You’re not crazy — your bank account is under attack. This week, Pete, Kristen, and Dame dive into the sneaky financial forces draining your money (and your patience), even as inflation cools on paper. From tipping screens on $4 coffees to subscriptions you forgot existed, it’s not just about how much things cost — it’s how cleverly they get you to pay for them. Pete explores the emotional toll of "death by a thousand charges," Dame unpacks the data behind financial creep, and Kristen delivers t...
Apr 25, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 348
Earnings season is here, and Wall Street is grading corporate America. But what do these earnings tell us about the economy you’re actually living in? In this episode, we break down the big surprises and what they mean for your money. We also unpack the latest trends in wage growth—and how inflation is still playing referee. Finally, Pete shares why “pay yourself first” isn’t just financial advice—it’s a financial life raft. This 10-minute CalmCast is your antidote to the noise. Market context, ...
Apr 24, 2025•11 min•Ep. 347
In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we shine a harsh but hilarious light on your financial ethics. Are you as honest with your money as you think you are? Or are you quietly fudging the rules when no one’s looking—except your credit card statement? Pete walks you through a self-evaluation that’s part confessional, part comedy, and fully necessary. From tipping habits to Netflix mooching, we’re asking the tough questions… so you don’t have to lie to yourself anymore. Grab your ego and let’s g...
Apr 23, 2025•6 min•Ep. 346
In today’s CalmCast, we break down the emotional zoo of the stock market—why bulls charge, bears retreat, and what it all means for your money. Then, we take a deeper look at the monthly Jobs Report—beyond the headlines—uncovering what it really tells us about the economy, interest rates, and your paycheck. Finally, we bring it home with a personal finance concept that deserves more airtime: Power Percentage—your monthly measure of financial momentum, and a surprisingly calming number in volatil...
Apr 22, 2025•11 min•Ep. 345
What if “not needing money” doesn’t mean being rich—but being free? In this episode of The Pete the Planner Show, we explore how the concept of not needing money evolves as you age. From the beautiful ignorance of childhood, to the messy middle of adulthood, all the way to the promised land of retirement—we unpack what it really means to live with financial freedom at every stage. You'll hear: Why not needing money as a kid doesn’t count (but it was nice, wasn’t it?) How adulthood tricks you int...
Apr 18, 2025•1 hr 12 min
In this episode of CalmCast, we unpack the emotional undercurrent of the economy—consumer confidence. With recent drops in sentiment reflecting rising anxiety over inflation, tariffs, and a potential recession, we explain what these confidence numbers really mean, and why they matter more than you might think. We’ll cover: The latest consumer confidence data—and why it’s signaling trouble How confidence impacts your spending, borrowing, and saving habits (even if you don’t realize it) A practica...
Apr 17, 2025•11 min
In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we flip the script on financial frustration. Pete explores why money problems aren’t detours—they’re the whole journey. From busted budgets to surprise bills, he breaks down how embracing financial challenges as problem-solving opportunities can actually build confidence, resilience, and control. It’s a witty, slightly snarky reminder that you're not failing—you’re learning to play the game.
Apr 16, 2025•5 min
Episode 3 – This Economic Shift Could Hit Your Job—and Your Budget Not every part of the economy reacts the same way to a crisis. Some sectors take the brunt of it. Others benefit. And understanding who’s winning and who’s losing can give you a better handle on what’s coming next—for the market and for your own finances. In this episode, we break down: How different sectors are reacting to the current wave of tariffs and inflation Why sector rotation—when investors shift money between industries...
Apr 15, 2025•11 min
You made the plan. You followed the plan. And then—life happened. This week, Pete dives into the all-too-common reality of financial plans getting sideswiped by market shifts, unexpected expenses, and economic curveballs. From this week’s inflation data to job market jitters, we explore how to stay calm, adapt, and keep moving forward when things don’t go according to plan. You’ll learn how to recalibrate your goals, avoid panic pivots, and build a financial life that bends without breaking. Bec...
Apr 11, 2025•1 hr 12 min
The stock market has been unpredictable lately—and the same can be said for your grocery bill. In this episode, we explain what’s behind all this volatility and how it’s tied to the real economy and your real life. We focus on two key themes: Market volatility – Why the market reacts so sharply to uncertainty, and what causes these swings in the first place. Supply chain disruptions – How current events, including new tariffs and global tensions, are making everyday goods more expensive. We’ll a...
