage" on the rise due to surprise charges and poor service, it is critical to follow Clark’s timely rules. Also, if you’re looking for a domestic getaway, soft demand in a normally popular travel market presents a golden opportunity for the savvy traveler! Clark’s Rental Cars 101: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Vegas Nerve: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips - Clark Howard Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know American Express Platinum Card® Review: Is It Worth It? Amex premium car rental protection 5 Things to Know About the Costco Car Rental Program 3 Reasons You Should Never Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room HotelTonight: Last Minute Hotel Deals at Great Hotels Priceline - Find Cheap Hotel Rooms & Discount Hotels Travel Archives - 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

10 Essential Duties of a Real Fiduciary Financial Advisor (It’s Not Just Investing) If you think a financial advisor’s only job is to pick stocks, you’re missing out on the most valuable services a true fiduciary provides. In this episode, Wes Moss breaks down the ten essential roles a fee-only advisor should play. Whether you are engineering a retirement cash flow or navigating the emotional rollercoaster of market volatility, learn why a real fiduciary is your "personal CFO" for every major life decision, not just your investment portfolio.Mentioned on the show: What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? Best Financial Advisors in 2026 - Clark Howard How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor - Clark Howard Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the May 19, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recent financial statistics reveal something highly disturbing: The average American saves just 4% of their pay. Saving just four cents of every dollar earned is inadequate to provide long-term security and leaves the majority of the country living on the edge of a financial cliff. If you find yourself stuck in this cycle, it is time to embrace the "penny-at-a-time" strategy. Also, the upcoming Memorial Day weekend brings massive sales events at furniture stores. The industry is flat on its back due to a frozen housing market, with many retailers in acute financial distress. If you’re in the market for furniture, know how to play the pay game strategically to avoid getting burned. Average Saving Doesn’t Cut It: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Warning: Furniture Sales: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 4 simple ways to start saving Save Money Archives - Clark Howard Simple Trick To Pay Down Credit Card Debt Quicker - Clark Howard What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids? 4 Types of Term Life Insurance Companies Explained - Clark Howard Why You Need To Check Your Credit Report Today - Clark Howard NYTimes: America’s Furniture Stores Struggle to Survive a Frozen Housing Market 5 Things to Know About New Settlement That Could Change Credit Card Rewards SIM Card Swapping: The Dangerous Cell Phone Scam Everyone Needs To Know About This Simple iPhone Update Stops Dangerous Spyware From Stealing Your Data What Is a Passkey and How Do Passkeys Work? 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, a knock on your door from a roofer claiming they’ve spotted hail damage via drone might feel like a lucky break, but it’s often a trap. While the idea of getting a "free new roof" is tempting, filing small or questionable claims is an abuse the industry no longer tolerates. Clark’s home insurance philosophy is an essential must-know to protect your wallet. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Hail Damage Claims: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs - Clark Howard Why You Should Consider Security Cameras (Without the Monthly Subscription) 6 Cheap DIY Home Security Systems - Clark Howard Why Study Abroad Can Lead To Higher Starting Salaries For U.S. Graduates - Forbes Clark Howard: Habitat for Humanity / Habitat Rethinking Homeowners Insurance: The Catastrophe-Only Rule When Should You File a Claim on Your Homeowners Insurance? Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard Where Should You Keep Your Cash Reserve? - Clark Howard Scam Alert: New ‘Party Invite’ Message Can Empty Your Bank Account 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

While Congress has made it easier than ever to access 401(k) funds through hardship withdrawals, this can be a dangerous trap for your future self. Losing out on decades of compounded interest has long-term consequences. Before you hit retirement savings to cover a financial bump, use the Team Clark 401(k) Loan Calculator to see the true cost of that withdrawal – it might just convince you to find another way to bridge the gap. Also, Clark breaks down how Amazon has partnered with vehicle brands in new markets, offering another option for more streamlined car buying. Know how to bypass the gimmicks and games to get a fair price on your next vehicle. 401(k) Loans: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Car Buying Process: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Is a 401(k) Loan a Good Idea? Almost Never - Clark Howard 401(k) Loan Calculator (Clark.com) Clark Howard's Special Rule for Refinancing Your Mortgage Why Clark Says You Should ‘Ignore’ Paze as Trendy New Payment Option Why You Should Never Store Your Payment Information Online Top 7 Ways To Shop Safely Online - Clark Howard Why Amazon and Costco May Be The Best Ways to Buy Your Next Car The Best Car-Buying Services - Clark Howard Report: 4 Used Electric Vehicles Under $25,000 - Clark Howard What Mileage Should I Target on a Used Electric Vehicle? CR - Used Hybrids & EVs Ratings SIXT+ | Your Car Subscription Should You Ever Lease a Car? - 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

