Animal Spirits Podcast

Animal Spirits Podcast

The Compound

Animal Spirits is a show about markets, life, and investing. Join Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson as they talk about what they're reading, writing, listening to and watching. Look for new episodes every Wednesday morning. See our disclosures here - https://ritholtzwealth.com/podcast-youtube-disclosures/

Time to Get Bearish? (EP.401)

Time to Get Bearish? (EP.401)

On episode 401 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the potential for an economic slowdown, Steve Cohen gets bearish, the labor market is slowing, giving the US economy the benefit of the doubt, the top 10% owns everything, rich people are everywhere these days, Berkshire Hathaway pays a lot of taxes, Robinhood is a casino and much more.This episode is sponsored by Betterment. Grow your RIA your way: https://www.betterment.com/advisorsSign up for The Compound news

Feb 26, • 52:21

Talk Your Book: State of The Real Estate Market

Talk Your Book: State of The Real Estate Market

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Paul Baiocchi, Chief ETF Strategist of SS&C ALPS Advisors and Nick Tannura, Portfolio Manager and CIO of GSI Capital Advisors to discuss an update on office real estate, how investors view REITs, the fundamental argument for investing in malls, why it makes sense to actively manage REITs, an update on flows into the real estate asset class, and much more!Find complete show notes on our b

Feb 24, • 36:30

Life and Death (EP.400)

Life and Death (EP.400)

On episode 400 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Jon Carlson's story, dealing with grief, why financial planning matters, Jon's life advice, the power of kindness and the mundane, gambler's fallacy on Meta, the mental freedom of index funds, YouTube's reach, Mr. Belding's age, how to save money at Disney and much more.This episode is sponsored by YCharts and Kraneshares.Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free trial th

Feb 19, • 56:51

Talk Your Book: A Short History of the Nasdaq 100

Talk Your Book: A Short History of the Nasdaq 100

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Emily Spurling, SVP, Global Head of Index at Nasdaq and Mark Marex, Senior Director of Index and Research and Development to discuss the original inception of the Nasdaq 100, understanding tech exposure within the Nasdaq 100, why Nasdaq is winning the listing race, why companies enter and exit the index, thinking about the dot com bubble and the Nasdaq 100, and much more!Find complete show n

Feb 17, • 30:59

Is $1 Million a Lot of Money? (EP.399)

Is $1 Million a Lot of Money? (EP.399)

On episode 399 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the shrinking number of small businesses, the stock market chart of the decade, why excess capital investment in technology leads to booms/busts, the tech sector will lead to the next financial crisis, making the case for European stocks, baby boomers still rule the day, the relentless bid from 401k investors, timing the housing market, $1.2 million in credit card debt and much more.This episode is sponsored by P

Feb 12, • 1:08:32

Talk Your Book: How to Eliminate Negative Alpha

Talk Your Book: How to Eliminate Negative Alpha

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Cole Wilcox, Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Longboard Asset Management to discuss if trend following still works for stocks, how to set the expectations for investors using trend following, positioning alts within a portfolio, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an

Feb 10, • 37:45

The Dumbest Trade War (EP.398)

The Dumbest Trade War (EP.398)

On episode 398 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the financial impact of tariffs, why AI could save the stock market, market return assumptions for the next decade, the Vanguard Effect, levered ETFs, AI Ben, crypto is not a tariff hedge, using Bitcoin instead of a 529 plan, the remodeling boom, peer pressure from friends to go skiing, and much more!This episode is sponsored by YCharts. Check out the Debunking Investing Myths Deck at: https://go.ycharts.com/debu

Feb 5, • 1:00:07

Talk Your Book: Bitcoin for Anyone

Talk Your Book: Bitcoin for Anyone

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Matt Kaufman, SVP, Head of ETFs at Calamos to discuss using downside protection for cash, understanding caps and buffers using Bitcoin, the Bitcoin options market coming online, how 24hr crypto trading affects the market, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at anima

Feb 3, • 33:19

Your Budget Sucks (EP.397)

Your Budget Sucks (EP.397)

On episode 397 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Future Proof Citywide in Miami, the DeepSeek rug pull on Nvidia, what this means for the Mag 7 stocks, the most beloved bear market of all-time, Howard Marks on why this isn't a bubble (yet), hedge fund fees, leveraged ETFs, the price of eggs, hiring a private chef, a young couple's monthly budget in Brooklyn and more!This episode is sponsored by Kraneshares. To learn more about the KraneShares CSI China Internet