Apr 10, 2025•11 min
The stock market just face-planted—and while your investments may be taking a nap, your financial habits don’t have to. In this episode of Storytime with Pete, Pete the Planner breaks down what to do right now to reset your spending, stop the bleeding, and build real resilience. We’re not talking theory. We’re talking real-life, practical stuff: – The single subscription to cancel today – A 7-day no-spend challenge that actually works – Grocery hacks to save $100 this week – Why budgeting isn’t ...
Apr 09, 2025•5 min
Series Premiere Welcome to the first episode of our new financial series, designed to help you make sense of what's happening in the market, the broader economy, and your personal finances. In this premiere, we tackle one of the most talked-about issues in the headlines right now: tariffs. You’ve likely noticed prices creeping up, but how much of that is due to trade policy? And are there other forces at play? In this episode: We break down how tariffs impact the market and your daily expenses W...
Apr 08, 2025•11 min
The market tanked yesterday. Investors panicked. Tariff talk is back. If you're feeling like now is definitely not the time to start investing, you're not alone. But what if that fear is actually holding you back? In this episode of The Pete the Planner Show, we tackle one of the most paralyzing money fears out there: investing. From yesterday’s market meltdown—fueled by President Trump's tariffs—to the emotional rollercoaster that keeps people on the sidelines, we break down why fear is normal…...
Apr 04, 2025•1 hr 17 min
Why does negotiation so often feel like you're lying with a handshake? In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dig into the insincerity baked into negotiation—and why it leaves you feeling like you need a shower and a moral realignment. Whether you're haggling over a salary or splitting a dinner bill, negotiation can quietly pit your values against your strategy. Pete unpacks the emotional hangover that follows, and why sometimes, what we call "negotiation" is really just a polite performance...
Apr 03, 2025•5 min
In this episode, I step into the role of President—yes, really—to deliver the kind of honest, empathetic, and clear-eyed explanation of tariffs I wish we heard more often. I explore the reasoning behind the Trump administration’s trade strategy, acknowledge the real economic pain many Americans are feeling, and make the case for why short-term sacrifice may be necessary for long-term strength. This isn’t about politics—it’s about leadership, communication, and treating people with respect, even ...
Apr 03, 2025•9 min
In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dive into the oddly satisfying yet financially devastating loop of wanting money so you can buy things—and then not having money because you bought things. Pete unpacks the emotional gymnastics we perform to justify purchases and why true financial freedom might be found in the power of not clicking “Buy Now.” Come for the irony, stay for the guac metaphor.
Apr 01, 2025•4 min
Is $100,000 a year really enough to live a stable, comfortable life? In this episode, Pete breaks down the harsh reality of six-figure income in 2025 — starting with what you actually take home after taxes, 401(k contributions, and healthcare. Spoiler: it’s not $100K. Then we build a real financial life around what’s left, covering retirement savings, housing, transportation, food, insurance, and everything else life throws at you. If you’ve ever asked, “Why do I still feel broke even though I m...
Mar 28, 2025•1 hr 14 min
In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dive into the tangled web of what it really means to "buy American"—especially in light of President Trump’s March 26 announcement of a 25% tariff on all imported cars and auto parts. It’s a bold move aimed at boosting U.S. manufacturing, but it begs the question: what actually counts as American-made anymore? Using the 2024 Cars.com American-Made Index as our roadmap, Pete uncovers some surprising truths—like why Honda might be more American than Chevy...
Mar 27, 2025•3 min
In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we unpack the financial mirage that is the tax refund. Sure, it feels like free money—but it's really your own cash making a dramatic return after spending a year with the IRS. Pete breaks down why getting a big refund isn’t a win, how it exposes flawed money management, and what you can do to turn that refund into a financial reset (instead of a regrettable shopping spree). It's funny, it's a little uncomfortable, and—most importantly—it'll change how you...