Clark Howard & Wes Moss: Your Top Money Questions Answered! In this special episode, Clark Howard and Wes Moss join forces to answer real-world money questions from people just like you. No jargon, no fluff – just actionable advice to help you reach your goals faster. Mentioned on the show: Roth 401k Calculator - Clark Howard Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? - Clark Howard Why Clark Howard Is Obsessed With Roth for Retirement Savings Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute All this and more on the May 12, 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s real estate market, you can get burned trying to “flip” homes. The reality of today’s market means the math rarely works for the average investor. Clark explains when we’ll see a healthy environment for investment. Also - The job market is wide open for those willing to roll up their sleeves. Despite foreboding headlines warning of grim prospects for graduates, young people are finding employment more easily than expected. This is especially true for teens looking for summer work. Due to labor shortages in the hospitality and restaurant industries, jobs are readily available. Clark discusses where the summer (and year round) jobs are now. Real Estate Investing: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Where The Jobs Are: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest? / Calculator - Clark Howard Why Your Teen Needs a Summer Job Jobs Archives - Clark Howard Authorized User vs. Joint Account Holder - Clark Howard How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft - Clark Howard How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Who Controls Gas Prices in the US? / NYT: Why Gas Prices Go Up Fast & Fall Slowly How To Save Money on Gas: 23 Ways - Clark Howard Don't Get Dinged at the Gas Pump by This Visa and Mastercard Policy Are You Getting the Best Discount Possible on Your Gas? Clark Howard's 'Half-Tank' Strategy To Save on Gas 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, deciding whether to throw extra cash at your mortgage or funnel it into the stock market is one of the most debated dilemmas in personal finance, especially now that nearly a quarter of homeowners are carrying rates at 6% or higher. While Clark despises debt and champions the psychological freedom of owning your home free and clear, it’s vital to balance that achievement with the mathematical reality of long-term financial security. Clark offers guidelines for creating your financial priorities, including Team Clark’s new Pay Off Mortgage or Invest Calculator, to help make sure your money is working as hard as possible for the future. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Financial Priorities: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What’s the Total Value of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Perks? Top 10 Perks of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Report: How Much You Need To Save in Each State To Retire Comfortably Best Prepaid Cards: Top Debit Card Alternatives - Clark Howard Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest? - Clark Howard Pay Off Mortgage or Invest Calculator (Clark.com) When You Should (and Shouldn't) Use a 529 Plan - Clark Howard Best 529 Plans by State: How Clark Howard Picks the Top College Savings Plans How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps - Clark Howard Best Term Life Insurance Companies, Plans & Coverage 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

Health care costs in America have reached a breaking point, with many being forced to drop costly medical insurance entirely. But whether you’re insured or paying out of pocket, you have more power than you think. Today, Clark discusses a key practice you can incorporate to help manage the high cost of health care. Also, we are currently in a period of intense retail instability. Clark explains how your gift cards can become worthless overnight, so in the interest of not wasting money - Clark has an urgent assignment for joyful spending - of gift cards that is. Healthcare Cost Strategy: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Use Or Lose Gift Cards Stat: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Health care sticker shock has become the norm, but talking to your doctor about costs can help you rein it in — The Conversation⁠ What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It? - Clark Howard How to Freeze Your Child's Credit - Clark Howard Why You Need To Use Your Gift Cards ASAP - Clark Howard 10 Secrets All Shoppers Need To Know About Costco - Clark Howard Ting: Fire Prevention & Power Outage Alerts How To Lower Your Property Taxes in 4 Steps - 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

