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PODCAST · business

Money Girl

by QuickAndDirtyTips.com

Laura Adams provides short and friendly personal finance, small business, real estate, and investing tips to help you live a richer life. Whether you're just starting out or are already a savvy investor, Money Girl's advice will point you in the right direction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episodes

  1. How do I find and hire the right financial advisor? (Reissue)

    952. Not sure whether you need a financial advisor, or which kind to look for? Laura Adams explains the seven types of financial professionals: bankers, insurance agents, tax accountants, estate attorneys, stockbrokers, registered investment advisors (RIAs), and certified financial planners…

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  2. Bonds are back–should I own more of them?

    1058. With 10-year U.S. Treasury yields above 5.3%, many investors are asking if they should ditch stocks and play it safe with fixed income. Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s question about investing when retirement is ten years away. You’ll learn the basics of bonds and how to use a...

  3. Flight canceled? Know your air passenger rights

    1057. Few things are more frustrating than learning your flight has been canceled. But do you know what you’re legally entitled to when an airline grounds your plane? Host Laura Adams breaks down your rights as an air traveler and explains how to protect your wallet when flights get disrupted.…

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  4. How to buy a home when you already own one

    1056. Should you buy your next home before selling your current one, or is it safer to sell first? How does an existing mortgage impact your ability to qualify for a new loan, and where should your down payment actually come from? Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s questions about navigating…

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  5. How to accelerate your wealth, with Natasha Madan

    1055. Host Laura Adams interviews Natasha Madan, CMO and consumer advocate at Credit Karma, about the financial habits of Gen Z, credit myths, and wise ways to use AI tools. You’ll learn practical strategies to optimize your credit, get the best interest rates, and build wealth faster. Key...

  6. 4 safe strategies for a mid-career pivot

    1054. Are you comfortable in your career but longing for change? Or maybe you want the freedom to move anywhere in the country without taking a financial step backward? Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s question about safe ways to pivot to a new career with a high earning potential and...

  7. 7 ways to build wealth before December 31

    1053. Host Laura Adams walks you through seven ways to lower your taxes, maximize savings, and protect your hard-earned cash before midnight on December 31. Don’t let holiday chaos cause you to miss this critical deadline. Key Takeaways Employer-sponsored retirement plans like 401(k)s, 403(b)s…

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  8. How to save for a child’s future home

    1052. Thinking about helping your kids buy a home decades from now? Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s question about the best ways to grow savings. You’ll learn how inflation impacts long-term savings and which growth-oriented accounts offer the best return for long-term goals. Key Takeaways:...

  9. 529 savings vs. prepaid plans–benefits, rules, and strategies

    1051. Are you worried about the rising cost of college? In celebration of College Savings Month, Laura compares the two main types of education accounts: 529 savings plans and 529 prepaid tuition plans. You’ll learn their key differences and how to choose the right plan. Key Takeaways Both 529...

  10. Buying a car? 6 steps to avoid costly mistakes

    1050. Buying a car can feel like a financial landmine. Host Laura Adams answers a listener’s question about buying a car before starting his first job. You’ll learn how to evaluate your current car, set a budget, secure financing, and find a great deal that doesn’t wreck your financial goals! Key...

  11. 5 small habits that build big wealth

    1049. Think building wealth requires a six-figure salary? Think again. Host Laura Adams breaks down five small, high-impact habits that lead to serious long-term wealth, regardless of your current income. You’ll learn how to turn quiet daily routines into big financial freedom! Key Takeaways…

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  12. Inherited money? Ways to share wealth without paying extra taxes

    1048. Receiving an inheritance can be a life-changing financial event, but passing a portion of those funds along to family members comes with a unique set of tax rules. Host Laura Adams breaks down the federal tax consequences of sharing an inheritance. You’ll learn how inherited assets are…

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  13. Medicare 101: How to avoid pricey mistakes and choose the right plan

    1047. Host Laura Adams cuts through the confusion and explains the basics of Medicare for anyone approaching 65 or helping a relative compare options. You’ll learn how parts of Medicare work, which expenses Medicare doesn’t cover, how to fill insurance gaps, avoid lifetime penalties, and the…

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  14. Roth IRA vs. Trump Account: Which is better for kids?

