The Pete the Planner® Show

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EMERGENCY EPISODE -- If I Were President Trump: What I’d Say About Tariffs Apr 03, 2025

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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 when the news is tough.

Storytime with Pete: The Juxtaposition of Modern Consumption Apr 01, 2025

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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.

What Can You Afford on $100k a year? The Honest Breakdown Mar 28, 2025

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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 make six figures?” — this one’s for you.

This is the first in a new series where we build complete financial lives around real household incomes. Coming up:

How to make $70,000 feel like stability
What life looks like at $50,000 a year
Why $200K doesn’t guarantee wealth
And what true financial peace looks like at any income

Subscribe now — and let’s build a life that actually works.

Storytime with Pete: What is an American Car? Mar 27, 2025

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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, and how Tesla quietly dominates the list. If you’ve ever proudly bought a “domestic” vehicle, this one’s for you.

Let’s hit the gas on the truth behind those red, white, and blue bumpers.

Storytime with Pete: The bittersweet tax refund Mar 25, 2025

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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 think about your next refund check.

Trapped at the Bottom: The Science Behind Staying Broke Mar 21, 2025

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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.

Storytime with Pete: The Recession Obsession Mar 18, 2025

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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.

Panic is Expensive -- Calm Down Mar 14, 2025

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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 volatile market could be the most expensive mistake you ever make. If you've ever questioned whether an advisor is worth it, this episode is for you.

Storytime with Pete: Youth travel sports Mar 11, 2025

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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 delicate balance between passion and practicality in the world of elite youth sports.

Credit Scores: The Silent Score Controlling Your Life Mar 07, 2025

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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 want to miss.

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