Episodes

  • Savings strategies that actually work

    Savings strategies that actually work
    Jul 27 2026
    You know you want to save for that vacation, those new tires and more generally, the future. But what savings approach actually works? Certified financial planner Tania P. Brown recommends trying savings buckets. By creating separate categories — or buckets — for your savings, you can prioritize your goals, plan ahead and set rules for when you'll tap into each fund. In this episode, Brown shares tips on building sinking funds and emergency funds, as well as other types of savings accounts, so you can stay motivated and on track with your financial goals.

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    22 mins
  • Summer fun that doesn't break the budget

    Summer fun that doesn't break the budget
    Jul 14 2026
    Wondering how to have fun this summer without spending a fortune? All you need is a little creativity. Go on a "penny date." Throw a movie marathon party. Swap houses with a friend. With a little imagination, you can bring delight and joy — at a low cost — to your sunny days ahead. This episode originally aired Aug. 1, 2023.

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    12 mins
  • A financial planner's advice for spending without guilt

    A financial planner's advice for spending without guilt
    Jul 13 2026
    Whether you're feeling guilty about overspending or guilty about not spending enough, shame around money can get in the way of your goals. In this episode, Marielle Segarra talks with certified financial planner Lauryn Williams about how to address financial guilt and align your spending with your values.

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    23 mins
  • How to save at restaurants if you're burnt out on cooking

    How to save at restaurants if you're burnt out on cooking
    Jun 30 2026
    Do you blow $20 on slop bowls because you keep forgetting to pack lunch? Or can't help but overspend every time you eat out with friends? Dining out can be expensive — but there are ways to minimize the financial punch. This episode, reporter Joe Hernandez shares tips on how to dine out on a budget. Sign up for his one-month newsletter, How to Cut Your Food Bill, for more tips.

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    18 mins
  • Gold is having a moment. Is now the time to invest?

    Gold is having a moment. Is now the time to invest?
    May 28 2026
    In the world of investing, gold is having a moment. Last year, the price of gold crossed $4,000 an ounce for the first time ever. But does that mean it's time to rebalance your portfolio and get in on the precious metal action? This episode, NPR finance correspondent Maria Aspan explains why the world has been so obsessed with gold lately, how you can invest and whether doing so makes sense in the long-term.

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    15 mins
  • Unsure which retirement account to choose? We have some tips

    Unsure which retirement account to choose? We have some tips
    May 7 2026
    Retirement accounts are not just a vehicle to let your money grow over time for when you're ready to stop working. They're also a tax shelter. In this episode, we talk about how much you can expect to save in taxes, the difference between pre-tax and post-tax accounts, and how to decide which to prioritize. Spoiler: when in doubt, just pick one and get started.

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    11 mins
  • Shop less and save more with a 'no-buy challenge'

    Shop less and save more with a 'no-buy challenge'
    Apr 30 2026
    If you're struggling to save for long-term goals, find yourself lost in a sea of clutter or are concerned about consumerism and climate change, there are ways to curb your shopping habits. This episode, journalist Stacey Vanek Smith talks to writers, influencers and activists in the sustainable fashion industry about how to reign in overconsumption, rethink our power as consumers and challenge ourselves to buy less. This episode originally published Aug. 20, 2024.

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    21 mins
  • Do you have a financial self-care routine?

    Do you have a financial self-care routine?
    Apr 23 2026
    There are things we're supposed to do routinely for our health: brush our teeth, shower and exercise. There's a version of that for financial health too. We'll talk about those tasks — and go beyond the number-crunching to explore how our mental health affects our finances. This episode originally published Aug. 15, 2023.

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    16 mins