The Clark Howard Podcast: June 20, 2025 Edition – "About Clark Howard + A Special Birthday Edition of Clark Stinks"

Host: Clark Howard
Co-Host: Krista
Release Date: June 20, 2025

1. Introduction to the Special Birthday Edition

In this heartfelt and celebratory episode of The Clark Howard Podcast, titled "About Clark Howard + A Special Birthday Edition of Clark Stinks," host Clark Howard and co-host Krista honor Clark's birthday while reflecting on his remarkable journey and the profound impact he has had on his listeners. The episode intertwines personal anecdotes, listener testimonials, and a segment called "Clark Stinks," where listeners affectionately tease Clark.

2. Clark Howard's Personal Story

Early Life and Education

Clark begins by sharing his unconventional path to success. Growing up in a seemingly affluent household, he was abruptly confronted with his family's financial reality when his father lost his job after nearly three decades with the same company.

Clark Howard [02:43]:
"I have a very, very odd, unusual life story. I grew up in a very comfortable life... my dad after dinner asked me to stay there. He wanted to talk to me and he said I have some terrible news. I lost my job."

This revelation forced Clark to take immediate financial responsibility. He returned to college as a night student, balancing work and studies to fund his education.

Career Beginnings: Social Work and Career Action

After graduating, Clark ventured into social work, assisting at-risk youth. At 23, he founded an alternative school, Career Action, which operated for about 25 years, equipping individuals with essential employment skills.

Clark Howard [08:51]:
"So at 25, I opened a travel agency... I was in the right business at the right moment."

Transition to Entrepreneurship and Media

In the early 1980s, Clark capitalized on the deregulation of the airline industry by starting a travel agency, which expanded to five locations by age 31. However, when a national chain bought out his business, Clark found himself "retired" at a young age. His hiatus from work was brief, as he soon transitioned into media, leveraging his expertise in travel to become a sought-after radio guest and eventually the host of his own show, "Cover Your Assets."

Clark Howard [10:37]:
"When I was doing the show, I did not want to ever be censored. I never have done endorsements or commercials... I wanted the freedom to say what I felt was right."

Founding Consumer Action Center and Embracing Digital Media

In 1993, Clark founded the Consumer Action Center to provide free, personalized advice to consumers. Embracing the digital age early on, Clark launched clark.com in 1997 and pivoted from radio syndication to podcasting and YouTube to reach a broader audience.

Clark Howard [14:00]:
"And Krista started what was then a web page, not a website. And ended up being now COO of my company."

3. Financial Philosophy and Practices

Clark's financial acumen is deeply rooted in personal experience. Witnessing his family's financial instability instilled in him a relentless commitment to saving and financial independence.

Clark Howard [15:04]:
"When something happens to you as a teen... those things stick with them their whole lives and change how they think about money."

He adopted a disciplined approach, saving half of his income from an early age, which afforded him the freedom to avoid commercial endorsements and maintain editorial independence in his media ventures.

Clark Howard [15:04]:
"I've always been about this stuff... living on less than what you make. I've always been a big saver because I wanted to be in control."

4. Volunteer and Community Involvement

Beyond his professional endeavors, Clark is deeply committed to community service. He has been actively involved with Habitat for Humanity, sponsoring and participating in the construction of over 104 homes.

Clark Howard [18:30]:
"I'm building right now in Tulsa, Oklahoma and in Atlanta. So pretty awesome."

His dedication extends to various volunteer activities, emphasizing the importance of giving back and empowering others to achieve the American Dream.

5. Listener Messages and Impact

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to heartfelt messages from listeners celebrating Clark's birthday and sharing how his advice has transformed their lives. These testimonials highlight the broad spectrum of Clark's influence, from financial guidance to personal empowerment.

Notable Listener Quotes:

• Susan [21:43]:
  "In 2008 when I got unexpectedly laid off from my longtime job, I called into the show... Clark gave me several steps I needed to take to make sure I recovered both financially and personally."

• Deborah [22:31]:
  "I followed the recommendation on my 401k and my money doubled just as predicted. Thanks for all you and your team do for others."

• Reggie [25:00]:
  "Thanks to all of your wisdom and guidance, you've changed my financial and credit path forever. Happy Birthday to the coolest nerdy guy."

• Lana [33:21]:
  "I've been a single mom working as a nurse. I now have a net worth of $4 million. You are so right. It's not how much you earn, it's how much you save."

These messages underscore Clark's role not just as a financial advisor but as a trusted confidant and mentor to millions.

6. Conclusion and Clark's Reflections

As the episode draws to a close, Clark expresses profound gratitude for his listeners' support and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Clark Howard [35:16]:
"I really want in a time that so often we feel powerless... things feel out of control. We deal with these large impersonal companies and organizations and government that we have more power than we realize in our own lives."

He emphasizes his mission to inspire confidence and empower listeners to take control of their financial destinies, reinforcing the core values that have defined his career.

Clark Howard [35:16]:
"I really want to inspire you to have the confidence to be the boss of your own life."

7. Special Segment: Clark Stinks

Interwoven with the celebratory messages is the playful "Clark Stinks" segment, where listeners lovingly rib Clark about his youthful appearance and other endearing quirks. This lighthearted exchange showcases the warm relationship between Clark and his audience.

Listener Reggie [25:00]:
"Happy Birthday to the coolest nerdy guy. No, you rock."

Clark Howard [26:04]:
"Yeah, I'm gonna save it. By the way, do you know how often people at TV stations say how often do you dye your hair?"

8. Final Birthday Wishes and Goodbyes

Krista continues to read additional heartfelt and humorous birthday messages, reflecting the deep connection Clark has fostered with his audience over the years. As the episode concludes, Clark and Krista wish each other a wonderful birthday weekend, underscoring the episode's blend of personal celebration and professional reflection.

Clark Howard [36:53]:
"And I hope that you have an absolutely fantastic weekend and thank you for being part of this supportive community one to another."

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience and Adaptability: Clark Howard's journey from an unexpected early retirement to becoming a media mogul exemplifies adaptability and resilience.

• Financial Discipline: His commitment to saving and financial independence stems from personal experiences, shaping his advice and philosophy.

• Community Focus: Beyond financial advice, Clark's dedication to volunteerism and community service highlights his holistic approach to empowerment.

• Impactful Mentorship: The numerous listener testimonials attest to Clark's significant role in guiding individuals toward financial stability and personal growth.

• Authenticity and Integrity: Clark's choice to eschew commercial endorsements for editorial independence underscores his commitment to authentic and trustworthy advice.

This special birthday edition not only celebrates Clark Howard's personal milestones but also reaffirms his enduring mission to empower listeners through financial wisdom and compassionate guidance.