01.09.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / The Future Of Auto Insurance - The Clark Howard Podcast Recap
Podcast: The Clark Howard Podcast
Published: 2026-01-09
Duration: 37 minutes
Summary
Clark Howard addresses criticisms from listeners and discusses potential positive trends in auto insurance, hinting at possible cost reductions in the future.
What Happened
Clark Howard opens the episode by addressing a deepfake video of him endorsing an auto insurance comparison site, which was entirely fabricated. He emphasizes that he has never done endorsements, warning listeners to be cautious of misleading content online.
The 'Clark Stinks' segment follows, where Clark responds to listener feedback. One listener criticizes his use of the term 'scamsters', arguing it trivializes the seriousness of scammers. Clark explains that he intended to combine 'scammer' and 'gangster' to emphasize their criminality but acknowledges the feedback.
Another listener points out a possible inconsistency in Clark's advice about purchasing Certificates of Deposit (CDs), suggesting bank rates can sometimes be better than brokerage rates. Clark clarifies that while brokerage rates are often better, there are exceptions, and recommends checking multiple sources.
Clark defends his position on rental cars versus using personal vehicles for long trips, explaining that while not always cheaper, renting can save on depreciation and wear, especially as rental rates are dropping. He notes personal experience with rental cars costing less than expected through deals like those on Costco Travel.
In the final segment, Clark discusses the future of auto insurance. He notes that after a period of sharp increases, insurance costs may stabilize or decrease. Factors like the rising use of self-driving technology could significantly reduce accident rates, leading to lower premiums.
Clark mentions Lemonade's partnership with Tesla to offer almost free insurance rates for self-driving miles, illustrating how automation can reduce costs. He encourages listeners to shop around for better insurance rates as the market evolves.
Key Insights
- Deepfake technology has been used to create a video falsely endorsing an auto insurance comparison site, highlighting the need for vigilance against misleading online content.
- Rental car rates are decreasing, and using a rental for long trips can mitigate depreciation and wear on personal vehicles, with deals available through platforms like Costco Travel.
- Auto insurance costs, which have seen sharp increases, may stabilize or decrease as self-driving technology reduces accident rates, potentially leading to lower premiums.
- Lemonade has partnered with Tesla to offer nearly free insurance rates for self-driving miles, demonstrating how automation can significantly cut insurance costs.