What Will Our College Grads Do for Work? & Is the U.S. Dollar Dying? In this episode, Wes Moss debunks two of the biggest myths in the economy right now. First, Wes looks at the actual data behind youth unemployment. Despite the rise of AI, the numbers for college grads aged 22–27 remain remarkably stable. Wes explains why the labor market is far more dynamic than the "net new jobs" headlines suggest – and why there is plenty of reason for parents to be optimistic about their children's careers. Also, Wes addresses the "Death of the Dollar." From global trade invoices to commodity pricing, Wes breaks down why the U.S. Dollar remains the undisputed heavyweight of the global economy, despite the constant "De-dollarization" doom-talk in the news. Mentioned on the show: YCharts - Financial Research and Proposal Platform Review and Rebalance Your Portfolio With X-Ray’s New Holdings Breakdown Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the May 5, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.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

There’s a new scam hitting inboxes that several of our team members admit would have fooled them. Digital thieves are sending fake party invitations that appear to be coming from your friends. After hacking into email contact lists, scammers send out deceptive invites to download viruses onto your device, giving them access to your financial accounts and private emails. Know what to do before clicking any links. Also today, learn - how to tell if a debt collector is legit, actionable strategies if faced with collector harassment, and where to turn for legitimate help paying off debt. The Party Invite Scam: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Debt Collection & Debt Relief: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Scam Alert: New ‘Party Invite’ Message Can Empty Your Bank Account Fraud Is Skyrocketing: 5 Ways To Protect Your Hard-Earned Assets Why You Should Never Click on Random Text Messages The Best Place To Buy a Mattress - Clark Howard Which Documents Should You Keep and for How Long? How To Send a 'Drop Dead' Letter to a Collection Agency What to Do When You're Being Harassed About an Old "Zombie Debt" 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling Avalanche vs. Snowball: Which Debt Payoff Method Is Best? How To Build Your Credit Score from Scratch - 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today - While the widespread adoption of security cameras has revolutionized public safety, their application is spurring privacy debate throughout the country. The rules of engagement for our data are dangerously lacking. It's time to demand clear state and local laws that delineate how this data is stored and shared, especially when private businesses are involved. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Security Camera Privacy Backlash: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Simple Trick To Pay Down Credit Card Debt Quicker - Clark Howard How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Should I Freeze My Credit With the Other Credit Bureaus? Cameras have quietly appeared in thousands of US cities – now, their integration with AI is sounding alarms — The Conversation What Is a Roth 401(k) and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard Target Date Funds: Clark Howard's Favorite Retirement Investment How To Choose Funds in Your 401(k) (and How Not To) Fidelity Investments Review: Pros & Cons - Clark Howard Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Life Insurance Archives - 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

Now is a good time for some financial spring cleaning. Take a close look at your bank statements to identify any "subscription creep" draining your wallet. Clark shares a pro-tip to simplify tracking expenses so you know exactly where your money is going every month. Also, a timeshare by any other name — like "vacation plan" — is still a timeshare. And they have seen a massive resurgence. Big-name hotel brands have revamped these contracts, offering "points" and flexibility instead of the old-school fixed week and location. Clark’s advice remains unchanged: don't let the lure of escapism turn into a permanent financial obligation you can't escape. Financial Spring Cleaning: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Timeshare Resurgence -Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 7 Ideas for Saving Money on Your Streaming TV Bill in 2026 How To Manage Your Monthly Subscriptions To Save Money 7 Types of Subscriptions You May Want To Cancel Today How To Get a Gym Membership for Practically Free - Clark Howard What Is Service Line Insurance and Do I Need It? - Clark Howard Why Vacation Clubs Are Even Worse Than Timeshares How To Sell, Cancel or Get Rid of Your Timeshare - Clark Howard 5 Money Tips To Know Before You Travel Abroad - 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

