Smart Strategies to Lower Your Car Payments

The Expert Podcast

#Entrepreneur #Business #David Pelligrinelli #Expert Consult #Professional Consultants #Economics #Car Buying #Private Investigator #Cybersecurity

39:50

The truth is out West! We’re hopping on the ET Highway and venturing to the most notorious alien hot spots, including Roswell’s infamous crash site, Area 51’s eerie perimeter, and a mysterious desert watchtower. Join us as journalist Laura Krantz, host of the podcast Wild Thing , beams up to share stories from the front lines of UFO reporting—from strange sightings and quirky festivals to a mailbox where people leave letters to extraterrestrials. Maybe you’ll even decide for yourself: Is Earth a tourist stop for spaceships? UFO hot spots you’ll encounter in this episode: - UFO Watchtower (near Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado) - Roswell, New Mexico - Area 51, Nevada - Extraterrestrial Highway (aka State Route 375), Nevada - Little A’Le’Inn, ET Highway, Nevada - E.T. Fresh Jerky, ET Highway, Nevada - Alien Research Center, ET Highway, Nevada - The Black Mailbox, ET Highway, Nevada Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group .…

about a year ago 4:07

MP3•Episode home

Recent News:

A USA Today article reports that people owe more than ever on upside-down car loans
Negative equity in car loans is increasing—some reaching $7,000 or more
1 in 4 trade-ins are underwater, making it harder for buyers to switch vehicles

How This Affects You:

If you have a high car loan balance or negative equity, you’re not alone
Rolling negative equity into a new loan increases total debt
Large monthly car payments ($700–$900) can be overwhelming

Solutions:

Car Short Sale:
- A structured process where your lienholder may accept a lower sale value
- Helps clear loan balance and free up your title
- Different from voluntary repossession, which can negatively impact credit
- Each lender has different requirements for approval
Expert Consultation Available:
- One-on-one guidance with licensed professionals
- Expertise in auto finance, insurance, legal matters, and business development
Final Thoughts:
- Explore car short sales if you’re struggling with a high car payment
- Consider a vehicle that better fits your budget
- For more insights, visit ActualHuman.com and Describe.TV
- Have questions? Drop them in the comments or book a consultation with an expert

Thanks for listening!

1906 episodes

Smart Strategies to Lower Your Car Payments

The Expert Podcast

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Recent News:

A USA Today article reports that people owe more than ever on upside-down car loans
Negative equity in car loans is increasing—some reaching $7,000 or more
1 in 4 trade-ins are underwater, making it harder for buyers to switch vehicles

How This Affects You:

If you have a high car loan balance or negative equity, you’re not alone
Rolling negative equity into a new loan increases total debt
Large monthly car payments ($700–$900) can be overwhelming

Solutions:

Car Short Sale:
- A structured process where your lienholder may accept a lower sale value
- Helps clear loan balance and free up your title
- Different from voluntary repossession, which can negatively impact credit
- Each lender has different requirements for approval
Expert Consultation Available:
- One-on-one guidance with licensed professionals
- Expertise in auto finance, insurance, legal matters, and business development
Final Thoughts:
- Explore car short sales if you’re struggling with a high car payment
- Consider a vehicle that better fits your budget
- For more insights, visit ActualHuman.com and Describe.TV
- Have questions? Drop them in the comments or book a consultation with an expert

Thanks for listening!

1906 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #David Pelligrinelli #Expert Consult #Professional Consultants #Economics #Car Buying #Private Investigator #Cybersecurity

