Money Girl

1010. Are you feeling "car poor" or trapped in an auto loan that costs more than your vehicle is worth? In this Finance Friday episode, Laura answers a listener's question about how to navigate an unaffordable car loan when you’re upside-down (negative equity).
If you are looking to lower your monthly payments or are debating between a car lease vs. buying your next vehicle, you’ll learn the pros, cons, and math behind making the most affordable choice for your budget.
We talk about:
How to manage an upside-down car loan: Strategies for refinancing or negotiating with lenders when you owe more than the car's market value.
Auto Refinancing 101: When to switch your loan to a credit union or online lender to reduce interest rates and monthly payments.
The 20% Rule: Why a significant down payment is the best defense against rapid vehicle depreciation.
Leasing vs. Buying: A breakdown of the long-term costs, maintenance responsibilities, and flexibility of each option.
Hidden Costs of Ownership: How to account for repairs, mileage restrictions, and residual value before you sign a contract.
Upcoming Wedding Series This May: We want your questions about wedding finances! Whether you're the bride, groom, or a guest, send us your questions about budgeting for the big day. Email: [email protected] or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308.
Money Girl is a Quick and Dirty Tips Podcast, hosted by Laura Adams.
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Transcripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com.
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1009. Only 37% of Americans follow a formal budget—so if you hate spreadsheets, you’re in the majority. Whether you’re dealing with budget burnout, irregular income, or "vibes-based" spending, you can still reach your financial goals.
In this episode, Laura breaks down how to manage money effectively without the restriction of a traditional budget. Learn how to shift your focus from tracking every penny to growing your total net worth.
Key Takeaways:
The "Pay Yourself First" Rule: Why prioritizing 10–15% for retirement is more effective than micro-managing expenses.
Wealth on Autopilot: How to use automation and AI tools to build savings without thinking about it.
Macro vs. Micro: Why tracking your Net Worth is the ultimate metric for financial success.
The Income Shift: Why increasing your earning potential is more powerful than ruthlessly cutting coupons.
Money Girl is a Quick and Dirty Tips Podcast, hosted by Laura Adams.
Have a question for Money Girl? Email: [email protected] or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308.
Discover more from Money Girl!
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Transcripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1008. Thinking about raiding your retirement to fund a down payment? In this episode of Money Girl, Laura answers a question from Wendy, who’s considering taking a 401(k) loan to buy a home with 20% down. Learn the rules for using a retirement plan loan, its pros and cons, and alternatives for buying a home without borrowing from your retirement.
Money Girl is a Quick and Dirty Tips Podcast, hosted by Laura Adams.
Have a question for Money Girl? Email: [email protected] or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308.
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Transcripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com.

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In this episode, Laura sits down with Lisa Greene-Lewis. She’s a TurboTax expert and CPA with over 20 years of experience in tax preparation and helping filers save money. Lisa’s also worked as a public auditor, controller, and been self-employed, so she understands common mistakes to avoid and tips for legally paying less tax.
What We Discuss:
New rules that reduce taxes and increase tax refunds for the average taxpayer.
Tips for small businesses and the self-employed that make filing taxes easier.
When to consider incorporating your business or staying a sole proprietor.
Who can claim a home office deduction and whether it’s a red flag for the IRS.
How long to keep personal and business tax returns and their backup.
How to get year-round tax support with TurboTax Experts for Business.

Money Girl is a Quick and Dirty Tips Podcast, hosted by Laura Adams.
Have a question for Money Girl? Email: [email protected] or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308.
Discover more from Money Girl!
Facebook
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Transcripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com.

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

Is homeownership still the "American Dream," or is it becoming a financial burden? With 81% of renters aspiring to own but 61% fearing they never will, the gap between renting and owning has never felt wider. However, the truth is that both paths can lead to significant wealth if you play your cards right.
In this episode of Money Girl, Laura breaks down the persistent rent-versus-own debate. While homeowners benefit from equity and appreciation, savvy renters can leverage flexibility and lower upfront costs to out-invest their home-owning peers. Whether you’re tired of "throwing money away" on rent or feeling "house rich and cash poor," this guide provides the clarity you need to make the best move for your bank account.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
4 ways renting can actually make you wealthier (including the "investment gap" advantage).
The hidden costs of homeownership that go far beyond your monthly mortgage payment.
The tax breaks and appreciation benefits that make real estate a powerful long-term play.
How to hedge against inflation with fixed-rate housing costs.
The "5-Year Rule" and other lifestyle factors that should dictate your decision.
Note: This episode originally aired in January 2025.
Have a money question? Send an email to [email protected] or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308.
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