Best NerdWallet Travel Podcasts (2025)

1
Smart Planning Sessions: Go “Work Optional” and Move Retirement Funds Penalty-Free (Plus: Your Midyear Money Check-In) 38:28

Play Pause

5h ago38:28

38:28

In this month’s Smart Planning segment, a financial advisor discusses how to transfer retirement funds penalty-free and how to adopt a “work optional” mindset. How can you check in on your financial progress halfway through the year? What steps do you need to follow to move your Roth IRA from a robo-advisor to a self-directed platform without payin…

1
Buy Now, Pay Later Comes at a Price: Credit Score Risks You Need to Know (Plus: $124k Windfall Tips) 33:08

4d ago33:08

33:08

Understand how Buy Now, Pay Later financing options affect your credit and learn smart strategies for using a six-figure inheritance wisely. How does Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) affect your credit score? What’s the smartest way to invest or use an unexpected inheritance? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the evolving credit implications o…

1
How to Travel the World on $75 a Day: What Savvy Travelers Do Differently to Make Every Dollar Count 32:24

5d ago32:24

32:24

Stretch your travel budget with smarter planning, real savings hacks, and $75-a-day global travel strategies. Can you really see the world for just $75 a day? Can you cut travel costs without sacrificing comfort or experience? Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss planning a trip for less than $75 per day with Matt Kepnes, aka Nomadic Matt. But fir…

1
Amazon Prime Day Hacks and Budgeting Tips for Emotional Shoppers 31:28

7d ago31:28

31:28

Learn how to approach Amazon Prime day without blowing your budget and hear how you can start to understand the emotions that might be driving your spending. What are the best ways to take advantage of big sales like Amazon Prime Day but still stay on track with your budget? How can you get a handle on emotional spending and the guilt that comes wi…

1
How to Retire Early and Live Abroad: Your Guide to Making FIRE Last (Plus: 2025 Gas Prices Explained) 36:11

11d ago36:11

36:11

Learn how to navigate gas prices this summer, then hear how to make your money work after retiring early and moving abroad. What’s going on with gas prices this summer? How can early retirees turn their savings into income abroad? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss gas price trends and smart investment options for early retirees to help …

1
What AI Can’t Book: How Travel Advisors Deliver VIP Perks at No Extra Cost 34:00

12d ago34:00

34:00

Learn what it’s like working with a travel advisor, including how much time and money they can really save you when planning your next trip. Can travel advisors really save you money? Should you be booking travel yourself or outsourcing the job to a professional? Hosts Megan Coyle and Sally French discuss the unexpected perks, cost structures, and …

1
Overcome Emotional Spending and Spot Job Scams That Could Cost You Thousands 36:51

14d ago36:51

36:51

Learn how to reset spending habits after emotional setbacks and protect yourself from job scams that cost real money. How do you reset your money goals after emotional setbacks? How do you avoid job scams that steal your savings? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss mindful spending and scam recovery to help you stay in control of your fin…

1
Escape the Infinite Workday Trap (Plus: How to Grow $200/Month Into $300K) 34:45

18d ago34:45

34:45

Get tips to reclaim your time from the “infinite workday,” then learn how to build retirement savings as a stay-at-home parent. How do you reclaim your time in an always-on work culture? How can stay-at-home parents keep building retirement savings? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the rise of the “infinite workday” and answer a listen…

1
Summer Travel Deals: Where Prices Are Dropping and How to Book Luxury for Less 35:51

20d ago35:51

35:51

Score travel deals, discover hotel savings, and learn how to maximize your budget without missing out this summer. How can you travel this summer without overspending? Where should you book to get the most value from your hotel stay? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the state of summer travel and how shifting prices are impacting vacatio…

1
Your Housing Questions Answered: Down Payments, Mortgage Recasting, and Buying in Tough Markets 34:23

21d ago34:23

34:23

Explore strategies to strengthen your finances and get smart answers to common home buying and mortgage questions. When you're looking to buy your next home, should you pay off your current mortgage or save more for a down payment? How does mortgage recasting work? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola answer several questions from listeners about …

1
Are You Saving Enough in 2025? What the Data Says About Falling Short (Plus: Where to Keep Conservatorship Funds) 25:33

25d ago25:33

25:33

Learn whether you’re saving enough money in 2025. Then, learn where to keep conservatorship funds to safely earn interest. What is the average American saving in 2025? Where can you keep conservatorship funds to earn interest? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola tackle a listener’s question about how to grow savings when managing a conservatorshi…