Alle episoder

1
Unlocking the Black Box: Downloading Hidden Vehicle Electronic Data 3:23

13 hours ago3:23

3:23

Episode Show Notes: Unlocking the Black Box: Downloading Hidden Vehicle Electronic Data What is telematics? Simply put, it’s the technology in your vehicle that connects your infotainment system, Bluetooth, cruise control, door locks, and more into a data system. You don’t need to understand the word itself, just what it does — it makes all this vehicle tech accessible as digital evidence. Law enforcement and vehicle data: Police can extract data from over 10,000 different car infotainment systems. This data can reveal detailed information after a crash, including brake usage, door lock status, seatbelt engagement, and even whether you were texting or browsing the internet through your car’s Wi-Fi. What kind of data is stored in your vehicle? Apps like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connect to your car, storing contacts, history, and more. The car records operations such as remote start, gear position, speed — essentially acting as a black box similar to those in airplanes. Usage beyond law enforcement: Private investigations also use vehicle data, often through subpoenas or direct downloads. Vehicle owners sometimes request data from cars driven by spouses, colleagues, or relatives to know where the car went or if someone else was riding inside. Passenger detection and other details: The vehicle can detect if someone was sitting in the passenger seat by monitoring airbag sensors. It can log door openings/closings, whether the engine was running when the door opened, if doors were left unlocked, and even what radio stations were playing. Cellular connectivity in vehicles: Many vehicles have their own cellular devices (like OnStar) that ping cell towers independently of your phone. This means your car tracks location data and communications separately and permanently. Why this matters: Vehicle technology today can hold as much or more data than your smartphone. Unlike your phone, you can’t carry your car’s data with you — it stays in the vehicle and can be downloaded by anyone with access.…

1
Desperate Buyers, Reluctant Sellers: Why the Market Feels So One-Sided 7:30

13 hours ago7:30

7:30

📌 Episode Show Notes: Many homebuyers are waiting for prices and interest rates to drop, expecting the market to return to 2018 or 2019 levels. Buyers have been conditioned to think that home prices and interest rates should return to what they once were. Sellers, on the other hand, are also imprinted with past values—specifically, the high prices during 2020–2022. Most current homeowners are not under financial distress and have no urgent need to sell. Stringent mortgage underwriting over the past 10 years means most homeowners are stable, with equity and low interest rates. Homeowners remember neighbors selling for high prices and are unwilling to “give away” their homes for less. Buyers are more desperate than sellers due to rising rents, lack of equity, and fear of being priced out. Selling a home doesn’t always make financial sense—especially if it means renting at a similar or higher monthly cost. Even during major events like the pandemic and rate hikes, a real estate crash never occurred. Home prices may not be rising as quickly, but they also aren’t dropping significantly. Many sellers are pulling listings off the market because they don’t need to sell and don’t want to buy again at inflated prices. The mismatch between desperate buyers and reluctant sellers is a major reason home prices remain elevated. Expect fewer desperate sellers and a consistently strong demand from frustrated renters and first-time homebuyers.…

1
Why You Don’t Need a Private Investigator: Secrets You Can Uncover Yourself 5:22

13 hours ago5:22

5:22

🔍 Episode Description: In this episode, we explore whether you still need to hire a private investigator—or if you can do most of the work yourself online. If you're involved in any kind of legal case (divorce, probate, fraud, or due diligence), this one's for you. 📌 Key Takeaways: ✅ 90% of cases that used to require a private investigator no longer do. 🕵️‍♂️ Investigations from the 1970s–1990s are now often obsolete due to the internet. 🌐 Tools like Google and social media make it easy to: Run background checks Search for assets Find bank accounts, real estate, and vehicles Discover business involvement and personal activities 📸 Social media “stalking” can reveal location history, habits, and photos. 🧠 Most private investigation tasks are now DIY-friendly if you're willing to invest time (typically 14–20 hours of research). 💸 Hiring an investigator is more about convenience today than necessity. 📎 When You Still Might Need a Licensed PI: 🏛️ Court-Admissible Evidence : Courts may require certified or third-party verified evidence. 🔍 Surveillance : DIY surveillance can cross into harassment or stalking. A PI knows legal boundaries. 🔒 Restricted Access Information : Certain forms or government databases only release data to licensed investigators. 🧾 Official Requests : Some legal processes or subpoenaed info might still require licensed access. 🛠️ DIY Tools and Support Available: Free online tutorials and guides Our website offers: Resources Consultations Training for civilian investigators 💡 Bottom Line: In most cases, you can perform your own investigation with online tools—saving time and money. But in specific legal situations, hiring a pro still makes sense.…