    1046. Did your teenager earn money from a summer or part-time job? Laura answers a listener’s question about two tax-advantaged savings accounts for minors: the Roth IRA and the new Trump Account. You’ll learn how both accounts work and where working teens or their parents should put their...

  15. Workplace Roth vs. Roth IRA–what’s the difference?

    1045. Are you taking full advantage of tax-free retirement growth? While both workplace Roth plans and Roth IRAs offer tax-free growth, they come with vastly different eligibility limits, withdrawal rules, and investment options. Laura breaks down the key Roth differences so you can decide which...

  16. Smart ways to pay less on rising healthcare cost

    1044. Are rising healthcare costs ruining your budget? Laura answers a listener’s question about how to maximize every tax advantage available for healthcare costs. You’ll learn the rules for deducting them on your tax return or paying them with tax-advantaged savings accounts like HSAs and FSAs....

  17. A beginner’s guide to travel hacking using rewards

    1043. Dreaming of your next getaway, but need to do it on a budget? Laura demystifies the world of “travel hacking” for complete beginners. You’ll learn how to leverage everyday spending to earn valuable reward points, maximize their redemption value for free travel, and strategically use credit...

  18. 8 money rules for happy couples

    On a road trip, tackling a summer cleanup, or just catching up on podcasts? QDT has you covered with Summer Saturday encores from your favorite shows. See the full Summer Saturday lineup on Spotify and enjoy this episode, which first aired in November, 2024. Laura reviews money rules for couples...

  19. Should my first home be an investment property? (Reissue)

    941. Should you buy a rental property before your first home? Laura answers a listener's question about the pros and cons of 'house hacking' as an investment strategy — including how much you really need to save, what lenders require for investment properties, and whether becoming a landlord…

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  20. Take control of your money, with Intuit’s Mark Notarainni

    1042. Laura Adams interviews Mark Notarainni, an 18-year veteran at Intuit, to explore how integrated platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing personal finance. Find out how combining tax data, credit histories, and everyday spending can help you take control of your…

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  21. 8 ways to spend money for a happier life

    On a road trip, tackling a summer cleanup, or just catching up on podcasts? QDT has you covered with Summer Saturday encores from your favorite shows. See the full Summer Saturday lineup on Spotify and enjoy this episode, which first aired in July 2025. Laura provides tips for using money as a…

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  22. Should I pay off a low-rate mortgage or invest?

    1041. If you have extra cash, should you pay off a low-interest mortgage or invest it? Laura answers a listener’s question about balancing financial math with the emotional peace of mind that comes from being mortgage-free. Key Takeaways: Paying off a debt yields a guaranteed return equal to your...

  23. Canceling credit cards–smart move or credit mistake?

    1040. Laura explains the hidden risks of canceling credit card accounts. You’ll learn how credit utilization works, when closing an account is and isn’t worth it, and how to protect your credit if you do decide to close a credit card. Key takeaways: Closing a credit card shrinks your available...

  24. A 7-point mid-year checklist for money success

    On a road trip, tackling a summer cleanup, or just catching up on podcasts? QDT has you covered with Summer Saturday encores from your favorite shows. See the full Summer Saturday lineup on Spotify and enjoy this episode, which first aired in July 2024. Take stock of your finances with Laura’s...

  25. Should I consolidate old retirement plans?

    1039. Laura answers a listener’s question about managing multiple 401(k)s with her current and previous employers. Find out the pros and cons of holding old retirement plans, how to streamline your strategy, and simultaneously reach other financial goals, like homeownership. Key takeaways...

  26. 9 things to know about buying your first home

    1038. Are you thinking about buying your first home but feeling overwhelmed by interest rates, upfront costs, and hiring a real estate agent? Host Laura Adams walks you through 9 tips every first-time homebuyer must know to protect their finances and land the right deal. Key Takeaways: How subtle...

