Think Before You Click: How to Be a Smarter, Safer Online Shopper
In this month’s episode of Think Like A Saver, we’re diving into a topic that’s all too familiar: the pressure to spend, especially when it comes to online shopping. With one-click purchases, flash sales, and countdown timers, it’s easy to fall into the trap of buying something you didn’t plan for. But what happens when that “deal” turns out to be a dangerous or poor-quality product? It could cost you more than just money, especially if it puts your safety at risk. To help us unpack this topic, we sat down with Courtney Griffin, Director of Consumer Protection at the Consumer Federation of America. Courtney recently co-authored a report on the dangers of unsafe and counterfeit products sold by third-party sellers on popular online marketplaces — and her insights are both eye-opening and empowering. In this episode, you’ll learn: What really goes on behind the scenes of online marketplaces — and how they differ from traditional retailers How to spot red flags like fake reviews, sketchy seller names, or prices that are just too good to be true Why impulse shopping online is so common (and what you can do to hit pause before hitting “buy”) The hidden financial cost of unsafe or low-quality products — especially for families trying to make every dollar count Simple ways to protect your money and your safety while still scoring smart savings Courtney reminds us that being a savvy saver means being an informed consumer. You don’t need to stop shopping altogether……just shop more wisely. A little bit of research, a short pause before checkout, and some thoughtful planning can go a long way toward protecting your finances and your peace of mind.
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Making Housing Work for You
In this powerful episode of Think Like a Saver, hosts Amy Miller (America Saves) and Krystel Spell (Veteran Saves) sit down with housing expert Sharon Cornelissen (Director of Housing at the Consumer Federation of America), and Michael DeLong (Research and Advocacy Associate at CFA). Together, they unpack what it really means to make confident housing decisions— whether you’re renting, buying a home, navigating a VA loan, or facing housing instability. In this episode, we cover: Why renting is not “falling behind,” and how to make it a smart part of your financial journey The pros, cons, and realities of homeownership today Key steps to prepare for buying a home, including VA loans, FHA loans, and USDA mortgage options How renter’s insurance and homeowners insurance protect your financial future What to do if you’re facing eviction, foreclosure, or housing insecurity How to build a personal housing plan that supports your goals and budget LINKS: AmericaSaves.org VeteranSaves.org HUD Housing Counselors 211.org Share Your Saver Story: Share your story to inspire others and receive a $50 gift card Stay Connected: Be sure to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!
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Exploring Your Money Story
In this special Mental Health Awareness Month episode, we dive deep into the emotional side of saving with financial therapist and planner Dr. Josh “JW” Harris. We explore how your emotions, past experiences, and family history shape your relationship with money. Understanding your personal “money story” can unlock real financial confidence. Josh shares his personal journey, explains what financial therapy is, and offers practical tools to help listeners reflect on their financial narrative. From emotional spending to setting healthy financial boundaries, this episode is full of guidance for anyone looking to build a stronger emotional foundation for their financial goals. In this episode, we cover: What a money story is and why it matters How emotions like anxiety, shame, and stress affect saving and spending How to begin rewriting your financial narrative with simple, reflective tools Why financial wellness and emotional wellness are closely connected The role employers can play in supporting employee financial well-being LINKS: Josh “JW” Harris – SeekingFinancialGuidance.com Financial Therapy Association (A directory of certified financial therapists) America Saves Pledge: Take the pledge to start saving with support America Saves Resource Center: Free tools, tips, and guides Share Your Saver Story: Share your story to inspire others and receive a $50 gift card Stay Connected: Be sure to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. For more tools and inspiration to support your savings journey, visit AmericaSaves.org.
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Avoiding Tax Time Scams
In this episode, we’re diving into the darker side of tax season—scams, shady tax preparers, and sneaky data collection practices. We're joined by Ben Winters of the Consumer Federation of America who shares real-life examples of tax scams that are tricking everyday people and how you can protect yourself from data collection practices. In this episode, we cover: How scammers use fear and urgency. From threatening jail time to promising unexpected refunds, scams are designed to provoke a reaction. If someone contacts you out of the blue claiming to be from the IRS. Scams aren't just phone calls. Scammers also use text messages, emails, fake websites, and even social media to try to get your personal information. Watch out for phishing. Be wary of clicking on links that claim to be from the IRS or tax prep companies. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Real-life scam stories. Amy shares how a fraudulent tax prep service operating out of a used car lot was raking in six figures by scamming neighbors out of their refunds. How to be mindful of your data. Some popular tax prep companies have been caught using hidden trackers (like pixels) that share your personal tax info with platforms like Facebook. Many also use dark patterns, which are tricky design tactics to get your consent to sell or share your data. What you can do to protect yourself, and more! Remember, you’re not alone if you've fallen victim. Scams are targeting almost everyone, and it's important not to feel shame if you’ve been affected. LINKS: IRS Official Site IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit Phone #: 1-800-908-4490. FTC Tax Scam Info Report Identity Theft Learn more about Protecting Your Privacy at Tax Time Take The America Saves Pledge Make The Most of Your Tax Refund: 30/40/30 Rule Visit The America Saves Resource Center Submit Your Saver Story Here -------
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Your Roadmap to Saving at Any Age
In this episode of Think Like a Saver, we discuss how to save at any age. No matter where you are in life, there's always an opportunity to improve your financial future. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to build strong financial habits in your twenties, even with student loans and an entry-level salary. Smart strategies for managing competing financial priorities in your thirties, including homeownership and kids. Why your forties are a great time to maximize retirement contributions and increase emergency savings. Key steps for catch-up retirement savings and long-term care planning in your fifties. How to make your money last in your sixties and beyond with smart withdrawal strategies. The importance of financial conversations and how talking about money can help you reach your goals. LINKS: Take The America Saves Pledge Visit The America Saves Resource Center Submit Your Saver Story Here Learn About 529 Plans Learn About Catch Up Contributions Setting Savings Goals as a Family Flyer Saving at Any Age Roadmap Flyer -------
Tune into to any finance expert and it seems that they think that saving is very black and white - this or that. "Have 3-6 months of savings in your savings account or you're bad with money!"
America Saves knows that saving is a habit, not a destination. So we're sharing tips, strategies, and tools to help you "Think Like A Saver."
Join Co-Hosts Kia McCallister-Young and Amanda Woods as they take you on the journey of becoming a more informed, empowered saver who can make the best financial decisions for you and your loved ones, based on your unique situation.
They'll be joined by experts on topics like creative ways to save successfully, building emergency funds, budgeting, reducing debt, homeownership, improving credit, saving for retirement, and so much more.
America Saves is committed to a no-shame approach to saving. Ready to save successfully, reduce your debt, and get on a path towards building debt? You can do that here with the Think Like A Saver Podcast!
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