Episodes

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.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Exploring the good and the bad of tariffs. And yes, there's good.

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 A...

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.

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. N...

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...

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 hu...

In this episode of The Pete the Planner Show, Pete, Dame, and Kristen tackle a listener’s question about using a taxable brokerage account to supplement income before retirement. A high-earning couple with no debt and significant savings wonders if they should ease off their high-paying IT jobs and start tapping their investments. Pete isn’t buying it—he challenges whether they’re taking the easy way out rather than making a sustainable career shift. The conversation dives into financial indepe...

Tax season is upon us, and The Pete the Planner Show is here to guide you through it with The 2025 SpecTAXular! Pete, Dame, and Kristen dive deep into everything you need to know about taxes—what your accountant really wishes you knew, how to avoid common tax season pitfalls, and the ultimate debate: Is it better to owe or get a refund? They also tackle listener questions, bust common tax myths (hint: there’s no such thing as a “write-off”), and break down the difference between standard deduct...

On this week's episode, Kristen, Dame, and Pete debate the utility of target date funds. Disagreement abounds.

On this week's episode, Kristen, Dame, and Pete debate whether or not an emailer should breakup with their advisor. We talk fees, communication, and underperformance.

On this week's episode, Kristen, Dame and Pete pick their stocks for 2025. As always, the stock picks are for entertainment purposes only.

Pete and Kristen wrap the year!

On this week's episode, Dame, Kristen, and Pete discuss terrible housing advice which would leave you stressed, broke, and working forever.

On this week's episode, the crew is joined by crypto enthusiast Doug Collins to talk about Bitcoin cresting $100k/coin

On this week's episode Dame and Pete talk about how easy it is to get behind on home projects.

On this week's episode, Kristen, Dame, and Pete talk about what you should discuss with your partner before you combine finances.

Don't worry, we don't get into the politics. Numbers only this week.

On this week's episode, Kristen, Dame, and Pete answer an email regarding financial infidelity. Let's just say they didn't like the ground rules.

On this week's episode we discuss whether or not everyone really needs a financial planner.

On this week's episode, Kristen, Dame, and Pete discuss they whys and why-nots of 15 year mortgages.