03.20.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Airfare Booking Strategy - The Clark Howard Podcast Recap

Podcast: The Clark Howard Podcast

Published: 2026-03-20

What Happened

Clark Howard tackled the rising costs of air travel due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, noting a 16% increase in airfares attributed to soaring jet fuel prices. He advised listeners to use points for booking travel during such times and recommended using Google Flights or Hopper for searching multi-airline fares.

Stephanie from Wisconsin recounted her experience of purchasing a cheese pizza for $12 at Whole Foods, suggesting that grocery stores can be practical meal options while traveling. This illustrates how travelers can manage costs by choosing alternatives to traditional dining.

A change in policy for the Capital One Venture X card was highlighted, where additional cardholders now face fees for lounge access. This update serves as a reminder for cardholders to stay informed about changes in card benefits that might affect their travel plans.

Clark Howard responded to criticism from Cassidy in Oregon, who objected to his earlier suggestion of providing fake data on the American Community Survey. Cassidy emphasized the importance of accurate data collection, underscoring the ethical responsibilities involved in data reporting.

Kendall from South Carolina pointed out that some expensive colleges offer significant scholarships, potentially covering up to 100% of costs. Clark mentioned a resource on clark.com listing nearly a thousand colleges where students might receive free tuition, highlighting the importance of exploring financial aid options.

A listener from Florida, Scott, corrected Clark on the topic of mortgages due upon death, referencing the Garn-Saint Germain Depository Institutions Act of 1982. This act allows certain transfers of real property without triggering the due-on-sale clause, providing clarity on property and mortgage rights after a homeowner's death.

Clark Howard shared feedback from various listeners, including Cindy from Michigan, who expressed her boredom with discussions on Roth IRAs and retirement funds. This reflects the diverse interests of the audience and the challenge of addressing financial topics that resonate with all listeners.

A travel-related incident was shared by Mark from Florida, who encountered blood-stained bedding at a hotel. Clark advised dealing with travel issues immediately and suggested filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau for better resolution. He also recommended posting reviews on Google and TripAdvisor to prompt a response from the hotel management.

Key Insights

• Airfares have risen by 16% since the beginning of hostilities in Iran, primarily due to increased jet fuel costs. Travelers are advised to utilize points for bookings and use tools like Google Flights or Hopper for fare searches.
• Some expensive colleges offer scholarships covering up to 100% of costs, potentially making them more affordable than state universities. Clark Howard's website provides a list of nearly a thousand colleges where free tuition might be available.
• A change in the Capital One Venture X card policy now requires additional cardholders to pay fees for lounge access. Cardholders should stay informed about benefit changes that could impact their travel experiences.
• The Garn-Saint Germain Depository Institutions Act of 1982 allows for the transfer of real property without incurring a due-on-sale clause upon the homeowner's death. This legal detail ensures clarity on mortgage obligations and property rights.