In this episode of PennyWise, host Nat Cardona engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Chip Lupo, a writer and analyst for WalletHub, as they explore the evolving landscape of tipping in America. With 75% of Americans feeling that tipping has spiraled out of control, they dive deep into the cultural implications and the new norms surrounding gratuity in various service sectors. Chip shares insights on the traditional tipping percentages for services like dining, hair salons, and delivery, while also addressing the growing trend of tipping at self-service kiosks and other unexpected places.

Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of when and how much to tip, including guidelines for different service scenarios. They also discuss the ethical concerns surrounding tipping as a potential substitute for fair wages, prompting listeners to consider their own tipping practices and the pressures associated with them. Chip emphasizes the importance of tipping for good service while also acknowledging the discomfort that can arise when service falls short.

For more insights on tipping trends and best practices, check out WalletHub's extensive resources on personal finance.

Show notes created with assistance from https://headliner.app

In this episode of PennyWise, host Nat Cardona is joined by NerdWallet personal finance expert Kim Palmer to tackle the dual challenge many American couples face: financing a wedding while pursuing homeownership. As costs continue to rise, they discuss practical do's and don'ts that can help newly engaged couples navigate these financial hurdles effectively.
Listeners will learn about the shifting demographics of first-time homebuyers, with the median age now at 38, and strategies for building a house fund instead of opting for traditional wedding gifts. Kim shares insights on the importance of avoiding credit card debt when financing wedding expenses, emphasizing that it's crucial to minimize financial burdens post-wedding.

More on this episode from Nerdwallet- First Homes and Weddings

For more insights, check out NerdWallet's comprehensive resources on financing weddings and homeownership.

Show notes created with assistance from https://headliner.app

In this insightful episode of PennyWise, host Nat Cardona sits down with WalletHub's financial expert, Adam McCann, to tackle a common question: how much should you budget for clothing in 2025? As clothing prices continue to rise, Adam breaks down the average annual spending on apparel, revealing that households typically spend around $1,945 on clothing each year. However, he emphasizes that this figure can vary widely based on personal needs and lifestyle.
Listeners will discover practical tips for saving money on clothing, including the importance of shopping during sales, utilizing coupons, and understanding the difference between 'needs' and 'wants' in their wardrobe. Adam also discusses the benefits of investing in quality pieces that last longer, as well as savvy shopping strategies like buying off-season and exploring thrift stores or community clothing swaps.

Additionally, the episode covers the advantages of using the right credit cards for clothing purchases, highlighting how rewards and cashback options can maximize savings. Adam stresses the importance of managing credit wisely to avoid interest charges that can negate savings from rewards.

More on this story- How Much to Budget for Clothes in 2025

For more insights on budgeting and saving, check out WalletHub's resources at WalletHub.

Show notes created with assistance from https://headliner.app