1
Big Changes to a Top Travel Card — Is It Still Worth It or Is There a Better Fit for You? 32:57

27d ago32:57

32:57

Learn about major changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve — and how to decide if another premium card is a better fit. Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve still worth it after its major 2025 refresh? What do travelers lose — and gain — with the new credit card benefits? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French break down this week’s sweeping changes to the Chas…

1
Smart Planning Sessions: Digging Out of $36K in Debt — Without Derailing Retirement 35:47

29d ago35:47

35:47

In this month’s Smart Planning segment, a financial advisor discusses how to build a smarter debt payoff plan without sacrificing long-term financial goals. What’s the smartest way to make progress on credit card debt when budgeting alone isn’t cutting it? When can debt consolidation tools actually make your situation worse? Hosts Sean Pyles and El…

1
Will AI Take Your Job — or Just Your Time? Plus, Rebuilding Credit After Debt Consolidation 32:13

1M ago32:13

32:13

Learn how to use AI to boost your career and finances — plus, what to do when debt consolidation tanks your credit score. How can you use AI to stay competitive in your career and manage your money better? What should you do when debt consolidation tanks your credit score? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the rapid rise of generative A…

1
Making Group Travel Work: Planning Trips for Different Budgets, Ages, and Interests 33:07

1M ago33:07

33:07

How to plan a multi-generational trip without breaking the bank — or your relationships — and make it truly memorable. How do you plan a budget-friendly vacation for multiple generations of family? And how do you keep everyone — from toddlers to grandparents — happy without overspending or over-planning? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle explain …

1
How to Negotiate a Raise in a Tough Economy (w/ Brown Ambition’s Mandi Money) 37:57

1M ago37:57

37:57

Learn how to negotiate higher pay and choose between Roth vs. traditional retirement accounts with confidence. How can you negotiate for a raise in an uncertain economy? Should you invest in a Roth or traditional retirement account? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss career strategies and retirement planning to help you maximize your ear…

1
Economic Chaos and Car Costs: How to Weigh Risks in Uncertain Times 33:53

1M ago33:53

33:53

Learn how to keep calm and carry on with smart money moves and car buying plans amid tariffs, market swings, and rising prices. Should you buy a car now or wait — even if prices are expected to rise? How can you navigate the financial noise of today’s economy without losing your cool? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss coping with econom…

1
Is Epic Universe the Future of Theme Parks? Here’s How to Save When You Go 35:53

1M ago35:53

35:53

Learn what’s worth it (and what to skip) at Universal’s new theme park Epic Universe, with money-saving tips and sneak peeks of top rides. Is Epic Universe worth the higher ticket price compared to Universal’s other parks? How can you save money on theme park food, drinks, and add-ons without sacrificing fun? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French dis…

1
Recover from Vacation Overspending and Avoid Costly Rental Property Management Mistakes 38:36

1M ago38:36

38:36

Reset your vacation budget and learn about the real work it takes to manage a rental property as a new or aspiring landlord. How can you get back on budget after overspending on vacation? What should you know before turning a home into a rental property? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss navigating the financial aftermath of travel and …

1
What to Do When the U.S. Gets Downgraded and Your Travel Credit Card Stops Paying Off 28:22

2M ago28:22

28:22

Learn what a U.S. credit downgrade means for your portfolio, plus find out when it might be time to cancel your travel credit card. What does the U.S. credit rating downgrade mean for your investments? Should you cancel your travel credit card if the perks no longer justify the fee? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the U.S. government’…

1
How to Plan an Itinerary That Saves Money, Avoids Crowds, and Unlocks Hidden Gems 31:40

2M ago31:40

31:40

Learn how to plan travel itineraries that save you money, skip tourist traps, and make the most of your points. How can you plan a travel itinerary that saves money without missing out? What travel credit cards are worth it if you don’t want to pay an annual fee? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle talk about how to plan a smart, budget-conscious t…

1
Should You Keep Your Old Home? The Financial Case for Selling vs. Renting 23:29

2M ago23:29

23:29

Planning a big move? Learn how to decide whether you should sell or rent your home and fund your next down payment. Should you sell or rent out your home when you move? What’s the best way to fund a down payment from multiple accounts? Host Sean Pyles talks to NerdWallet writer Lisa Green about the big financial decisions that come with relocating …

1
How to Prepare for Stagflation and Make Your Insurance Work Harder 34:13

2M ago34:13

34:13

Learn what stagflation could mean for your finances and how to tell if you need life insurance. Do you still need life insurance if you’ve built enough wealth? What does stagflation mean for your financial plan? Hosts Elizabeth Ayoola and Sean Pyles discuss how to determine whether your life insurance coverage still fits your needs and what to watc…

1
Disney Done Right: When to Go, What to Skip, and How to Save at Disney Parks 28:57

2M ago28:57

28:57

Get the most out of your next Disney trip with tips for saving on tickets, spending less time in lines, and finding legitimate discounts. When is the cheapest time to go to Disney parks? How can you save money and avoid long lines once you're there? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle talk all things Disney, including when to go, how to find legit …

1
Smart Planning Sessions: Investing Through Uncertainty and Planning for Early Retirement Abroad 46:45

2M ago46:45

46:45

In this month’s Smart Planning segment, a financial advisor discusses when it might make sense to scale back your 401(k) contributions. Is it safe to invest right now? Should you keep contributing to your retirement account when the economy feels uncertain? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss how to navigate turbulent financial times by f…

1
Is 'Made in the USA' Still Worth It with Tariffs? Plus: Best Accounts for Your Home Repair Savings 26:08

2M ago26:08

26:08

When is buying “Made in the USA” worth it? Plus, learn where to stash savings for home repairs to maximize your returns.What does it mean when something is “Made in the USA”? Should you use a money market or high-yield savings account for home repairs? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss how to evaluate products labeled “Made in the USA” …

1
The Benefits of Award Search Tools and When They’re Worth Paying For 34:19

2M ago34:19

34:19

Learn how to use award search tools, when it’s worth it to pay for one, and how to use alerts and filters to save time and get better redemptions. What are the best tools to find award flight availability using points or miles? Is it worth paying for premium travel tools to simplify the booking process? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss t…

1
Start Feeling Better About Money Today and Learn How to Manage Finances After a Layoff 38:08

2M ago38:08

38:08

Learn how to navigate job loss and reshape your money mindset to feel more in control — emotionally and financially. What should you do with your money after losing a job? How can you feel better about money and stop stressing about finances? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss managing job loss and improving your relationship with money …

1
Are We in a Recession? What the Data Says—and How to Protect Your Finances 26:22

2M ago26:22

26:22

Learn what a shrinking GDP means for you. Plus: how to handle your HSA if your employer stops contributing. Is the U.S. in a recession? How do you roll over an HSA when your employer stops contributing? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the current state of the economy and how to manage your Health Savings Account (HSA) to help you prot…

1
Insider Strategies for First-Class Cruise Perks Without the Premium Price 33:28

2M ago33:28

33:28

Is a cruise actually cheaper than a land vacation? Learn how to sail smarter and save big on your next getaway. Are cruises really a budget-friendly alternative to land vacations? What’s the best credit card to use for travel and Costco expenses? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss cruise travel, pricing strategies, and credit card hacks to…

1
Spend Smarter This Wedding Season: Travel, Tipping, and More, (featuring The Knot) 36:25

2M ago36:25

36:25

Learn smart ways to budget for your wedding and how to navigate tipping expectations without overspending. What money lessons did you learn from your mom? How can you budget for a wedding without overspending — especially when your family is helping with costs? Sean and Elizabeth discuss the financial values we inherit and the realities of modern w…

1
How to Keep Your Credit Strong During Economic Shifts and Know If You’re Ready to Buy a Home 32:31

2M ago32:31

32:31

Learn what rising delinquencies mean for your finances, plus how to decide if you're truly ready to buy your first home. What happens if you fall behind on your loan or credit card payments? How much do you actually need to buy a house? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss rising debt delinquencies and first-time homebuying realities to he…

1
Where 100,000 Points Can Take You: First Class Seats, Five-Star Suites and VIP Upgrades 31:11

3M ago31:11

31:11

Explore your options for spending 100,000 credit card points, with tips on redemptions for luxury flights, hotels, and hidden travel perks. What are the best ways to use 100,000 credit card points for travel? How do you transfer points to airlines or hotels to get the most value? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss top redemptions across Ch…

1
Smart Planning Sessions: When is it OK to Stop Saving? (Plus: Spring Cleaning Your Finances) 38:11

3M ago38:11

38:11

In a new Smart Planning segment, a finance expert tackles retirement goals and savings questions with a listener. How can you gift savings bonds? When is it time to stop saving for retirement early? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola offer tips for “spring cleaning” your finances, including refreshing your budget, resetting your financial goals,…

1
Less Spending Power, More Debt? Navigate a Declining Dollar and Make Progress on Credit Card Bills 27:51

3M ago27:51

27:51

Learn how a weakening U.S. dollar affects your wallet and how you can escape the cycle of never-ending credit card debt. Why is the U.S. dollar losing value and how does that affect day-to-day spending? How can you make progress on credit card debt that feels impossible to tackle? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the value of the U.S. …

