Retailers, data brokers and ads, oh my!
Linda recently called my national radio show with a question that flooded my inbox. Clearly, a lot of you have experienced a similarly eerie moment.
I hear you: “Kim, her phone was listening!” The answer isn’t that simple, but I can explain what’s really going on.
How to land the best flight deals
Spring break is around the corner, and Sundays are the best day to book trips, so let’s talk travel hacks. My dad worked for United Airlines, so I grew up on airplanes. I’ve explored 38 countries (and counting!) with plenty more on my bucket list. Let’s get you the best deals!
Avoid these costly mistakes when sending money
You and a friend split some apps and cocktails. Cash? Nah, payment apps make it way easier. Type in the amount, hit send and boom, you’re set.
But every time you send money, there’s a risk it could end up in the wrong place. That’s why I’m here to help you get it to the right place. Let’s dive in.
Tech how-to: Check your phone for signs someone is watching
I get so many calls during my national radio show and DMs from folks who think they’re being stalked. Sometimes, the person is seeing signs that aren’t there. Other times, it’s clear there’s something going on. It’s not surprising, given how easy it is for tech to watch someone’s movements.
Tech myths: Streaming, AI, phone and computer ‘wisdom’ that isn’t
When it comes to tech myths, I’ve heard ‘em all. That’s why I’m here to help you keep a handle on what’s real and what’s not. Before we dive in, just a few reminders: Macs can get viruses, closing apps will not save battery life, and your smartphone’s memory doesn’t die after two years.
Small-biz tech advice: How to make more money
I’ve run a broadcast business for over 25 years. I joke I’m an overnight success, but the truth is it took a long time to get here. In the beginning, it was like any new small biz, shoved into a small, crappy workspace with bills piling up.
Data brokers are cashing in, but you can stop them
Everyone wants your Social Security number. Some requests are legit, like when you’re starting a new job, applying for a loan or verifying your identity.
But countless others, from data brokers to scammers, are after your nine-digit code, too. In fact, an estimated 2,400 data brokers operate in the U.S., collecting and selling billions of personal records, often without your knowledge. Some even offer “credit header data,” which includes Social Security numbers, for as little as $5 per record.
Got a side hustle? Watch out for this tax change
Every morning, I sit down with my amazing executive producer, Madi, to plan what tech tidbits I’m going to bring you in my national radio shows, podcasts and this newsletter. Today, she came in with a doozy.
Her boyfriend got an email with a tax form he wasn’t expecting. Last year, he made about $20,000 on eBay selling comics, some bikes and a few other things. Like most folks getting a 1099‑K for the first time, he has no idea just how much he’ll owe yet.
Hey! You look good
Ever wonder why some people just seem to glow with health? No, it’s not a filter or some secret Hollywood lighting trick. (OK, for some people it is.) But for the lucky ones, it’s what’s happening inside their body. And one of the biggest factors? Collagen.
AI how-to: 10 prompts to try with ChatGPT or your favorite bot
Twenty-five-odd years ago, CBS and ABC execs told me tech was just a fad and passed on my national radio show. So, I syndicated it myself. The rest is history.
Now, I hear the same thing about AI: It’s a phase, and it won’t last. Hate to break it to you, but AI is here to stay, and it’s already changing everything. Start using it now or risk getting left behind.