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.

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 American. Plus, what lessons can we take from history to improve our financial future?

Strap in for a fascinating discussion full of surprises, economic insights, and just a little bit of Kristen and Dame keeping Pete in check.

Listen now—because knowing history might just help your wallet today.

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.



Subscribe, leave a review, and stay tuned for more insightful (and weird) financial wisdom!

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.