  27. 5 ways to help your kids become rich

    On a road trip, tackling a summer cleanup, or just catching up on podcasts? QDT has you covered with Summer Saturday encores from your favorite shows. See the full Summer Saturday lineup on Spotify and enjoy this episode, which first aired in June 2022. Find out five ways to save and invest for...

  28. 8 things to know about investing in a brokerage account (Reissue)

    795. Laura answers a listener question about how to invest in a brokerage account, including the rules you need to know and the best strategy for diversification. Discover more from Money Girl! Facebook Newsletter Transcripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com. Email: [email protected] or…

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  29. The wedding series: navigating love, risk, and money, with James Sexton

    1037. What actually happens legally and financially when you say "I do"? Laura Adams interviews veteran New York City divorce trial lawyer Jim Sexton about the often misunderstood world of matrimonial law. Whether you are happily single, engaged, or decades into a marriage, Jim’s advice will...

  30. Dealing with debt: expert tips for using a balance transfer credit card

    Summer Saturdays: Best of QDT Encore Episode: This episode originally aired in June 2022. 733. Ever wonder if using a balance transfer credit card could help you get out of debt faster? Laura interviews Mary Gameng, MBA and Credit Card Specialist with Citizens, and answers a listener question.…

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  31. Will Social Security be there for you?

    1036. Is Social Security in trouble, or is it just a lot of political noise? Laura answers a listener’s question about what the changes to the retirement fund mean for your financial future. You’ll learn the new tax caps that employees and the self-employed must pay and how to protect your...

  32. The wedding series: plan your big day on an hourly budget

    1035. Host Laura Adams sits down with Plannie founder Annie Lee to expose the most common financial pitfalls couples make. Annie breaks down the "macro approach" to wedding design, explaining how to test-drive a planner and focus your budget for a luxury feel at a fraction of the cost. Key...

  33. How to guide Gen Z to financial success

    1034. Watching the young adults in your life navigate their first "real" job is an exciting milestone—but it can also be stressful if you notice them carrying credit card debt or skipping out on savings. Laura answers a heartfelt question on this topic with five non-judgmental strategies to guide…

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  34. The wedding series: How to avoid money mistakes in marriage

    1033. Host Laura Adams sits down with family law attorney Cari Rincker to unpack the crucial intersection of love, law, and your wallet. Cari reveals why every couple already has a prenuptial agreement (whether they signed one or not) and discusses legal differences between states for divorce....

  35. Traditional vs. Roth 401(k) – Best strategy for side hustlers

    1032. Do you have extra side hustle income that’s pushing you into a higher tax bracket? In this episode, Laura answers a listener’s question about whether new self-employment earnings mean it's time to switch from a Roth to a traditional 401(k) or IRA. You’ll learn how to use retirement...

  36. The wedding series: business and budget behind the big day

    1031. Are you curious about hiring a wedding or event planner? Amanda Savory from Amanda Savory Events (ASE), a premier agency in New York City, joins Laura to discuss tips for working with a planner, ways to cut costs, and how to have an unforgettable wedding day. Find Amanda Savory on Instagram...

  37. SAVE plan is gone: What student loan borrowers must do before July 1

    1030. If you have federal student loans or plan to use them to finance higher education, you must understand significant upcoming changes to the program. Find out the benefits and downsides of new legislation and how it could affect your finances if you’re a current or future student loan…

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  38. 5 summer travel hacks that really save money

    1029. Does the cost of a summer vacation mean you have to stay home this year? Rising prices for travel, gas, food, and lodging can make a family getaway feel out of reach. But with the right strategies, you can enjoy a memorable summer trip without overspending or going into debt. In this…

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  39. Good debt vs bad debt: Your plan for paying off debt faster

    Do you know the difference between good and bad debt? Laura explains why it's a critical concept for saving money, building wealth, and creating more financial security. Plus, she covers a simple 7-step plan for paying off debt fast. Encore Episode: This episode originally aired on Wednesday…

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  40. Should I invest a lump sum or equally throughout the year?