Jan 29, • 1:01:13

Talk Your Book: The Private Credit Opportunity Set

Talk Your Book: The Private Credit Opportunity Set

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Kyle Brown, CEO, President, and CIO of Trinity Capital to discuss valuations in the VC market, what advisors should be asking about when investing in this space, issues with crowding within the private credit space, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspiri

Jan 27, • 31:19

Trump Coin (EP.396)

Trump Coin (EP.396)

On episode 396 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: a memecoin from the President, what's next for the crypto industry, the golden age of financial fraud, recessions are becoming less prevalent, how much income it takes to be rich, the Sonos app crash, Wall Street thinks houses are overpriced, youth sports for Millennial parents, and much more!This episode is sponsored by Nasdaq. To learn more about the Nasdaq-100® Ecosystem, visit: https://www.nasdaq.com/solution

Jan 22, • 57:19

Talk Your Book: 3 Reasons to Buy Bonds

Talk Your Book: 3 Reasons to Buy Bonds

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Dave Braun, Managing Director and Generalist Portfolio Manager at PIMCO to discuss why rates have been moving higher, if the Fed will get us a soft landing, why mortgage bonds look attractive right now, the resiliency of the US consumer, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us a

Jan 20, • 31:38

A Key Market Signal (EP.395)

A Key Market Signal (EP.395)

On episode 395 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the devastating fires in LA, why homes are the most important financial asset for the middle class, a roundtrip in stocks since the election, why rates are rising, nitpicking the economy, Howard Marks is on bubble watch, quantum computing stocks, the anti-social century, Jerry Springer, and much more.This episode is sponsored by YCharts and Fabric by Gerber Life.Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subsc

Jan 15, • 1:00:26

Talk Your Book: Moneyball Meets Private Equity

Talk Your Book: Moneyball Meets Private Equity

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Greg Bond, CEO of Man Numeric and Head of the Americas for the Man Group to discuss how the private equity portfolio is constructed, screening out poor quality businesses, what private equity companies look for in investments, data and analytics within sports, Greg's experience with the Red Sox, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMicha

Jan 13, • 30:38

Predictions For 2025 (EP.394)

Predictions For 2025 (EP.394)

On episode 394 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: all sorts of predictions for the upcoming year, the AI bubble, the roaring 2020s of stock market returns, financial regrets at age 80, housing is the business cycle, when to sell big winner, the VC drop-off, what to do when you get super rich, 50 things a man should not know, and much more!Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com

Jan 8, • 1:08:40

Talk Your Book: Direct to Consumer Venture Capital

Talk Your Book: Direct to Consumer Venture Capital

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Elia Infascelli, Partner and CEO of The Cashmere Fund to discuss celebrities within VC, utilizing networks for private investments, how Cashmere was able to bring this to retail investors, how liquidity works for investors, portfolio structure with an evergreen fund, and much more!The Cashmere Fund disclosures: https://www.thecashmerefund.com/certain-risks-and-disclosuresFind complete show n

Jan 6, • 41:39

It Was a Very Good Year (EP.393)

It Was a Very Good Year (EP.393)

On episode 393 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the year that was in the stock market, expectations for 2025 returns, the Steve Ballmer portfolio, record ETF flows, the new normal of speculation, rich retirees who won't spend their money, the new normal of 7% mortgage rates, eff you money vs. your job, speaker phones, travel budgets, and much more!This episode is sponsored by YCharts and Fabric by Gerber Life.Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subsc

Jan 1, • 59:02

Talk Your Book: Conviction in Growth Investing

Talk Your Book: Conviction in Growth Investing

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Charly Travers, Portfolio Manager at Motley Fool Asset Management to discuss how the Motley 100 Index is constructed, growth vs value investing, how Motley analysts approach stock picking, thoughts on S&P top 10 market cap turnover, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an

Dec 30, 2024 • 29:14

Talk Your Book: The Economy is not the Stock Market with David Rosenberg

Talk Your Book: The Economy is not the Stock Market with David Rosenberg

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by David Rosenberg, Founder and President of Rosenberg Research, to discuss David's macro track record, thoughts on where the economy is today, what Powell has gotten wrong, why the momentum trade has been working, David’s economic views for 2025, policy uncertainty moving forward, and more.Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrel

Dec 29, 2024 • 55:06

All In on US Stocks (EP.392)

All In on US Stocks (EP.392)

On episode 392 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: healthy corrections, rate cuts vs. the stock market, terrible sentiment towards foreign stocks, the crack cocaine of the stock market, addiction in the information age, deflation in China, AI eats the world, houses are getting older, new vs. used cars for your kids, everyone is drinking Guinness, and much more!This episode is sponsored by YCharts and Fabric by Gerber Life.Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professi