1
When and How to Transfer Credit Card Rewards Points To Get The Most Value 31:05

3M ago31:05

31:05

Learn when it’s worth transferring credit card points — and how to avoid costly mistakes that waste your rewards. When should you transfer your credit card points to an airline or hotel loyalty program? What are your options if you no longer want to pay the annual fee on a travel card you’ve held for years? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discu…

1
Michele Norris Shares Kitchen Must-Haves and the Nerds Break Down Switching Banks for Better Rates 36:12

3M ago36:12

36:12

Find out when it’s worth splurging on kitchen gear and how to switch banks without losing your financial footing. What kitchen tools are actually worth the money? Is switching to an online bank really worth the hassle? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the value of investing in high-quality kitchen gear and what to consider when moving …

1
Strategies for Navigating Market Swings and Leveraging Home Equity Wisely 33:55

3M ago33:55

33:55

Learn how to stay calm during market volatility and whether a HELOC or cash-out refi makes sense for your home reno goals. What should you do with your investments when the stock market is particularly volatile? What’s the difference between a HELOC and a cash-out refinance? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss coping with market volatilit…

1
Room Blocks, Rental Cars, and a Plus-One: Smarter Wedding Travel for Savvy Guests 26:13

3M ago26:13

26:13

Learn strategic ways to save on wedding travel — whether you're planning the big day or flying in to celebrate someone else's. How can you avoid overspending on wedding travel without sacrificing comfort or memorable experiences? How do you continue earning meaningful travel rewards after you've maxed out your credit card welcome bonuses? Host Megh…

1
How To Have a Better Relationship With Money and Maximize Every Dollar 37:33

3M ago37:33

37:33

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 t…

1
Car Prices, Tariffs, and Trade-Offs: What to Know Before You Buy or Move Out 37:09

3M ago37:09

37:09

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 externa…

1
The New Rules of Travel Rewards: Spend More or Lose Out 33:26

3M ago33:26

33:26

Learn why flight delays are getting worse and what airline miles are really worth (hint: it’s not what you think). Why are flight cancellations and delays happening more often? Are airline miles and credit card travel rewards actually worth it? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the latest trends in travel spending and how the airline indu…

1
Last-Minute Tax Questions Answered and Tips for Keeping Your Financial Documents Safe 29:11

3M ago29:11

29:11

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 li…

1
401(k) vs. Brokerage Account: Which Is Better for Retirement Savings? Plus, the National Debt Explained 21:36

3M ago21:36

21:36

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 E…

1
How to Plan Smarter and Save More on Summer Travel 29:30

3M ago29:30

29:30

Learn how to get the most out of your summer travel including when to book your flights and how to stack rewards. When is the cheapest time to book flights for summer travel? How can you stack rewards points to level up your trips? Meghan Coyle and Sally French take a deep dive into the strategies you can use to optimize your travel budget this sum…

1
How to Build Wealth Right Now and How Couples Can Align on Financial Goals 37:27

4M ago37:27

37:27

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 ab…

1
How to Get Ready for a Recession and Choose Enough Car Insurance 34:39

4M ago34:39

34:39

Learn how to prepare for a possible recession and make sure your car insurance coverage is enough to protect your finances. What should you do to get ready for a recession? How much car insurance coverage do you really need? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss recession risks and car insurance basics to help you understand how to protect …

1
Secrets to Finding Cheap Flights and Avoiding Fees, Straight from Scott’s Cheap Flights 37:34

4M ago37:34

37:34

Learn when to book flights, how to spot mistake fares, and ways to use lesser-known tips like booking stopovers and tapping into rideshare rewards. When is the best time to book a cheap flight? Do budget airlines actually save you money after all the fees? Scott Keyes, founder of Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), joins Smart Travel to talk ab…

1
From Broker to Budget: How to Buy or Sell a Home in 2025 39:04

4M ago39:04

39:04

Learn how to budget for a mortgage, compare lenders, and prep for home buying or selling in today’s changing housing market. How can you shop smart for a mortgage and pick the right broker or lender? How do you budget for a home purchase? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss mortgage shopping and home affordability to help you understand h…

1
Managing the Job Market and Your Parents’ Finances: Tips for the Sandwich Generation 31:03

4M ago31:03

31:03

Learn how to juggle finances for aging parents and kids, plus what the latest labor market data means for your wallet. How do you navigate the financial challenges of caring for aging parents while raising kids? How should the job market impact your financial decisions? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola break down the realities of the sandwich …