10.26.26 Retirement Challenges / Best Value on Rx Eyewear

Re-Thinking Retirement: A Smarter Way To Phase Down & Best Places To Buy Eyeglasses

Retirement is supposed to be the ultimate reward after decades of hard work, but for many, the reality doesn’t match the expectation. Whether it’s financial pressure from inflation and living expenses or simply missing the routine, activity, and social connections of a job, going cold turkey from 40 hours a week to zero isn't working for everyone. Clark breaks down why traditional retirement might need a rethink and explains why he’s a huge fan of "phased retirement."

Also, Clark takes on the notoriously overpriced eyewear industry. From $800 price tags at big cartel chains down to $80 options for essentially the same pair, the price gap is staggering. We cover the latest findings on where to get the absolute best value on prescription glasses and contact lenses. Clark shares where you should – and should never – buy your next pair so you can strike the perfect balance between price, quality, and service.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the October 26, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.   

Tiered Retirement: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

Prescription Glasses & Contacts: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

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