Dec 25, 2024 • 1:03:32

Talk Your Book: Looking for the Next NVDA

Talk Your Book: Looking for the Next NVDA

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Nick Frasse, Product Manager at VanEck, and Angus Shillington, Deputy Portfolio Manager at VanEck to discuss NVDA vs everyone else, how the SMH is constructed, why other semiconductor companies are catching up, the issues at Intel, geopolitics and the semiconductor industry, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irre

Dec 23, 2024 • 41:52

Eff You Money (EP.391)

Eff You Money (EP.391)

On episode 391 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the prospects for another 20% year in the stock market in 2025, the U.S. economy is firing on all cylinders, no one is predicting a recession anymore, Hussman is still predicting a crash, why retail traders underperform, chart crimes, when money becomes a liability, when middle age hits, and more!This episode is sponsored by Westwood. Rethink how you approach energy investing and learn more at: westwoodgroup.comA

Dec 18, 2024 • 1:14:30

Talk Your Book: Buy Low, Sell High in China

Talk Your Book: Buy Low, Sell High in China

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson talk to Brendan Ahern from KraneShares about Chinese tech stocks, historically low sentiment towards international stocks, US vs. China tech companies, stimulus measures in China and much more.Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions

Dec 16, 2024 • 33:32

The Bears Capitulate (EP.390)

The Bears Capitulate (EP.390)

On episode 390 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the 4 biggest types of investment mistakes, bears throwing in the towel, Bitcoin hitting $100K, more travel stories, the greatest family movie of all time, and much more!This episode is sponsored by YCharts and Fabric by Gerber Life.Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free trial through Animal Spirits (new customers only). Sign up at: https://go.ycharts.com/animal-spirit

Dec 11, 2024 • 1:14:05

Talk Your Book: Matching Longs with Shorts

Talk Your Book: Matching Longs with Shorts

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Mick Rasmussen, Portfolio Manager at Wasatch Global Investors, to discuss how to construct a long/short portfolio, factors that make a good long vs a good short, how often the portfolio turns over, stock picking within small cap growth, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an

Dec 9, 2024 • 28:59

The Mother of All Bubbles (EP.389)

The Mother of All Bubbles (EP.389)

On episode 389 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: US exceptionalism in markets and the economy, losing all of your retirement savings, yield sells, financial nihilism, the downfall of the CFA, the greatest trades of all-time, a 10 year outlook on housing prices, the bull market in podcasts on YouTube, the psychology of tipping, and much more!Thanks to Public for sponsoring this episode. Visit: https://public.com/compound and lock in a 6% or higher yield with a B

Dec 4, 2024 • 1:08:02

Talk Your Book: J.P. Morgan's Guide to ETFs

Talk Your Book: J.P. Morgan's Guide to ETFs

On this episode of Animal Spirits: Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Jon Maier, Chief ETF Strategist and Shayan Hussain, Head of U.S. Investment Specialists at J.P. Morgan Asset Management to discuss the growth of ETF products, asset flows in and out of thematic ETFs, fixed income benchmarking, active investing with fixed income, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Invest

Dec 2, 2024 • 34:32

The Leverage Mania (EP.388)

The Leverage Mania (EP.388)

On episode 388 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: great stock market returns so far for 2024, Bluesky vs X, the impact of tariffs on the U.S. economy, when to sell Bitcoin, money in college athletics, a lightning round of vacation thoughts, and much more!Thanks to Global X for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about Global X’s entire suite of ETFs, visit: https://www.globalxetfs.com/Animal Spirits survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZBBJ69QSign up for Th

Nov 27, 2024 • 1:04:32

Talk Your Book: Animal Spirits Live

Talk Your Book: Animal Spirits Live

On today's show, we are live from Chicago with Alex Morris, Chief Investment Officer of F/m Investments to discuss why investors are still crowded on the short end of the curve, thoughts on why rates went up following a Fed cut, why credit spreads have remained so tight, not taking advice from hedge fund managers, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalsp

Nov 25, 2024 • 32:26

Everybody in the Pool (EP.387)

Everybody in the Pool (EP.387)

On episode 387 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: 7 years of Animal Spirits, the miracle of US equities, the wall of worry has fallen, S&P 10,000, massive ETF flows, vibes rule everything around me, are crypto winters a thing of the past, where the low housing price are, becoming a grandparent, and more!Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode. Sign up for the YCharts conversation with Josh Brown on December 3rd!Animal Spirits survey: https://www.survey

Nov 20, 2024 • 1:10:44

Talk Your Book: Investors Love Cash Flow

Talk Your Book: Investors Love Cash Flow

On today's show, we are joined by Barry Martin, Portfolio Manager of Shelton Equity Income Fund to discuss what it means to have shares called away, what makes a good stock to write a call option on, understanding the relationship between volatility and option premiums, how rates affect call option strategies, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirit

Nov 18, 2024 • 28:41

The Bitcoiners Won (EP.386)

The Bitcoiners Won (EP.386)

On episode 386 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why Trump won, how the Dems fumbled the economic messaging, how this will impact recession spending moving forward, 30% gains in the stock market, credit spreads, the reflation trade, how many people understand tariffs, how Bitcoin won, tiny houses, Mighty Ducks, and much more!This episode is sponsored by Roundhill Investments and Fabric by Gerber Life.Today's show is brought to you by Roundhill Investments and t

Nov 13, 2024 • 53:26

Talk Your Book: Infrastructure Investing

Talk Your Book: Infrastructure Investing

On today's show, we are joined by Jon Levin, CEO of GCM Grosvenor and Mark Gatto, Co-Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer of CION Investments to discuss the basics around the infrastructure asset class, BDC's vs interval fund products, risk and return expectations for infrastructure, thoughts on infrastructure investing during rate cycles and election years, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Inv

Nov 11, 2024 • 40:27

A Once in a Lifetime Investment Opportunity (EP.385)

A Once in a Lifetime Investment Opportunity (EP.385)

On episode 385 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Warren Buffett's massive cash pile, the performance of the average stock this year, the Polymarket whale, markets in everything, Twitter replies now and then, the cost of college is going down, Bitcoin is still king, private equity in targetdate funds, politics vs. investing, and much more!This episode is sponsored by YCharts and CME Group.Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start

Nov 6, 2024 • 1:12:46

Talk Your Book: Longevity Income

Talk Your Book: Longevity Income

On today's show, we are joined by Nate Conrad, Head of LifeX at Stone Ridge Asset Management to discuss how longevity income ETFs work, what LifeX is actually investing in, why matching spending with investment products is important, understanding the inflation adjustment for inflation protected income funds, declining LifeX fees over time, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot

Nov 4, 2024 • 28:02

The Cost of the American Dream (EP.384)

The Cost of the American Dream (EP.384)

On episode 384 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: changing narratives in the markets, why interest rates are rising, why you should never take macro advice from hedge fund managers, why the S&P 500 is so hard to beat, living paycheck-to-paycheck on $150k, why the 2020s inflation was so painful, 7% mortgage rates, the downside of Waymo, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Global X and Kraneshares. To learn more about Global X’s entire suite of ETFs from covered c

Oct 30, 2024 • 1:02:37

Talk Your Book: The Next Big Short

Talk Your Book: The Next Big Short

On today's show, we are joined by Jared Dillian, Founder of Jared Dillian Money to discuss Jared's bearishness on private equity, understanding the demand side of private equity, a private equity sentiment bubble, an explosion of HVAC private equity deals, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recomme

Oct 28, 2024 • 32:30

Talk Your Book: Marketing is Everything with Seth Godin

Talk Your Book: Marketing is Everything with Seth Godin

On today's show we talk with Seth Godin about his new book, This is Strategy, along with why everyone is in sales, how to produce good content, how to define your audience, how to avoid procrastination, marketing for introverts and much more.Thanks to Wealthbox for sponsoring this episode! Wealthbox® is a CRM platform for financial advisors. Integrated with leading custodians and wealthtech partners, Wealthbox is known for its modern product design and powerful yet intuitive user experi

Oct 24, 2024 • 34:32

The Envy of the World (EP.383)

The Envy of the World (EP.383)

On episode 383 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: stock market return expectations for the next decade, why there's no euphoria, Nvidia is a unicorn, the American economy is unstoppable, millennials are richer than expected, sports gambling is coming for ETFs, how to buy a house right now, Netflix won, coaching youth sports, and much more! This episode is sponsored by YCharts and CME Group. Visit: Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start

Oct 23, 2024 • 1:08:24

Talk Your Book: Factor Investing with Dimensional Fund Advisors

Talk Your Book: Factor Investing with Dimensional Fund Advisors

On today's show, we are joined by Rob Harvey, Co-Head of Product Specialists at Dimensional Fund Advisors to discuss how DFA separates itself as an asset manager, details around converting a mutual fund to an ETF, how DFA handled the meme stock craze, value vs growth, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questi

Oct 21, 2024 • 36:17

The 1990s Really Were Better (EP.382)

The 1990s Really Were Better (EP.382)

On episode 382 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: an unbelievable run for the stock market, diversification vs. hedging, an unprecedented surge in household wealth, the new normal of negativity, some nostalgia for the 1990s, the stock market doesn't care who the president is, 100% yields, when to ask for an early inheritance, how to crack an egg correctly and much more! This episode is sponsored by Nasdaq and Fabric by Gerber Life. Visit: https://www.nasdaq.com/solution

Oct 16, 2024 • 51:49

Talk Your Book: Yield at What Cost?

Talk Your Book: Yield at What Cost?

On today's show, we are joined by Jonathan Molchan, Managing Partner at STF Management to discuss how the trend following rules work, issues with traditional call option writing strategies, trend following performance through different cycles, and much more. Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or

Oct 14, 2024 • 30:53

Money Buys Happiness (EP.381)

Money Buys Happiness (EP.381)

On episode 381 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: calling a top in the stock market, why people don't trust data, the economy is still fine, why yields are rising in a rate cutting environment, a bigger innovation than AI, the impact of climate change on the housing market, a nation of trucks, how money actually does buy happiness, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Global X and CME Group. To learn more about Global X’s entire suite of ETFs from covered calls,

Oct 9, 2024 • 1:04:29

Talk Your Book: Private Equity Deals with Ted Seides

Talk Your Book: Private Equity Deals with Ted Seides

On today's show, we are joined by Ted Seides, founder of Capital Allocators to discuss his new book, Private Equity Deals: Lessons in investing, dealmaking, and operations from private equity professionals.Thanks to Public for sponsoring this episode! Visit: http://public.com/compound and discover how you can lock in a 6+% yield until 2028.Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email

Oct 7, 2024 • 39:18

The Most Bullish Backdrop (EP.380)

The Most Bullish Backdrop (EP.380)

On episode 380 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the biggest risk to the real estate market, why bull markets are different today, gold & stocks both hitting ATHs, the US economy is sitting pretty, wearable AI glasses, bullish housing demographics, Michael's favorite horror movies, and much more!This episode is sponsored by YCharts and Fabric by Gerber Life.Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free trial through Ani

Oct 2, 2024 • 1:15:14

Talk Your Book: The Next Catalyst for Crypto Assets

Talk Your Book: The Next Catalyst for Crypto Assets

On today's show, we are joined by Chris Kuiper, Director of Research, and Matt Horne, Head of Digital Asset Strategists for Fidelity Digital Assets to discuss narratives surrounding ETH and BTC, use cases around ETH, how advisors can work with Fidelity utilizing digital assets, decreasing volatility in crypto, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirit

Sep 30, 2024 • 39:28

Are You Middle Class? (EP.379)

Are You Middle Class? (EP.379)

On episode 379 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: our experience at Future Proof, melt-up possibilities in the stock market, what's left for ETFs, how many people are actually in the middle class, the death of the minivan, housing prices vs. demographics, cutting the cord, why Twitter is getting worse, and much more!This episode is sponsored by Innovator ETFs and CME Group. To learn how you can gain exposure to the Nasdaq-100’s potential upside, with built-in ri

Sep 25, 2024 • 1:09:53

Talk Your Book: Opportunities in Commercial Real Estate

Talk Your Book: Opportunities in Commercial Real Estate

On today's show, we are joined by Richard Byrne, President of Benefit Street Partners to discuss the chaos within the commercial office space sector, the opportunity for commercial real estate, what separates one asset manager from another, how real estate lending works, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, question

Sep 24, 2024 • 36:49

The Michael & Ben Origin Story (EP.378)

The Michael & Ben Origin Story (EP.378)

On episode 378 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: how Ben got started in the industry and eventually arrived at Ritholtz Wealth Management, the best movies to watch on an airplane, and more! This episode was filmed in front of a live audience at the Future Proof festival in Huntington Beach, CA on 9/17/24. This episode is sponsored by YCharts and Fabric by Gerber Life. Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free trial through Anim

Sep 18, 2024 • 35:44

Talk Your Book: Investing in Free Cash Flow

Talk Your Book: Investing in Free Cash Flow

On today's show, we spoke with Michael Mack, Associate Portfolio Manager for Victory Capital to discuss how to calculate free cash flow, if the Mag 7 would have shown up on a free cash flow screen, avoiding value traps, sector exposure within high free cash flow strategies, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback,

Sep 16, 2024 • 33:29

When Your Friends Are Richer Than You (EP.377)

When Your Friends Are Richer Than You (EP.377)

On episode 377 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: a bad week for the stock market, why foreign stocks are so cheap, the state of America's wallet, the coming HELOC boom, the finances of Only Fans, how to become a millionaire, next week's live Animal Spirits from Future Proof, and much more!This episode is sponsored by Jensen Investment Management. Learn more about the Jensen Quality Growth ETF at: https://www.jenseninvestment.com/etf/Sign up for The Compound newsletter a

Sep 11, 2024 • 1:09:56

Talk Your Book: Dividend Stocks are Cheap

Talk Your Book: Dividend Stocks are Cheap

On today's show, we spoke with Jennifer Chang, Portfolio Manager and Executive Director for Schafer Cullen to discuss utilizing active management within dividend strategies, how dividend stocks are affected by rising rates, how Schafer's call writing strategy differs from other popular income strategies, tax optimizing income strategies, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an em

Sep 9, 2024 • 29:08

Founder Mode (EP.376)

Founder Mode (EP.376)

On episode 376 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Josh Brown's new book, an excellent year for investors, how bullish investors are, a new record high in 401k millionaires, efficient markets, the nostalgia premium, inflation at the arcade, the wait-and-see housing market, the stresses of being a parent, drinking at the movie theater, and much more! This episode is sponsored by YCharts. Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free t

Sep 4, 2024 • 1:08:01

Talk Your Book: Balancing Risk and Yield

Talk Your Book: Balancing Risk and Yield

On today's show, we are joined by Priya Misra, Portfolio Manager for the JPMorgan Core Plus Bond ETF to discuss why private credit has gotten so popular, where corporate bond spreads are today, high quality companies within the high yield category, what a soft landing means for interest rates, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with

Sep 2, 2024 • 36:15

What is Wealth?

What is Wealth?

On episode 375 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Jerome Powell's speech at Jackson Hole, Nvidia millionaires, financial voices you can safely ignore, housing affordability, what it takes to be considered wealthy, every generation thinks they have it bad, Michael's college transcript, and much more! This episode is sponsored by YCharts. Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free trial through Animal Spirits (new customers only).

Aug 28, 2024 • 1:14:12

Talk Your Book: Finding Small Cap Diamonds in the Rough

Talk Your Book: Finding Small Cap Diamonds in the Rough

On today's show, we spoke with Brandon Nelson, Senior Portfolio Manager for Calamos to discuss Calamos' favorite small cap sectors, why small caps have flown under the radar, understanding the relationship between momentum and fundamentals, profitability of small cap stocks, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, ques

Aug 26, 2024 • 38:55

Talk Your Book: Alt Goes Mainstream with Michael Sidgmore

Talk Your Book: Alt Goes Mainstream with Michael Sidgmore

On today's show, we are joined by Michael Sidgmore, Partner and Co-Founder of Broadhaven Ventures to discuss all things Alternatives, how that world has changed in recent years, why financial advisors in the RIA channel is such a big opportunity for alternative investments, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, quest

Aug 24, 2024 • 51:16

Inflation or Price Gouging? (EP.374)

Inflation or Price Gouging? (EP.374)

On episode 374 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: what an average year in the stock market looks like, Seinfeld on consumers, why inflation is such a tricky concept, millennials are richer than you think, grocery stores are not the enemy, star fund managers, how demographics will help the housing market, sending your kids away to summer camp, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Eaton Vance. To learn more about the Eaton Vance Short Duration Income ETF (EVSD), vi

Aug 21, 2024 • 1:14:15

Talk Your Book: Quality Growth Investing

Talk Your Book: Quality Growth Investing

On today's show, we are joined by Kevin Walkush, Portfolio Manager at Jensen Investment Management to discuss what quality means to Jensen, why META was removed from the portfolio, thoughts on AI and tech bubbles, the most exciting sectors for the long term, how interest rates affect valuation models, hallmarks for great quality businesses, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to sh

Aug 19, 2024 • 34:14

Boomers vs. Millennials (EP.373)

Boomers vs. Millennials (EP.373)

On episode 373 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: a history of stock market flash crashes, the end of the travel boom, why the economy is finally softening, how to predict a recession, how many households actually live paycheck to paycheck, the coming refi/HELOC boom, stock pick loss aversion, movie theaters aren't dead yet, and much more!This episode is sponsored by YCharts and Fabric by Gerber Life.Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you sta