Why Retirement Confidence Is Plunging & Fiduciary vs. Financial Advisor Wes Moss breaks down a troubling shift in the American economy: the rapid decline of retirement confidence. Drawing on three decades of data from the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI), Wes highlights a staggering trend where worker confidence has dropped in 2026. This pessimistic outlook is mirrored by the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment index, which has hit an all-time historical low. Wes identifies the primary culprit. Also, Wes tackles the crucial question of who you should trust to manage your money during these uncertain times. He demystifies the industry by comparing financial advisors to peppers in a grocery store: while they may look identical on the outside, their "heat" levels vary wildly. Wes discusses why transparency is key and provides actionable advice on how to check your advisor's contract to ensure your investments are working for you, not for your advisor's bottom line. Mentioned on the show: WSJ - America’s Most Tortured Retirement Regulation Is Struck Down (Again) How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Best Financial Advisors in 2026 - Clark Howard What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the April 28, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.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

Many Americans reaching millionaire status still feel like they are standing on shaky financial ground. Clark explains the psychological and cultural traps that can keep high earners feeling insecure - and how the "bear preparing for winter" strategy can build financial confidence. Also, with all the job scams and ghost job listings out there now, how do you know an opportunity is real? Whether seeking career change or a part-time gig, con artists are using fake listings to harvest your identity and your money. Clark reveals the red flags to watch for, including the essential "verify before you apply" workflow. Financial Confidence: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Job Scams: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: High-Income But Low Confidence? This 5-Point Plan From a Financial Planner Can Fix That Credit Cards That Can Beat 2% Cash Back on Everyday Purchases Earn a $200 Cash Bonus With This Credit Card - Clark Howard Where Should I Set Up My Health Savings Account (HSA)? Clark.com - CREDIT CARDS How to avoid a side hustle scam Why You Should Keep Old Credit Card Accounts Open - Clark Howard How and When To Cancel a Credit Card - 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today - it’s prom season, and so many kids and parents are breaking the bank to pay for it! Prom has officially turned into a high-pressure, "red-carpet" event driven more by social media likes than actual memories. Clark is here to tell you that you don't have to go into debt to have a great time. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Prom Spending: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The Best Car-Buying Services - Clark Howard These Credit Cards Are America’s Favorites on Latest Consumer Survey These Are the Most and Least Expensive States for Home Insurance 9 Ways To Pay for College Without Student Loans - Clark Howard My Tax Preparer Made a Mistake: What Can I Do? Best Sites to Start an LLC - We Ranked Them All 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

Clark takes on the touchy subject of merging finances with a significant other. The transition from financial independence to shared responsibility requires planning and ongoing conversations. Clark warns that silence is the enemy of a healthy relationship. Also today, Clark revisits the popular dream of retiring on a cruise ship. While "living at sea" was once considered a brilliant financial hack, the post-COVID landscape has changed the math entirely. Clark breaks down the current reality. Couples & Finances: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cruise Ship Residency: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark Howard's 5 Money Tips for Couples Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? - Clark Howard My Teenage Daughter Just Got $2,000. Should I Open a Bank Account for Her? Living on a Cruise Ship in Retirement: A Brilliant Hack or a Costly Mistake? Elliott Report: Home Unclaimed Money: How To Find and Claim Missing Funds for Free Going™ | Flight Alerts, Mistake Fares & Cheap Tickets 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

Why Successful People Struggle With Retirement & What’s Going On With the Economy? In this episode, Wes tackles the psychological hurdle that many high-achievers face when they finally reach the "Retirement Green Zone." After decades of using hard work, discipline, and ambition to build a nest egg, it can be incredibly difficult to simply turn that drive off. Wes discusses the "ambition guilt" that many retirees feel when they pursue creative hobbies or passions that don’t generate a paycheck. Rather than viewing this transition as "lowering" your ambition, Wes argues that the key to a happy retirement is rechanneling that legendary work ethic into areas that feed your soul instead of your bank account. Also, it can feel like we’re in a confusing state of the 2026 economy, where record-breaking corporate data seems at odds with the reality on the ground. While U.S. company profits soared by 26% in late 2025 and nominal GDP has grown significantly since 2019, many consumers are still feeling the weight of high prices. Wes explains how we are living in a "K-shaped" economy and breaks down what these disparities mean for your wallet and how to navigate an environment where productivity is higher than ever, but the benefits aren't being shared equally. Mentioned on the show: How I Became Less Ambitious—and Happier—in Retirement Pension vs Lump Sum Calculator - Clark Howard Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the April 21, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.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