1
Scam Refund Limits: How Much Can You Legally Recover? 4:14

1 day ago4:14

4:14

Episode Show Notes / Description: What can you realistically recover if you’ve lost money in an online scam, cryptocurrency scam, or investment scam? Understanding the legal limitations on how much you can get back after sending money to a fraudulent company or person. Insights from an article by Shepard Mullen Richter and Hampton law firm (note: we are not attorneys and not giving legal advice). Explanation of how courts define “loss” in fraud cases — and why this definition tends to favor the scammers (defendants). Example scenario: You send $10,000 to an online investment scam promising profit. The scam shows your account “grew” to $18,000, then $52,000, asking for more money. When you realize it’s a scam and want your money back, how much loss counts? Court ruling summary: Loss only includes the actual money sent — not the fake inflated account balances shown. Loss does NOT include what you might have earned if you invested the money elsewhere (no “opportunity cost”). The impact of this loss definition on sentencing criminals: Punishment is based on the actual amount stolen, not on any inflated statements or paper gains. Key takeaway for scam victims: You can typically only recover what you actually sent, not what the scam promised or showed on fake statements. An exception example: Sixth Circuit ruling on gift card fraud where a minimum loss amount applies regardless of actual harm. How this legal interpretation affects prosecutors’ ability to use conspiracy charges as a stronger tool in fraud cases. Final advice: When calculating your losses from online scams, only count the actual money you sent, not any fake profits or statements shown by scammers.…

1
Crypto Scams: Is the Hype Fading or Just Evolving? 3:06

1 day ago3:06

3:06

In This Episode: 💥 Breakdown of the FTX crypto conglomerate collapse and what it means. 🚨 How scammers used the crypto hype—not actual investing—to trick victims. 📱 Common tactics: Scams via Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms promising to double your money. 🌍 Many scammers operate overseas and disappear after collecting funds. 💸 Real-life cases from victims who lost anywhere from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars. 🏠 One tragic case: A victim took a second mortgage and borrowed from relatives, only to be scammed out of everything. 🔍 Distinction between actual crypto platforms and scammers who just exploit the buzz. 🙏 Hope that the FTX collapse will serve as a wake-up call and slow down the spread of digital currency scams. 📩 Reminder: Even small amounts—$10K to $12K—can be everything someone has. Takeaway: Be cautious. If someone promises to double your money, especially online or through social media, it's likely a scam. The hype around digital currency is being used to exploit everyday people. Stay informed, and don’t fall victim.…

1
Behind the Firewall: How Private Investigators Legally Access Private Information 5:35

1 day ago5:35

5:35

🔍 In this episode, we unpack a real-life case involving the Mayor of Reno, Nevada , a private investigator , and illegal surveillance . If you're ever thinking about hiring a PI, this is a must-listen. 🧠 Key Takeaways: Illegal PI Tactics : The mayor discovered a tracking device on her vehicle during routine service. Device Traced : Investigation revealed the device was linked to a private investigative agency . Lawsuit Filed : The mayor is suing for: Invasion of privacy Trespassing Civil conspiracy Negligence Unidentified Client : The PI was reportedly working for a mystery third party , whose identity may soon be revealed in court. Legal Consequences : Placing tracking devices is illegal in most cases. Even clients can be held liable if they knowingly request illegal surveillance. Ethical Red Flags : "I don’t want to know how you get it" is not a legal defense. Investigators and clients both face risks if boundaries are crossed. Past Example : Reference to a Hewlett Packard case in the 90s where illegal phone hacking by hired investigators led to corporate liability and criminal charges . Your Responsibility as a Client : Know what's legal and what’s not. Don’t assume you’re protected if a third party does the dirty work. Legal Alternatives : There are often legal ways to obtain the same data. Example: Searching the cloud or public records instead of hacking a phone or computer. Ethical Investigators Matter : Always hire licensed professionals who operate within the law . Make sure their methods won't backfire on you.…

