PennyWise: Personal Finance & Travel Tips Lee Enterprises Podcasts

In this episode of PennyWise, host Nat Cardona takes off with NerdWallet's travel expert Sally French to explore the surprising trend of dropping airfares in 2024. Despite the inflation affecting almost every corner of the economy, travelers are seeing a welcome decrease in ticket prices, especially for international flights. From a nearly 12% drop for South America-bound flights to a 7.5% dip for Asia, the reasons behind these savings are just as intriguing as the destinations themselves.

Tune in as Sally explains how increased competition, new routes, and the resurgence of budget airlines contribute to these cost cuts. Learn why now might be the ideal time to embark on an international adventure and how strategic booking can maximize your savings. But it's not all clear skies – the episode also touches on the rise in baggage fees, a balancing act airlines are performing to keep base fares low. Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time flyer, this episode is your boarding pass to understanding the current air travel landscape and how to navigate it penny-wise.

Remember, while airfares may be falling, don't wait to book your flight – planning ahead is key to keeping your travel budget grounded. So fasten your seatbelt and get ready for takeoff with PennyWise, where we help you fly smart without breaking the bank.

 

Episode References:

Nerdwallet | https://www.nerdwallet.com/

Delta Airlines | https://www.delta.com/

Norse Atlantic Airways | https://flynorse.com/

American Airlines | https://www.aa.com/

Episode summary created by https://headliner.app

 

In a world where the cost of living is constantly on the rise, millennials are facing a unique financial dilemma: to have or not to have children.

This week on PennyWise, Nat Cardona is joined by NerdWallet's personal finance writer Kim Palmer to unpack the economic factors influencing family planning decisions. With childcare expenses skyrocketing and the median household income struggling to keep pace, many are choosing to delay or forego parenthood altogether.

Tune in as we delve into the NerdWallet survey's findings, explore the cost of raising a child today, and discuss the creative ways parents are navigating this financial frontier. Whether you're considering starting a family or looking for ways to manage the costs, this episode offers insights that hit close to home. Don't miss this candid conversation on the financial realities shaping a generation's approach to family life.

"It is so expensive now to have children, to pay for their childcare, to pay for all of their other costs, that people are actually deciding not to have kids." -  Kim Palmer

 

 

Episode summary created by https://headliner.app

Credit card late fees can be the bane of any budget, but a new rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau might just be the relief many users need.

In this episode of PennyWise, host Nat Cardona delves into the details with NerdWallet's credit card expert Sara Rathner. They break down the significant drop from $32 to $8 in maximum late fees and what this means for your wallet.

Discover the implications for your financial health, the rationale behind this substantial reduction, and the anticipated timeline for its implementation. Plus, get expert tips on how to avoid late payments altogether and protect your credit score. 

"Don't ruin the hard work that you've put in to raising your credit score over a long period of time in a flash, just by missing a payment. Really focus on ways you can meet those deadlines."

Episode References

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau | https://www.consumerfinance.gov/

Nerdwallet |  https://www.nerdwallet.com/

Card Act of 2009 | https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/house-bill/627

Federal Reserve | https://www.federalreserve.gov/

Episode summary created by https://headliner.app

Pet owners know that their cuddly companions can rack up quite the bill, especially when accidents happen. Join us on Pennywise as Nat Cardona chats with Kim Palmer from Nerdwallet about the financial cushion pet insurance can provide. They discuss the potential benefits and pitfalls, including how pre-existing conditions and age affect coverage. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering pet insurance for their beloved animal.

Episode summary created by https://headliner.app

Are you feeling the crunch of the current housing market? Dive into the illuminating insights of the 2024 Homebuyer Report with NerdWallet's senior writer Elizabeth Renter on the latest episode of Pennywise. Discover why 77% of Americans couldn't secure a home last year, the unique challenges facing first-time buyers, and whether renting might just be the smarter choice in today's economy. Join host Nat Cardona for a candid conversation that could redefine your idea of the American Dream.

Episode summary created by https://headliner.app

📋 Episode Chapters

(00:00) Lee Enterprises podcast features latest M 2024 Homebuyer Report

(01:34) 77% of Americans who began last year with intention to buy a home were unsuccessful

(03:56) Supply was already hurting pre COVID, right

(04:25) The rate of people planning to buy is higher among younger generations

(05:30) A lot of people view the down payment as holding them back from buying homes

(08:04) Some people may go from buying a house to renting, according to survey

Big fans of Costco will tell you that good buys justify the cost of membership. However, Costco knows what it's doing.  Host Nat Cardona is joined by Kim Palmer, a personal finance writer with NerdWallet, who points us down the right aisles.