Aug 14, 2024 • 54:51

Talk Your Book: Back to the Futures Market

Talk Your Book: Back to the Futures Market

On today's show, we are joined by Jerry Prior III, COO & Senior Portfolio Manager of Mount Lucas Management to discuss what managed futures are, how portfolios can benefit from them, how managed futures are handling the Japan carry trade, diversification benefits of managed futures, the story of how the MLM Index was created, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at anima

Aug 12, 2024 • 32:30

Flash Crash or Recession? (EP.372)

Flash Crash or Recession? (EP.372)

On episode 372 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: market mayhem, Japan's 1987 crash moment, Jerome Powell's legacy game at Jackson Hole, recession worries, the worst asset class for the next decade, the vibe shift on inflation, the Godfather of the 21st century, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Global X. Visit https://www.globalxetfs.com/ to explore a lineup of more than 90 ETFs, along with insights to help you navigate a dynamic investing landscape. Sign up

Aug 7, 2024 • 1:01:57

Talk Your Book: The Housing Market with Mike Simonsen

Talk Your Book: The Housing Market with Mike Simonsen

On today's Talk Your Book, we are joined by Mike Simonsen, Founder and President of real estate analytics firm Altos Research to discuss how easy to access real estate data has affected buyers, the effects rates have on buyers and sellers, a realistic scenario for a housing market correction, thoughts on the iBuyer phenomenon, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at

Aug 5, 2024 • 38:38

How to Pick the Winners (EP.371)

How to Pick the Winners (EP.371)

On episode 371 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: how small cap stocks got so cheap, how to improve your chances of outperforming the market, why investors are rushing into bonds, Americans make more money than you think, good news on gas prices, how the Fed can help the housing market, the best way to eat potatoes, the downfall of Nike, IMAX theaters, and much more! This episode is sponsored by YCharts and CME Group. Subscribe to the YCharts Advisor Pulse, and remember

Jul 31, 2024 • 1:00:11

Talk Your Book: Investing in BlackRock's Mega Forces

Talk Your Book: Investing in BlackRock's Mega Forces

On today's show, we are joined by Jay Jacobs, U.S. Head of Thematic and Active ETFs to discuss BlackRock's favorite Mega Force themes to invest in, investing in the reshoring theme, IBIT trading volume, the Ethereum ETF launch and Ethereum use cases, getting cash off the sidelines, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedbac

Jul 29, 2024 • 34:55

Talk Your Book: Investing in Corporate Culture

Talk Your Book: Investing in Corporate Culture

On today's show, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Kristof Gleich of Harbor Capital and Scott Colson of Irrational Capital to discuss how the Human Capital Factor was discovered, what is being measured to quantify the Human Capital Factor, how advisors are utilizing this fund, the importance of portfolio construction when utilizing factors, and much more.Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to

Jul 27, 2024 • 31:41

Living the Dream (AS.370)

Living the Dream (AS.370)

On episode 370 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why the stock market doesn't care who the president is, the U.S. stock market is having a boring year, the biggest winners in stock market history, the economics of a martini, the best comedy movies of all-time, the broken beer bottle economy, Nvidia employees are rich, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Global X and Fabric by Gerber Life. Visit https://www.globalxetfs.com/ to explore a lineup of more than 90 ET

Jul 24, 2024 • 1:01:08

Talk Your Book: Future Proof 2024

Talk Your Book: Future Proof 2024

On today's show, we spoke with Matt Middleton, Founder and CEO of Future Proof to discuss changes and updates to Future Proof 2024, breakthru meetings and experiences, the updated fintech demo alley, who should attend Future Proof, Third Eye Blind, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations

Jul 20, 2024 • 28:01

Fast Food Inflation (EP.369)

Fast Food Inflation (EP.369)

On episode 369 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the two types of Fed rate cuts, a positive outcome from high inflation, the stock market was right again, the number of millionaires worldwide, Wingstop vs. Chipotle, how many renters could afford to buy a home, how much it costs to build a new house, why private markets aren't in a bubble, Kevin Bacon movies, and much more! This episode is sponsored by YCharts and CME Group. Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional

Jul 17, 2024 • 1:03:25

Talk Your Book: Trend Following with Eric Crittenden

Talk Your Book: Trend Following with Eric Crittenden

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick spoke with Eric Crittenden, CIO of Standpoint Asset Management to discuss adjusting for bias within data analysis, defining holding periods for trend following strategies, multi-asset strategies vs managed futures, simplifying the trading process when trend following, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@t

Jul 15, 2024 • 35:31

Buying a House at the Top of the Market (EP.368)

Buying a House at the Top of the Market (EP.368)