    1028. Laura answers a listener’s question about investing a lump sum or using a dollar-cost averaging (DCA) strategy. Find out what DCA is and its pros and cons whether you have a little or a lot to invest. Key takeaways Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) is a simple strategy where you invest a…

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  41. 7 steps to recession-proof your finances (Reissue)

    749. If you’re worried about a recession or just want to strengthen your finances, Laura covers seven steps to take now to ease the impact of a future hardship. Encore episode: This episode originally aired in November 2022. Discover more from Money Girl! Facebook Newsletter Transcripts available...

  42. 8 Micro money habits for guaranteed success

    Think you need to make monumental changes to achieve your financial goals? Think again. Money Girl has 8 micro money habits to help you take control of your finances, feel secure, and reach any realistic financial goal you desire. Encore Episode: This episode originally aired in June of 2022.…

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  43. 7 money rules for new graduates

    1027. New graduates can create financial freedom by consistently following a few fundamental money rules. Laura reviews seven tips that can set young adults up for a lifetime of financial success. Expert advice for navigating life after graduation — for new grads and the people cheering them on....

  44. Travel smarter–Inside travel insurance with World Nomads

    1026. Travel insurance expert, Christina Tunnah of World Nomads, breaks down the benefits of coverage and costly mistakes travelers should avoid. From medical emergencies abroad to unexpected trip interruptions, get insider tips on how to travel and explore the world with less risk and financial...

  45. How to reduce or avoid tax when selling a home

    1025. If you’re considering selling a home, you may wonder how it will affect your taxes. Laura answers a listener’s question on this topic and explains how to use a legit, massive tax exclusion that allows many homeowners to skip home sale taxes altogether. Key takeaways Selling an asset, such…

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  46. 4 ways to fund an early retirement penalty-free

    1024. Are you ready to quit working or to begin a financially independent lifestyle? Laura covers four ways to access your retirement funds without paying a hefty 10% early withdrawal penalty before 59.5. Key takeaways Using a tax-advantaged retirement account has many benefits, but one downside…

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  47. 10 Ways a 529 plan makes education more affordable

    1023. Are you worried about the future cost of education for yourself or a child? Laura reviews ten ways a 529 savings plan supercharges education savings and can even be used for young students, non-traditional coursework, and professional career pivots. Key takeaways Contributions to a 529 plan...

  48. 6 Money moves to make before a potential rate hike

    1022. If you were expecting interest rates to drop, rising inflation is making it more likely for them to go up this year. Laura reviews six moves you shouldn’t overlook in a rising-rate environment to make your money work harder for you. Key takeaways When inflation rises, the Fed raises…

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  49. Which mortgage is right for you?

    1021. Looking for a mortgage but are unsure what’s best for you? Laura answers a question from a listener who’s ready to buy a home but is overwhelmed by mortgage choices. Find out whether a fixed- or adjustable-rate loan, with or without mortgage points, is right for you. Key Takeaways…

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  50. Do’s and don’ts of using chatbots and AI money tools

    1020. Using an AI tool or chatbot to improve your finances can be wise, depending on what you tell it. Laura reviews what you can safely ask a bot and what you should never enter in an AI tool. You’ll learn ten powerful AI prompts you can use to find hidden savings, negotiate your bills, and…

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Laura Adams provides short and friendly personal finance, small business, real estate, and investing tips to help you live a richer life. Whether you're just starting out or are already a savvy investor, Money Girl's advice will point you in the right direction.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HOSTED BY

QuickAndDirtyTips.com

Produced by Macmillan Holdings, LLC

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Money Girl have?

Money Girl currently has 1000 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Money Girl about?

Laura Adams provides short and friendly personal finance, small business, real estate, and investing tips to help you live a richer life. Whether you're just starting out or are already a savvy investor, Money Girl's advice will point you in the right direction. Hosted on Acast. See...

How often does Money Girl release new episodes?

Money Girl releases new episodes frequently with a large back catalog of 1000 episodes. Check the episode list for recent publication dates.

Where can I listen to Money Girl?

You can listen to Money Girl on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Money Girl?

Money Girl is created and hosted by QuickAndDirtyTips.com.
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