Last updated Jun. 19, 2024 by Peter Jakes
In an era where financial literacy is more important than ever, personal finance podcasts have emerged as a popular and accessible resource. Whether you’re managing student loans, saving for a down payment, or planning for retirement, these audio shows offer practical advice, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you navigate your financial journey. Here, we’ll explore some of the most useful personal finance podcasts of 2022 and why they stand out.
1. "The Dave Ramsey Show"
Host: Dave Ramsey
Overview: One of the most recognized voices in personal finance, Dave Ramsey offers a blend of practical advice and tough love. His show covers a wide range of topics, including budgeting, debt elimination, investing, and building wealth.
Why It’s Useful:
- Straightforward Advice: Ramsey’s approach is no-nonsense and accessible, making financial concepts easy to understand for everyone.
- Debt-Free Community: The show offers inspiration through debt-free screams and success stories, motivating listeners to take control of their finances.
- Practical Tools: Ramsey isn’t just about theories; he provides actionable steps and tools like the "Baby Steps" to guide listeners toward financial freedom.
2. "Afford Anything"
Host: Paula Pant
Overview: Paula Pant’s podcast explores the philosophy of financial independence and smart decision-making. The show’s motto, "You can afford anything, but not everything," is the core principle behind discussions on financial freedom, investing, and lifestyle design.
Why It’s Useful:
- Diverse Topics: From the technicalities of real estate investing to the psychology of spending, Pant covers a broad spectrum of subjects to cater to different financial goals.
- Expert Guests: Featuring interviews with finance experts, economists, and successful entrepreneurs, the podcast offers varied perspectives and in-depth analysis.
- Listener Questions: Pant frequently answers listener questions, offering personalized advice and making the show highly interactive and relatable.
3. "The Money Guy Show"
Hosts: Brian Preston and Bo Hanson
Overview: Brian Preston and Bo Hanson combine their expertise as financial advisors to provide a show that’s rich in tactics and strategies. They cover everything from investing and tax planning to retirement and estate planning.
Why It’s Useful:
- Comprehensive Coverage: No matter your financial question, there’s likely an episode that addresses it comprehensively.
- Educational Approach: The hosts are excellent educators, breaking down complex financial concepts into digestible and actionable advice.
- Long-Term Perspective: Their focus on long-term financial health can help listeners build sustainable wealth rather than seeking quick wins.
4. "How to Money"
Hosts: Joel Larsgaard and Matt Altmix
Overview: Targeting millennials and Gen Z, "How to Money" combines practical tips with a touch of humor. Joel and Matt discuss day-to-day financial issues, offering advice on managing student loans, affordable travel, and creative ways to save money.
Why It’s Useful:
- Relatable Content: The hosts are in the same age group as their audience, making the content more relatable and tailored to younger listeners.
- Frugality Focus: While they cover various aspects of personal finance, there’s a strong emphasis on frugality, helping listeners stretch their dollars.
- Entertaining Delivery: The hosts’ witty banter and engaging style make learning about finance enjoyable.
5. "ChooseFI"
Hosts: Brad Barrett and Jonathan Mendonsa
Overview: "ChooseFI" is dedicated to the Financial Independence/Retire Early (FIRE) movement. It’s a hub for those looking to maximize their savings, investments, and lifestyle to achieve early retirement.
Why It’s Useful:
- Inspiration and Community: The show fosters a strong community of like-minded individuals striving for financial independence, offering mutual support and motivation.
- Practical Insights: Episodes include actionable strategies for reducing expenses, boosting income, and optimizing investments.
- Success Stories: Hearing from people who have successfully achieved FI can provide tangible proof and inspiration that the journey is possible.
6. "So Money"
Host: Farnoosh Torabi
Overview: Farnoosh Torabi, a seasoned financial journalist and author, engages in conversations with leading personal finance experts, entrepreneurs, and authors. The show delves into personal finance stories, abundantly laced with practical advice and real-life financial strategies.
Why It’s Useful:
- Diverse Guests: The breadth of guest expertise ensures a wide range of topics and perspectives.
- Empowerment Focus: Farnoosh aims to empower listeners to take control of their financial lives, often focusing on financial habits, mindset, and overcoming hurdles.
- Real-Life Applications: The advice given is often tied to real-life scenarios, making financial principles applicable and straightforward to implement.
7. "BiggerPockets Money Podcast"
Hosts: Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench
Overview: Part of the BiggerPockets network, this podcast is essential for those interested in real estate investing. It also touches upon broader financial management, highlighting success stories from ordinary people achieving extraordinary financial success.
Why It’s Useful:
- Expertise in Real Estate: The show’s strong focus on real estate investing provides deep dives into this investment vehicle, from buying your first property to scaling a real estate portfolio.
- Actionable Content: Practical and actionable tips are a cornerstone, making seemingly daunting financial goals achievable.
- Story-Centric: Success stories provide real-world examples and motivation, underscoring the feasibility of financial freedom through real estate.
8. "HerMoney"
Host: Jean Chatzky
Overview: Jean Chatzky’s "HerMoney" podcast is focused on women and personal finance. It addresses the unique financial challenges women face, from the gender pay gap to navigating career transitions and planning for retirement.
Why It’s Useful:
- Women-Centric Advice: Tailored content that addresses financial issues pertinent to women.
- Expert Guests: Featuring top economists, financial planners, and successful women in finance, the podcast offers valuable insights and tips.
- Educational and Empowering: The content is designed to educate and empower women to take control of their financial destinies.
9. "The Financial Independence Podcast"
Host: Brandon, aka Mad Fientist
Overview: Hosted by the Mad Fientist, "The Financial Independence Podcast" explores the finer aspects of achieving financial independence and early retirement. It covers advanced strategies and often includes interviews with notable figures in the FIRE movement.
Why It’s Useful:
- Advanced Strategies: Covers in-depth topics such as tax optimization, travel hacking, and investment strategies.
- Expert Interviews: Discussions with prominent FIRE community members provide a wealth of knowledge and diverse viewpoints.
- Technical Analysis: If you enjoy delving into numbers and technical details, this podcast offers in-depth analysis and strategies.
10. "Financial Grownup"
Host: Bobbi Rebell
Overview: Bobbi Rebell targets a broad audience with advice for anyone striving to be a "financial grownup." The show features conversations with thought leaders, celebrities, and entrepreneurs about their financial journeys and lessons learned along the way.
Why It’s Useful:
- Broad Appeal: Rather than targeting a specific demographic, the show offers tips and lessons applicable to everyone.
- Personal Stories: Guests share personal experiences and financial missteps, providing a relatable and engaging way to learn.
- Practical Guidance: The advice given is often practical and grounded in real-life scenarios.
FAQs
1. Why should I listen to personal finance podcasts?
Personal finance podcasts are a convenient and informative way to improve your financial literacy. They offer expert advice, practical tips, and motivational stories that can help you make better financial decisions, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced investor. Listening to these podcasts can provide you with the knowledge to manage debt, save efficiently, invest wisely, and plan for the future.
2. Are personal finance podcasts free?
Yes, the vast majority of personal finance podcasts are free to listen to. They are typically supported by advertising, sponsorships, or paid premium content, but the core episodes are available at no cost. You can access them on various platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
3. How do I choose the right personal finance podcast for me?
Choosing the right podcast depends on your financial goals and learning preferences. If you’re looking to get out of debt, "The Dave Ramsey Show" might be ideal. For those interested in financial independence, "ChooseFI" or "The Financial Independence Podcast" would be suitable. Take some time to listen to a few different podcasts to see which style and content resonate most with you.
4. Can I trust the advice given in personal finance podcasts?
While many personal finance podcasters are experts or professionals in the field, it’s essential to do your own research and consider multiple sources before making financial decisions. Double-check facts, and if possible, consult with a financial advisor to personalize advice to your situation.
5. Can personal finance podcasts help with specific financial problems?
Yes, many personal finance podcasts address specific financial issues like student loans, budgeting, investing, and retirement planning. Shows like "How to Money" and "Afford Anything" often take listener questions, providing personalized advice on particular problems. Browse through the episode titles or show notes to find topics that are relevant to your needs.
6. How often do new episodes come out?
The frequency of new episodes varies by podcast. Some shows release new content weekly, such as "The Money Guy Show," while others might have a bi-weekly or monthly schedule. Regular updates are usually mentioned on the podcast’s website or social media pages.
7. Are all personal finance podcasts US-centric?
While many popular personal finance podcasts originate from the US, their advice is often applicable to a broader audience. However, context matters—tax laws, investment opportunities, and financial products can vary significantly by country. For more region-specific advice, look for podcasts based in your country.
8. How can I make the most out of listening to personal finance podcasts?
To maximize the benefits of personal finance podcasts:
- Take Notes: Jot down key points and actionable advice.
- Follow Up: Do additional research or seek expert advice on topics you find crucial.
- Set Goals: Implement the strategies discussed in the podcasts to achieve your financial goals.
- Engage: Participate in communities or forums related to the podcast for additional support and motivation.
9. Can personal finance podcasts replace a financial advisor?
While personal finance podcasts are an excellent resource for general advice and education, they cannot replace the personalized advice that a financial advisor can provide. Complex financial situations, tax planning, estate planning, and significant investment decisions often require a professional’s expertise.
10. What’s the best way to listen to personal finance podcasts?
You can listen to personal finance podcasts on various platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or directly from the podcast’s website. Use a podcast app to subscribe to your favorite shows, download episodes for offline listening, and get notified of new releases.
In conclusion, the rise of personal finance podcasts offers an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their financial literacy. Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or well on your way, these podcasts can provide the guidance, inspiration, and practical advice you need to achieve your financial goals.
