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. No wasted time. Just Pete, a mic, and a fresh perspective.

New episodes drop regularly—quick enough to fit into your coffee break, but impactful enough to change how you think about your money and future.

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 trends, this episode balances practical advice with engaging conversation.

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 humor, honesty, and insight.

But that’s not all—since it’s Valentine’s week, we’re diving into one of the biggest financial stressors in relationships: Love and Money.



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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 independence, the psychology of wealth-building, and why having enough money doesn’t always mean you should start using it. Is this couple making a smart move, or are they jeopardizing their long-term financial security? Plus, Pete shares insights from his son’s personal finance class, unexpected thoughts on hugging etiquette, and an inside look at changes coming to the show.

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 deductions and itemized deductions. Plus, Dame shares insider wisdom from his tax expert wife, even though she wasn’t invited to the show.

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!