1
Scammed? Here’s How to Get 100% of Your Money Back! 3:31

1 day ago3:31

3:31

Podcast Episode Show Notes / Description: End of 2022 saw major developments in large-scale Ponzi schemes and scams, with FTX as a notable example alongside others. We've often discussed how victims can recover money from scams—even if the scammer spent or lost all the principal—by pursuing third parties involved. This episode highlights a recent case where investors won the right to recover funds from a bank tied to a customer's Ponzi scheme. The customer ran a Ponzi scheme using an account at Umpqua Bank, which was unaware of the fraud but failed in proper account management. Due to the bank’s inadequate due diligence and oversight, it may now be liable for paying back victims, despite the scammer’s misappropriation of funds. Investigations often focus on third parties with potential liability, including banks, accountants, attorneys, sales companies, and advertisers. In this case, investors lost $300 million in a Ponzi scheme linked to a depositor of Umpqua Bank. A U.S. District Judge denied the bank’s motion to be excluded from the case and certified it as a class action, allowing all investors to join together. Investors claim the bank “aided and abetted” the scam by enabling the scammer’s account without sufficient fraud detection. The bank’s own fraud detection software issued 146 alerts on suspicious activity tied to the scam company at the Nevada branch, indicating the bank had advance knowledge. Likely, no one at the bank properly investigated or acted on these alerts, which allowed the scam to grow. If you are a victim of fraud or Ponzi schemes and the scammer is unreachable or insolvent, third party liability may be your best chance at recovery. Insurance companies or other third parties sometimes have liability coverage to pay investors’ claims. While not legal advice, investigations frequently find third party sources as a route to help victims recover lost funds when scammers cannot pay back. In this example, Umpqua Bank’s potential liability could help make investors whole again.…

1
Too Complicated for Mediation? When to Settle and When to Fight 2:31

1 day ago2:31

2:31

🎙️ Podcast Episode 🔹 Many clients ask: "Is my case too complex for mediation?" 🔹 Example case: A deadly hotel fire in Las Vegas that resulted in 15 deaths. 🔹 15 lawsuits were filed after the fire. 🔹 20 defendants involved — including the building owner and various companies. 🔹 Despite the complexity, the case is being resolved through mediation. 🔹 Parties have gone through multiple rounds of mediation . 🔹 A resolution is expected in the coming weeks. 💡 Why Mediation Works — Even for Complex Cases: 🔹 Going to court with dozens of plaintiffs and defendants could take a decade . 🔹 Legal fees and court delays can drain time and money. 🔹 Plaintiffs or defendants may pass away, disappear, or go out of business during a long trial. 🔹 Mediation can: Be completed in a few years (even for complex cases) Be faster and more efficient Save money on legal costs Provide more control over the process ⚖️ Mediation vs. Court: 🔹 Court : Bound by the court calendar and backlogs. 🔹 Mediation : Can be scheduled in the private sector at a much faster pace. 🔹 Mediation is voluntary — you can reject the outcome and still pursue litigation. 🔹 In court, once a judge rules, you must comply with the decision. 📝 Final Thought: 🔹 Mediation is not just for simple cases like divorce or small claims. 🔹 It can absolutely handle even the most complicated disputes — like a deadly fire involving multiple lawsuits and dozens of parties.…

1
Hidden Trails: Where to Find Money After a Scam or Fraud 5:23

1 day ago5:23

5:23

🔍 Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the options available to victims of fraud, scams, or Ponzi schemes—especially when the scammer no longer holds your money. Using insights from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Asset Forfeiture Guide, we look at real-world examples and explain how victims may still be able to recover funds. 📝 Key Takeaways: What happens if a scammer no longer has your money after a fraud or crypto scam? Introduction to the U.S. Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Guide Understanding Criminal Forfeiture under 21 U.S. Code § 853: Property derived from scam proceeds can be forfeited. Assets used in the commission of the fraud (e.g., office space) may also be subject to forfeiture. Third-party transfers : Assets transferred to another person or company may be taken back unless they were obtained in good faith and for a legitimate reason. Example: Scott Rothstein case in Florida where a watch company had to return funds received from fraud proceeds. Substitute Assets : If the scammer has already spent the stolen money, the government can seize other assets of equal value—like a house or car—even if those were not directly tied to the scam. Civil Forfeiture possibilities: The government may seize raw materials, equipment, vehicles, or other assets used to carry out or conceal the scam. Multiple recovery options: Victims may recover through civil or criminal actions. Includes claims on third-party assets, substitution of lost funds, and seizure of fraud-related resources. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice . Please consult with a qualified attorney for legal support specific to your case.…

1
Waiting on Wheels: How Long Does a Vermont Title Really Take? 4:58

1 day ago4:58

4:58

🔍 In This Episode: Learn how the Vermont bill of sale process works for vehicles 15 years old and older (2008 or earlier). Understand how to get a valid Vermont registration without needing: Prior title Prior owner Discover how to use that Vermont registration to get a title in your own state. 📬 Vermont Processing Timeline: Vermont DMV typically processes properly prepared paperwork in 7–10 business days . After receiving the Vermont registration, you can apply for a title in your state. 🏢 Title Issuance by State: Most state DMVs issue titles instantly in person . Some DMV branches may mail the title (especially smaller or satellite offices). Mailing in your application to your state DMV usually takes 4–5 days . ⚠️ Common Delays & Mistakes: Handwritten or messy paperwork can trigger manual review delays of 3–4 weeks. Incorrect paperwork will be rejected and sent back. Avoid errors by following correct formatting (typed, not handwritten). ✅ Tips for Faster Processing: Ensure all forms are filled out correctly and typed. Use the correct Vermont DMV forms: VD-119 (Registration Application) VT-010 (VIN Verification), if required Watch our updated instructional videos on how to properly complete the forms. Avoid Vermont’s online application , as it only provides a temporary registration and causes delays. Mail the paperwork to the correct address (details available on our website). 🎥 Watch Next: Step-by-step guide to filling out VD-119 and VT-010 forms (available on our channel).…

1
Inside Lienholder Policies: Unlocking Vehicle Title Asset Recovery 1:38

1 day ago1:38

1:38

In this episode, we dive into the growing pressure on automotive lenders and what it means for borrowers. If you’re behind on your car loan or dealing with a lien, this is a must-listen. 🔹 Lenders are stepping up recovery efforts Some lenders are ramping up tactics to recover money from defaulted automotive loans. 🔹 Wells Fargo Automotive offering repo incentives $500 per vehicle is being offered to repossession agencies to prioritize recovery. This move is driven by a nationwide shortage of repo personnel. 🔹 “Bounties” being placed on vehicles Due to the shortage of repo workers, some banks are putting vehicles with liens at the top of the list by offering cash incentives. 🔹 Opportunity for negotiation If your vehicle is in default, you may have leverage. Lenders may prefer to negotiate lien releases for cash instead of going through the expensive repo process. 🔹 Repossession costs are rising Lenders spend thousands to repossess, transport, and auction a vehicle. These rising costs can lead lenders to consider settlements even with new or subsequent owners.…

1
Wrecked and Resurrected: The Hidden Comeback of Certificate of Destruction Cars 4:38

1 day ago4:38

4:38

🎙️ Episode Show Notes: After Hurricane Ian and other tropical storms in Florida, there's been a surge in vehicles with prior damage claims. Many of these vehicles are being sold with a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) . Florida uses the term "Certificate of Destruction" while other states may use terms like: Non-repairable Junk Parts Only A recent case involved a buyer unknowingly purchasing 14 vehicles, all with a Certificate of Destruction. ❗ What is a Certificate of Destruction? It is not a title , even though it may look similar. It is a legal document issued by a government agency declaring the vehicle unfit for road use . Its purpose is to authorize only the dismantling or destruction of the vehicle. 📜 Florida Statutes Overview: If specific conditions are met, the Department must declare the vehicle unrebuildable. Any attempt to sell, transport, or deliver such a vehicle without proper notification may result in a third-degree felony . No title recovery process applies once a CoD has been issued — no legal workaround exists. 🛑 Why Do Insurance Companies Use a CoD? Even if the vehicle seems in good condition, hidden or future damage (e.g., rusted brake lines, faulty airbag sensors) can lead to serious safety risks . If an accident happens later due to such hidden damage, insurance companies may be held liable. To limit liability , they issue a CoD to ensure the vehicle never goes back on the road. ⚠️ Buyer Beware: Hundreds of these vehicles are appearing at auctions like Copart and IAA . Flood vehicles may appear visually fine but can contain: Mold/mildew odors Stained or soggy carpets Corroded internal components These cars cannot be titled or registered in any U.S. state — the CoD status is shared across states. ✅ Final Reminder: Always verify the status of a vehicle before purchase. Visit our website for more tips and resources to avoid getting stuck with a Certificate of Destruction vehicle.…

