The Clark Howard Podcast

Forced To Retire Early? The Shocking Data Everyone Needs To Know & Market Warning for Investors

Why do most Americans retire years earlier than they planned? In this episode, Wes Moss breaks down a startling trend from recent 2026 retirement studies. While most workers plan to clock out around age 65 or 66, the data shows the average actual retirement age is 61 or 62. Wes explores the three major reasons behind this gap – and shares the exact planning strategy you need to protect your financial future. Also, Wes dives into recent market volatility. While the market managed a shockingly fast 12-day recovery, Wes issues a crucial warning: this speed is the exception, not the rule. Learn the historical reality of market corrections so you don't get lulled into a false sense of security.

Plus, Mallory shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the May 26, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!

Learn more about Wes: 


BOOKS BY WES MOSS  


Wes Moss, CFP® 

Wes Moss - Clark.com

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Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.    Also, while many of us use fitness trackers to count steps or monitor sleep, the latest data shows some of these devices are evolving into genuine lifesavers. Clark has worn a Garmin for twenty years and a Samsung smartwatch, but the Oura Ring has truly impressed him and for good reason, as new findings indicate.  


Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2

Oura Reports: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:


Is Turo Legit? 5 Things To Know Before You Use It


5 of Clark Howard's Most Extreme Frugal Hacks


What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? - Clark Howard


The Insurance Policies You Need (and Some You Don't)


What Age Are Americans Actually Starting Social Security?


Term Life vs. Whole Life Insurance: Understanding the Difference

Oura Ring Helps Uncover 'Multiple Cases of Lymphoma,' Says Its Chief Medical Officer

Axios: Finish Line: The quiet rise of "prescribing connection"


4 Ways To Stop Junk Mail - Clark Howard

How To Choose the Best Charities for Your Donations - Clark Howard


Memorial Day 2026: Facts, Meaning & Traditions

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark

Clark.com daily money newsletter


Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

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With  Memorial Day weekend upon us, Clark shares important travel know-how. Navigating the rental car counter has become more like rocket science than a simple travel chore, but protecting your wallet starts with a few simple steps. With "car rental rage" on the rise due to surprise charges and poor service, it is critical to follow Clark’s timely rules. Also, if you’re looking for a domestic getaway, soft demand in a normally popular travel market presents a golden opportunity for the savvy traveler!

Clark’s Rental Cars 101: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

Vegas Nerve: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:


How to Protect Your Wallet From Rental Car ‘Gotchas’⁠


Cheapest Way to Rent a Car: Expert Tips - Clark Howard

Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know


American Express Platinum Card® Review: Is It Worth It?

Amex premium car rental protection


5 Things to Know About the Costco Car Rental Program


3 Reasons You Should Never Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room

What Domestic Destination Is a Deal Right Now?


HotelTonight: Last Minute Hotel Deals at Great Hotels

Priceline - Find Cheap Hotel Rooms & Discount Hotels


Travel Archives - Clark Howard 

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark

Clark.com daily money newsletter


Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10 Essential Duties of a Real Fiduciary Financial Advisor (It’s Not Just Investing)

If you think a financial advisor’s only job is to pick stocks, you’re missing out on the most valuable services a true fiduciary provides. In this episode, Wes Moss breaks down the ten essential roles a fee-only advisor should play. Whether you are engineering a retirement cash flow or navigating the emotional rollercoaster of market volatility, learn why a real fiduciary is your "personal CFO" for every major life decision, not just your investment portfolio.Mentioned on the show:


What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One?


Best Financial Advisors in 2026 - Clark Howard


How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor - Clark Howard

Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the May 19, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!

Learn more about Wes: 


BOOKS BY WES MOSS  


Wes Moss, CFP® 

Wes Moss - Clark.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recent financial statistics reveal something highly disturbing: The average American saves just 4% of their pay. Saving just four cents of every dollar earned is inadequate to provide long-term security and leaves the majority of the country living on the edge of a financial cliff. If you find yourself stuck in this cycle, it is time to embrace the "penny-at-a-time" strategy.  Also, the upcoming Memorial Day weekend brings massive sales events at furniture stores. The industry is flat on its back due to a frozen housing market, with many retailers in acute financial distress. If you’re in the market for furniture, know how to play the pay game strategically to avoid getting burned.

Average Saving Doesn’t Cut It: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

Warning: Furniture Sales: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

4 simple ways to start saving

Save Money Archives - Clark Howard


Simple Trick To Pay Down Credit Card Debt Quicker - Clark Howard


What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids?


4 Types of Term Life Insurance Companies Explained - Clark Howard


Why You Need To Check Your Credit Report Today - Clark Howard 

Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card at a Furniture Store

5 Things to Know About New Settlement That Could Change Credit Card Rewards

SIM Card Swapping: The Dangerous Cell Phone Scam Everyone Needs To Know About

This Simple iPhone Update Stops Dangerous Spyware From Stealing Your Data


What Is a Passkey and How Do Passkeys Work? 

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark

Clark.com daily money newsletter


Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices