Best NerdWallet Travel Podcasts (2025)

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

19d 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
Smart Planning Sessions: Digging Out of $36K in Debt — Without Derailing Retirement 35:47

16h 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

5d 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 30:22

6d ago30:22

30:22

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

8d 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

12d 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

13d 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

15d 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
How to Plan an Itinerary That Saves Money, Avoids Crowds, and Unlocks Hidden Gems 31:40

20d 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

22d 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

26d 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

27d 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

29d 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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 …

1
How to Visit National Parks for Free, Avoid Crowds, and Save on Lodging 35:52

3M ago35:52

35:52

Learn how to visit national parks on a budget, including tips on free entry days and cheap lodging. Plus, the latest key travel rewards updates. When can you visit national parks for free, and what are the best ways to cut costs on park trips? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French break down national park budget tips to help you plan an affordable ad…

1
How to Budget for Trips: When to Book and How to Avoid Hidden Fees 31:48

3M ago31:48

31:48

Learn how to budget for travel, save on flights, and maximize credit card rewards for your next trip. How can you budget and save money for travel? How can you maximize credit card rewards and travel points to help lower trip costs? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss budgeting strategies and travel rewards to help you plan smarter for your…

1
What to do When Groceries Cost More and Retirement Feels Out of Reach 33:53

3M ago33:53

33:53

Learn why tariffs are driving up prices and how you can still save money. Plus, how to catch up on retirement savings if you started late. How will new tariffs impact your grocery bill and big-ticket purchases? Is early retirement an option if you’re behind on retirement savings? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss rising costs due to tar…

1
Best Travel Credit Cards, Southwest Policy Changes, and Disneyland Deals 31:43

3M ago31:43

31:43

Learn which travel credit cards might be best for you, plus news about major policy changes at Southwest. Which travel credit card is the best travel credit card? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French try to answer that question by picking their favorites, fantasy sports draft style. But first, they discuss the latest travel news, including Southwest…

1
Can AI Really Manage Your Money? Plus: The Truth About Roth Conversions 25:47

3M ago25:47

25:47

Learn how AI can help you budget, invest, and build financial knowledge. Then, get expert insights on Roth conversions. How can AI help you manage your money? What do you need to know about Roth conversions? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the rise of AI-powered financial tools and break down the pros and cons of using AI for budgetin…

1
How Tariffs Could Impact Your Retirement and What to Know for 2025 Taxes 24:57

3M ago24:57

24:57

Learn how to respond to market volatility, the risks of private credit investing, and key tax updates for 2025. Should you adjust your 401(k) amid uncertain market conditions? How do you decide between the standard deduction and itemizing on your taxes? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss stock market volatility and tax season essentials …

1
How to Get Elite Travel Perks Without Traveling Every Week or Overpaying 29:23

3M ago29:23

29:23

Learn when elite status is worth it, plus how to earn attractive airline and hotel perks even if you don’t constantly travel. Is elite status ever worth chasing? Should you stick to one airline or just try to book the best deal? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle break down whether airline and hotel elite status is worth it, and how you can earn v…

1
How to Get Your Finances Ready for a Crisis and Tackle Debt Smarter 34:52

4M ago34:52

34:52

Learn how to prepare financially for uncertain times and balance debt payoff with saving for emergencies and retirement. How much emergency cash should you keep on hand? Should you focus on paying off debt or saving for retirement first? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss financial preparedness and debt payoff strategies to help you feel…

1
Egg Prices, Greenwashing, and Smarter Ways to Invest 32:54

4M ago32:54

32:54

Learn what’s causing egg prices to rise so dramatically, then explore ethical investing and how to manage savings wisely. Are ESG investments really as ethical as they claim to be? What’s the smartest way to put extra savings to work? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss ethical investing and savings strategies to help you make informed fi…

1
How to Budget for Trips: When to Book and How to Avoid Hidden Fees 30:58

4M ago30:58

30:58

Learn how to budget for travel, save on flights, and maximize credit card rewards for your next trip. How can you budget and save money for travel? How can you maximize credit card rewards and travel points to help lower trip costs? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss budgeting strategies and travel rewards to help you plan smarter for your…

1
Behavioral Finance Mistakes That Hurt Your Portfolio and What “Good” Returns Look Like 29:05

4M ago29:05

29:05

Learn how behavioral biases impact your investments and what a “good” return from your portfolio looks like. How do behavioral biases affect your investing decisions? What kind of returns should you expect from your investments? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss common psychological traps investors fall into and how to set realistic exp…

1
Welcome to NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast 1:29

4M ago1:29

1:29

Hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola are here to answer your biggest financial questions and help you take control of your money. On NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast, our trusted finance experts break down real-world money challenges, giving you clear, actionable strategies to build wealth and reach your financial goals. Each episode cuts t…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

NerdWallet Travel Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide