This episode of Money and Change delivers a critical look at the "crazy week" of economic shifts, focusing on immediate threats to your wallet and long-term financial stability. Topics covered include the looming Memorial Day gas price record, with practical ways to save at the pump using apps and store rewards. We dive into the rising $39 trillion national debt and the Federal Reserve's handling of inflation, warning listeners to keep cash on hand to prepare for a potential banking holiday. The show also explores the disruptive impact of the AI and data center build-out, discussing how they drive up electrical and water costs while making new homes unaffordable for most Americans. Finally, get essential guidance on financial preparedness, including setting up an emergency fund, implementing a budgeting strategy (like the 50/30/20 rule), and completing your prepper kit with necessities like long-term food, water storage, and GMRS radios for emergency communication.

Disclaimer: Nothing in this show should be considered legal, medical, financial, or investment advice. Always do your own research and due diligence.

The Super Bowl of Flowers, $6 Gas, and the Coming Housing Crash: Navigating 2026's Economic Headwinds

Stu Shear explores the critical financial and economic trends hitting consumers, starting with the staggering cost of Mother's Day, featuring an interview with Minakshi Lala of Urban Stems on how rising fuel costs and tariffs are impacting the floral industry.

Key topics covered in this episode include:

• Inflation & Cost of Living: An analysis of soaring U.S. gas prices, which have hit the highest levels since 2022, and the global trade warnings from Maersk about bottlenecks in the Strait of Hormuz. Stu links rising gas and diesel costs to higher consumer prices, noting the closure of a 141-year-old candy company due to escalating raw material and labor expenses.
• Housing and Debt: A deep dive into the fear of a housing market crash, with prices up over 50% in some areas, forcing younger generations to plan for a future without homeownership. The conversation also covers the growing U.S. national debt, which is climbing past $39 trillion, and the possibility of shifting away from the petrodollar to a gold-backed currency.
• Changing Consumer Behavior: Discussion of the new term "dateflation," as 40% of singles are cutting back on dating due to high expenses. Stu also looks at the restaurant business, examining Burger King's revamp efforts and how more Americans are skipping dining out in favor of cheaper alternatives like Costco and Sam's Club.

Financial Preparedness: Practical advice on how to cut back on gas costs, pay down debt, build an emergency fund, and conserve funds to prepare for potential economic difficulties in late 2026.

The cost of living continues its upward climb! This week on Money and Change, we tackle the massive surge in gas and diesel prices across the country and connect it to broader economic issues, including the spiraling $39 trillion national debt. We dive deep into practical strategies for taking control of your financial future by reviewing the essential rules for a household budget (50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings/debt) and offering simple methods for building your first $1,000 emergency fund—and why keeping a secure cash stash at home is critical.

Plus, we provide a full, vital checklist for financial and emergency preparedness. Learn exactly what you need to be prepped: from stocking long-term food and water (three gallons per person per day), to securing blue tarps for your roof, and investing in high-quality GMRS radios for essential communication when the grid goes down. Finally, we touch on current investment topics like the residential real estate market, commercial property cap rates, and using precious metals (gold and silver) as a hedge against calamity.