Good morning, HTM fam!

Can you believe we’re already nearing the end of January?

The truth is, time can get away from us. Step back, readjust, and make sure you’re on track to hit those goals you set for yourself. Don’t let time slip away!

LIFESTYLE

Using AI to Manage Money 🤖

We’ve talked about the downsides of AI on the show. But while meaningful risks still exist, there’s also the potential to use it in helpful ways, too.

Money tasks don’t have to take hours, include endless spreadsheets, or give you a headache that makes you want to give up before you start. With the right prompts, AI can help simplify the process: organizing your numbers, spotting patterns, and helping you take that first step without feeling overwhelmed.

Where AI Shines ✨

• Build a budget in minutes by plugging in your monthly income, fixed expenses (rent, utilities, subscriptions), and variable spending (groceries, fun money, etc.)

• Spot spending patterns you might miss by uploading your personal finance data. (looking at you, “just one coffee” purchases).

• Brainstorm savings goals and simple plans to reach them, without opening yet another spreadsheet. “What happens if I increase 401(k) contributions by 2%?”

• Draft a payoff plan for debt. If you’re looking less for general advice and more for tailored info based on your particular situation, AI can provide insight.

• Comparing tradeoffs. If you want to compare total compensation from two job offers, AI can be helpful. Or contrast two different home loan quotes to see which is best for you.

AI is great at organizing information and helping you get started, especially if budgeting feels overwhelming. We’ve seen folks use AI as a way to push back against excessive hospital bills, leading to forgiveness or a meaningful reduction. As AI continues to improve, neglecting it completely might not be the best way to proceed.

Where AI Should Not Be In Charge 🚫

As helpful as it is, AI shouldn’t be making big financial decisions for you. That means:

• ❌ Picking individual stocks.

• ❌ Predicting the next stock market crash.

• ❌ Promising “can’t-miss” investment returns.

AI doesn’t know your risk tolerance, long-term goals, or real-life priorities (and it definitely doesn’t have a magic money wand). Don’t blindly outsource your financial decisions to large language models! If you’re looking for quick insight, using AI in moderation can be helpful. For a more in-depth review of your finances or advice on long-term goals, a financial advisor might be more appropriate.

Think of AI like a helpful assistant: great at crunching numbers, organizing your thoughts, and saving you time, but you still need to make the final call. AI isn’t here to manage your money for you, but it can help you think more clearly about it. 😌

GROCERY

Make Costco Pay for Itself 🛒

That $65 Costco membership fee can feel like a barrier to saving on your grocery bill. But according to the math (and some very dedicated Costco shoppers), buying just a few everyday staples can make the membership pay for itself.

Big Winners

• 🐕 Pet Food: If you have pets, this is one thing you constantly need, and can consistently save on!

• 🍼 Diapers, Wipes, & Baby Formula: For parents, this is the perfect place to stock up on the essentials.

• ☕️ Coffee Beans: Those daily cups add up, even if you’re making coffee at home. Save even more by getting your coffee in bulk.

Steady Savers

• 🧀 Cheese, Bacon, & Chicken Stock: Classic staples for everyday savings.

• 🧻 Paper Goods: Hey… everyone needs toilet paper!

• 🍝 Pasta, Olive Oil, & Laundry Detergent: More staples to keep your pantry stocked for less.

Sneaky Money-Savers

• 💊 Allergy Meds & Vitamins: Costco’s generic options are often dramatically cheaper than name brands.

• 💧 Water Filters & HVAC Filters: Exactly the kind of purchase that quietly saves you money over time.

And let’s not forget about that legendary $1.50 hot dog combo. One a month covers your yearly membership fee (although whether you choose to indulge is up to you). And those jumbo pizzas for $10!? They beat takeout night prices every time.

A Costco membership doesn’t make sense for everyone, but if you can stick to your list and prioritize the staples, the savings can more than handle that annual fee for you. 🤑

TOGETHER WITH WEALTHRAMP*

Find Your Perfect Money Match 💰

Finding a great financial advisor is tough. Between sales-driven recommendations, confusing credentials, and endless Google searches, it’s tough to know who actually has your best interest at heart.

Wealthramp is changing that. Wealthramp is a free service that matches you with independent, fee-only fiduciary advisors based on your goals and situation. No commissions, no pressure, and no generic lists.

Instead of guessing, Wealthramp pairs you with a small, curated group of highly vetted advisors so you can compare options and choose the right fit with confidence.

Whether you’re curious about hiring an advisor for the first time or thinking about ditching your current lackluster advisor, Wealthramp takes the stress out of the process. Check out our full Wealthramp review here.

SAVINGS

Interest Rate Check! 🧐

Most Americans have a savings account. That’s a great start. But here’s a surprise: a lot of us aren’t totally sure how that money is growing once it’s in there.

In fact, surveys show many people know more about reality TV show drama than their own savings account. To be fair… the Real Housewives are very committed to their storylines.

Interest rates? Not quite as memorable, but arguably far more important.

Common Savings Myths:

• All savings accounts pay about the same: Not even close. Interest rates can vary wildly from bank to bank. Some accounts barely move the needle, while others actually help your money grow.

• You need a lot of money to earn a good rate: Nope. Most savings accounts pay the same rate no matter your balance. The account you choose matters far more than how much you have in it.

• Checking your rate won’t really make a difference: It actually can. Even small differences in interest rates can add up year after year, especially when you’re saving consistently.

What Kind of Savings Account Should You Have?

Not all savings accounts are built the same, and this is where high-yield savings accounts stand out. Many big-bank savings accounts pay very low interest and may come with monthly fees or balance requirements. If you’re with a bank that has a slew of brick-and-mortar branches, you can do much better.

High-yield savings accounts typically offer much higher rates and few (if any) fees, meaning more of your money stays yours and grows faster without any extra effort. Check out some of our favorite places to park your money, like Ally & CIT Bank.

A savings account isn’t just a parking spot for your money; it’s a tool. Knowing your interest rate, avoiding unnecessary fees, and treating savings like a monthly bill you pay to your future self can quietly make a big difference over time.

If you haven’t checked your savings account lately, this is your friendly nudge. Your money should be working just as hard as you are! ☝️

ICYMI!

Your Weekly Update…

The Mocktail Myth 🍹
Skipping cocktails for mocktails feels like a money win, but new research shows it saves just about $6 per night out on average. In some cities, it could take years for those savings to add up.

The 2026 Flight Playbook ✈️
Airfare may ease up a bit in 2026, but when you book matters just as much as where you’re going. This guide breaks down the best booking windows for spring break, summer trips, and the holidays so you don’t overpay.

Aldi Says: Discounts for Everyone! 🛒
Americans are flocking to Aldi for affordable groceries and smart private-label options, regardless of income level. This year, Aldi is planning on opening 180+ new stores — more savings incoming!

Enjoy your day and keep moving in the right direction. You got this!

Best friends out! 🍻