Managing your utility bills doesn't have to feel like a guessing game. In this episode of ​Think Like a Saver​, Amy is joined by Karim Marshall, Director of Climate & Energy at the Consumer Federation of America, to discuss budget billing - a tool offered by many utility providers that can help make your monthly energy bills more predictable. Learn how budget billing works, its different names, and how it can help you better manage your Spending & Savings Plan. If you're looking for a simple way to bring more consistency to your monthly expenses, this episode is for you.

June is all about housing at America Saves, and our newest podcast episode discusses something that plays an important role whether you're preparing to rent your next apartment or buy your first home: your credit. We're joined by Jenelle Dito from FICO® to help you better understand credit and how it can impact your housing goals. Some questions we cover include: What should you be paying attention to when it comes to your credit score? Which credit scores matter for mortgages? What should renters know about credit scores? Taking a few simple steps today when it comes to your credit can help create more opportunities and options for your future.

It's Mental Health Awareness Month and our team has been putting together new resources around building a positive relationship with your money. And honestly, that starts with something that doesn't always get talked about, but shapes everything... Your Money Mindset In our newest episode, the America Saves team (Amy, Krystel, and Kelly) sit down to discuss what exactly a money mindset is and how to build financial confidence through small wins. This podcast is a message from our team to you – to help you feel seen, supported and encouraged as you work on your relationship with money.

As America Saves Week comes to a close, we invite you to look ahead, because your financial journey isn't just about getting started, it's about staying engaged over time. In this final episode, Your Story, Your Future, Amy is joined by financial planner Matthew Moore of Planning Alliance for a practical, real-life conversation about what financial planning actually looks like, especially when life is busy, unpredictable, and far from perfect. Together, they break down common scenarios many savers face, from recent graduates and young professionals with debt to parents feeling behind and small business owners managing inconsistent income. Through each example, they highlight simple, actionable steps you can take today to move forward, without overwhelm. This episode reinforces a powerful message from the week: you don't need a perfect plan to build a strong financial future. What matters most is consistency, flexibility, and staying connected to your goals over time. You'll walk away with: A new way to think about financial planning (hint: it's not about perfection) Practical steps tailored to real-life situations Encouragement to build habits that support long-term success Tools to help you stay engaged, including monthly and quarterly financial check-ins  Because your financial future isn't shaped by one big decision! It's built step by step, month by month. Tune in and take your next step.

Day 4 of America Saves Week 2026 is all about rewriting the debt narrative and moving from feeling overwhelmed to feeling informed and in control. In this episode, Amy is joined by Morgan Spears from Working Credit to talk about why so many people avoid looking at their debt, and what actually happens when they do. Together, they break down what's really in a credit report, clear up common myths, and explain how understanding your full financial picture can open the door to real progress. You'll hear about: Why avoiding debt and credit is so common and how to move past it What to look for when reviewing your credit report Common credit myths (and what's actually true) How credit counseling can help you make sense of your situation Why clarity is one of the most powerful tools for building confidence This conversation is a reminder that information isn't something to fear, it's something you can use. When you understand where you stand, you can make a plan that works for you. If you've been putting this off, consider this your moment to take that first step.

Kicking off America Saves Week 2026, Day 1 is all about building a financial foundation that actually works for your life…not a perfect plan, but one you can stick with. In this episode, Amy is joined by Valerie Richards from Association for Financial Counseling, Planning & Education to break down what it really means to feel financially grounded. Together, they walk through simple, realistic steps to help you understand where you are, identify what matters most, and take action in a way that fits your day-to-day life. You'll learn how to: Get a clear picture of your finances without overwhelm Choose priorities that make the biggest impact Use simple tools, like automation, to build momentum Stay flexible and adjust as life changes If you've ever felt like financial advice doesn't fit your reality, this episode is for you. Start where you are, take one small step, and begin building a foundation that supports your goals, today and over time.

More and more people are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT and other generative platforms for help with budgeting, saving, investing, and financial planning. It's fast. It's convenient. And it feels judgment-free.  But when it comes to your money, is AI a good starting point, a risky shortcut, or a little of both?  In this episode of Think Like a Saver, Amy is joined by Ben Winters from the Consumer Federation of America to explore why so many people are using AI for financial guidance, where it can be helpful, and where it falls short. They discuss privacy concerns, accuracy risks, overreliance, and how to use AI thoughtfully without outsourcing your financial responsibility.  If you're looking to build financial confidence without adding confusion, this episode will help you think critically, and clearly, about money and technology. 

Tax season doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this episode of Think Like a Saver, Amy and Krystel are joined by Daniel Webber from the Internal Revenue Service to break down what taxpayers really need to know this year.  Together, they walk through commonly forgotten tax documents, simple mistakes that delay refunds, and why filing early, and electronically, can help protect against fraud. The conversation also highlights unique considerations for military and Veteran families, including multiple income streams, deployments, and frequent moves. Plus, Daniel helps bust common IRS myths and shares practical tools and resources to help you file with confidence and less stress.  Whether you're filing on your own or seeking extra support, this episode offers clear, trustworthy guidance to help you take your next best step this tax season. 

A new year is the perfect time for a fresh financial start but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Think Like A Saver, Amy Miller from America Saves and Krystel Spell from Veteran Saves break it down into simple, doable steps to help you take control of your money and build confidence without the stress. Together, they walk through how to get a clear view of your finances, set realistic goals that fit your life, and create saving habits that actually stick. From using helpful tools like the Financial Check-In Checklist and Spending & Savings Plan, to starting small with savings and tracking your progress, this episode is all about momentum, not perfection. You'll also hear how small wins can build lasting financial confidence, why consistency matters more than dollar amounts, and how taking the America Saves or Veteran Saves Pledge can help you stay motivated and connected throughout the year. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to reset your financial goals, this episode offers encouragement, practical tips, and a reminder that your financial future is created one small step at a time. Tune in and start the year with confidence, one saver-friendly step at a time.

Buying a car is one of the biggest financial decisions many families make, and with rising prices, longer loan terms, and increasing delinquencies, it's more important than ever to approach the process with confidence. In this episode of Think Like A Saver, Amy Miller from America Saves and Krystel Spell from Veteran Saves sit down with Erin Witte, Director of Consumer Protection at the Consumer Federation of America, to break down what's really happening in the auto market and how buyers can protect themselves. From understanding common dealership pitfalls to getting pre-approved, calculating the true cost of a vehicle, and knowing your rights, this conversation gives you practical, actionable tools to shop wisely, avoid pressure tactics, and make a car purchase that supports your long-term financial goals. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a military family, or simply planning ahead for your next vehicle, this episode will help you buy with clarity and confidence.