Mar 25, 2025•5 min
Economic mobility—the ability to move up the financial ladder—has long been a hallmark of the American Dream. But recent research suggests that for many, mobility is increasingly out of reach. In this episode, we’ll examine the determinants of economic mobility, explore why some individuals and families stay stagnant, and discuss realistic strategies for improving mobility at both a personal and policy level.
Mar 21, 2025•1 hr 9 min
Are we on the brink of a recession, or is this just another round of economic fear-mongering? In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we break down the recession debate, why everything feels expensive even if the economy is supposedly fine, and whether tariffs could push us over the edge. Plus, practical steps to recession-proof your finances—without panicking and buying gold bars. Tune in, stay informed, and maybe start brewing your own coffee.
Mar 18, 2025•7 min
Market downturns bring out the worst in investors—panic selling, emotional decisions, and a desperate need to ‘do something.’ But that’s exactly when a good financial advisor proves their worth. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on what advisors really do during turbulent times. From keeping clients from self-sabotage to executing tactical strategies like tax-loss harvesting and rebalancing, we break down why their value goes far beyond picking investments. Plus, why going it alone in a ...
Mar 14, 2025•1 hr 12 min
In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dive into the financial and emotional whirlwind of youth travel sports. What started as something I once mocked has now become my weekend reality—two-star hotels, overpriced tournament fees, and the ever-present pressure to “invest” in my kid’s future. But is it worth it? Can a reasonable person justify the expense? And what happens to the families who can’t afford it but do it anyway? Join me as we explore the absurdity, the financial lessons, and the ...
Mar 11, 2025•6 min
Your credit report might be controlling more of your life than you think. From loans and insurance rates to job opportunities and even renting an apartment, this silent score holds serious power. But is the system fair, or is it working against you? In this episode, Pete dives into the history, controversies, and hidden pitfalls of credit reports—plus what you can do to take back control. If you’ve ever wondered whether your credit report is helping or hurting you, this is the episode you don’t ...
Mar 07, 2025•1 hr 7 min
Exploring the good and the bad of tariffs. And yes, there's good.
Mar 04, 2025•6 min
Today, Pete, Kristen, and Dame take a deep dive into the best and worst economic periods in American history. Was the post-WWII boom really the golden age of prosperity, or is that just nostalgia talking? How does today’s economy stack up against past crises like the Great Depression, stagflation, and the Great Recession? We break down real numbers—GDP growth, wages, home affordability, and even the cost of healthcare and college—to see when life was truly the best (and worst) for the average Am...
Feb 28, 2025•1 hr 8 min
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is officially no more. Is this the long-overdue removal of a bureaucratic overreach, or the beginning of a new era of financial chaos? In today’s episode of Storytime with Pete, we break down what the CFPB’s closure means for banks, businesses, and, most importantly, your wallet. Will fewer regulations lead to more financial freedom, or just more fine print and hidden fees? Let’s find out.
Feb 25, 2025•5 min
A new series -- Storytime with Pete. Pete the Planner delivers sharp, insightful, and sometimes provocative takes on the financial world and beyond—all in under five minutes. These short-form episodes are high-energy, opinionated, and straight to the point, blending Pete’s signature wit with hard-hitting truths about money, business, and life. Whether he’s breaking down economic trends, calling out financial nonsense, or offering no-nonsense advice, Pete keeps it real and relevant. No fluff. No ...
Feb 19, 2025•5 min
In this episode of The Pete the Planner Show, Pete, Kristen, and Dane dive into a mix of financial wisdom, everyday observations, and entertaining tangents. Pete kicks things off by discussing an unexpected fashion moment inspired by a mannequin outfit. From there, the team transitions into personal finance topics, breaking down money management strategies with a relatable and humorous approach. Whether it's navigating spending habits, financial planning, or reacting to real-world economic trend...
Feb 18, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Big Changes for The Pete the Planner Show! Plus, Love and Money We’re kicking things off with a major update—The Pete the Planner Show is now part of the IBJ Media Podcast Network! If you're a longtime listener, welcome back. If you’re new, get ready for a personal finance show that’s anything but ordinary. In this episode, Pete, Kristen Ahlenius, and Damian Dunn talk about the evolution of the show, what this new partnership means, and the core mission of helping people navigate money with humo...
Feb 14, 2025•1 hr 3 min
