08-14-26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Essential Documents
Summary
Clark Howard addresses listener feedback on thermostat settings, natural gas deregulation, and Costco credit card rates, while defending Tesla’s safety features against criticism. He strongly advises parents to have their 18-year-old children sign durable powers of attorney and HIPAA releases to ensure medical access. The episode also covers 529 plan withdrawals, the risks of storing credit cards at medical providers, and strategies for securing debit cards against fraud.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: LinkedIn Hiring Pro and Gatorade Light
Show intro and preview of upcoming topics
Listener feedback on thermostat settings for sleep
Deregulated natural gas markets and delivery charges
Critique of Costco credit card rates and shopping tips
Using Visible phone as home internet connection
Cell phone warranty fees vs credit card coverage
Success stories with third-party vehicle warranties
Debate on Tesla FSD safety and autonomous driving
Sponsors: LinkedIn, Gatorade, Uber Eats, Visible, Tidy Cats
Legal steps for emerging adults: POA and HIPAA forms
Best practices for paying college expenses from 529 plans
Risks of leaving credit cards on file with medical providers
Securing Schwab debit cards and managing cash usage
Closing remarks and weekend wishes
Sponsor: Uber Eats back to school promotion
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