1
Vermont Project Cars: What’s the Tax on Your Title? 12:07

1 day ago12:07

12:07

Episode Show Notes: We address two of the most frequently asked questions about the Vermont registration bill of sale process for vehicles: Can you use this process if your vehicle is a shell, not roadworthy, or in parts? How much tax do you have to pay, and can you reduce that amount? Do you pay tax based on the purchase price or the vehicle’s condition? Important reminder: The Vermont bill of sale process is only one of 10 different ways to get a vehicle title. Many people try to use this Vermont “loophole” thinking it’s an easy or sneaky way to get a title. In many cases, other methods are cheaper, faster, and more direct with your state DMV. Vehicle Condition & Vermont VD119 Form: The official Vermont VD119 form must be filled out carefully (typing recommended). You must sign in ink, certifying under penalty of perjury that the vehicle is “properly equipped” and in “good mechanical condition.” If the vehicle is a shell, in parts, not running, or unsafe, it cannot be registered using this process. Vermont DMV may reject the application or require inspections if the vehicle condition is questionable. Liability insurance is required at the time of registration. About Taxes: Vermont sales/use tax is due at registration, based on the greater of: The purchase price you paid for the vehicle The NADA clean trade-in value (or other accepted vehicle valuation books) If you paid less than the book value (e.g., bought a car for $500 but the book value is $10,000), tax is calculated on the higher amount. There are multiple vehicle valuation books Vermont may accept; sometimes using a different book can lower your taxable value. You can claim a tax credit if you already paid sales tax in another jurisdiction; if that tax was less than Vermont’s, you pay the difference. Vehicle Appraisal for Tax Reduction: You may submit a Vermont dealer appraisal form to argue for a lower taxable value if the vehicle’s condition is poor. Appraisals must be done by licensed appraisers accepted by Vermont DMV — family or casual appraisers are not sufficient. The cost of an appraisal might outweigh the tax savings unless the difference is significant. Example: High-value, damaged imported cars might benefit from a professional appraisal to reduce taxes. Key Takeaways: Your vehicle must be properly equipped and in good mechanical condition to qualify. You pay tax based on the greater of your purchase price or an accepted vehicle value. Vermont registration does not grant a title for vehicles 2007 or newer; only registration. Other title acquisition methods might be more suitable for project cars or shells. Final advice: Don’t try to fill out the form blindly — many applications get rejected or canceled due to errors. Watch the official instructional videos before submitting your application. We offer title consulting and guidance if needed. Contact us or visit cartitles.com for more info. We welcome your questions and feedback — leave comments and we might cover them in future episodes!…

1
CarTitles.com vs. The Gavel: What Really Happened on The People's Court? 4:48

1 day ago4:48

4:48

Episode Show Notes: Did you catch our appearance on People’s Court ? The case involved a buyer who purchased a vehicle but never received the title—only a receipt or bill of sale. The buyer hired us to handle the paperwork to get the title. What we discovered after researching the vehicle: The seller provided a fake VIN number on the paperwork. The actual vehicle’s VIN had allegedly been altered. There was an existing lien on the vehicle from a bank. The case went to People’s Court , where: Our paperwork and DMV application were presented as evidence. The judge found the seller liable for selling a car with a lien and falsified VIN. The judge strongly condemned the defendant’s actions. Key lessons from this case: Always get proper documentation when buying a vehicle. Obtain a copy of the seller’s ID to help verify their identity. Be aware that some vehicles are ineligible for titles (e.g., vehicles with liens, stolen cars, or “parts only” titles). Performing due diligence is critical. About our company’s involvement: We provide title consulting services—check our website for more info. The People’s Court episode aired in multiple time zones and channels, which caused spikes in our website traffic as viewers searched for help. We stay in communication with producers for future collaborations on vehicle record cases. Important warnings: Buying a car without a title is risky; you may never get a title despite paperwork. The price discount on a no-title vehicle is often not worth the risk of losing your money. If you already bought a vehicle without a title, contact us for help—but know some cars cannot be legally titled. Final advice: Until you secure a title, your money is at risk. Avoid buying vehicles without titles whenever possible. Protect yourself with proper documentation and professional title consulting.…

1
Who Can Really Request a Duplicate Car Title? Know the Law Before You File 2:51

1 day ago2:51