On episode 368 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why the stock market never really changes, why this is the hardest it's ever been to beat the market, the travel boom rolls on, Boomers are having fun in retirement, young people are making money, the economy is slowing, Bitcoin ETFs are like 401k plans, people love guaranteed income, the new season of The Bear, and much more!This episode is sponsored by NEOS Investments and Fabric by Gerber Life.NEOS has set out to enhan

Jul 10, 2024 • 1:00:58

Talk Your Book: Public and Private Market Credit Opportunities

Talk Your Book: Public and Private Market Credit Opportunities

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Ben Santonelli, Lead Portfolio Manager of Polen Capital's Credit Opportunities Strategy to discuss how interval funds work, navigating interest rate increases within your bond allocation, how Polen Capital is actively managing bonds, the biggest risk to high yield bonds, how Polen Capital values businesses, thoughts on why spreads have remained tight, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Com

Jul 9, 2024 • 28:58

Talk Your Book: Why We Don't Build Enough Houses

Talk Your Book: Why We Don't Build Enough Houses

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Coby Lefkowitz, Partner at Backyard to discuss why homebuilding has slowed, why building houses has become such a complex process, thoughts on start-up cities, Private Equity is not buying up all single family units, solutions to the housing crisis, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@t

Jul 6, 2024 • 39:32

Living Paycheck-to-Paycheck (EP.367)

Living Paycheck-to-Paycheck (EP.367)

On episode 367 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: U.S. domination of the world stock market, how credit spreads work, how the 401k revolution changed the stock market, Americans are rich, an economic slowdown is here, the U.S. labor force is huge, everyone wants to travel, the $5 meal deal inflation indicator, and much more! This episode is sponsored by YCharts and CME Group. Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free YCharts tri

Jul 3, 2024 • 50:08

Talk Your Book: Income Outcome Investing

Talk Your Book: Income Outcome Investing

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Hamilton Reiner, Managing Director, Portfolio Manager, and Head of US Equity Derivatives at JPM Asset Management to discuss active strategies combined with option overlays, why limiting outcomes improves investor experience, how J.P. Morgan constructs option strategies, how volatility affects yield for income strategies, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s

Jul 1, 2024 • 33:58

Who Owns the Stock Market? (EP.366)

Who Owns the Stock Market? (EP.366)

On episode 366 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the biggest difference between bull and bear markets, cyclical vs. secular bull markets, what's wrong with Europe, Gen Z is obsessed with the stock market, spending on concerts, everyone is moving to the south, how the Fed can help the housing market, when to honk your horn, spending on groceries, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Global X and CME Group. Visit https://www.globalxetfs.com/ to explore a lineup of

Jun 26, 2024 • 51:46

Talk Your Book: Growth Stock Concentration

Talk Your Book: Growth Stock Concentration

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are live from Charleston, joined by Kathleen McCarragher, a Portfolio Manager for Jennison Associates and Harbor Capital to discuss market concentration within the S&P 500, how growth managers combat high-flying stocks within the index, how interest rates affect valuation, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at anima

Jun 24, 2024 • 38:33

The Fed Needs to Cut (EP.365)

The Fed Needs to Cut (EP.365)

On episode 365 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why it's finally time for the Fed to cut rates, when valuations will matter again, the best hedges against an AI boom-bust cycle, what would cause housing prices to fall, no one moves anymore, how tragedy can provide some perspective on your finances, bull markets lead to lower crime rates, bad drivers, and much more! This episode is sponsored by YCharts and CME Group. Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscr

Jun 19, 2024 • 58:24

Talk Your Book: A $20 Trillion Dollar Market Opportunity

Talk Your Book: A $20 Trillion Dollar Market Opportunity

On today's show, we are joined again by Bob Long, CEO of StepStone Private Wealth to discuss the basics of private credit, how the Dodd-Frank Act affected the banking industry, what types of deals StepStone is pursuing, why private credit earns higher yields, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, reco

Jun 17, 2024 • 42:33

Bankless & Animal Spirits

Bankless & Animal Spirits

On this special episode of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Ryan Sean Adams and David Hoffman, of the Bankless podcast, to discuss: crypto cycles, Bitcoin vs Ethereum, crypto entering politics, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Public. Make your savings work harder and earn an industry-leading 5.1% APY with a high-yield cash account on Public. Visit https://public.com/ to learn more! Sign up for The Compound newsletter and never miss out: thecompoundnews.

Jun 16, 2024 • 1:00:40

Addicted to Trading (EP.364)

Addicted to Trading (EP.364)

On episode 364 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: our trip to Charleston, slowing vs. normalization of the economy, the loneliness of the American worker, Fed rate cuts, getting rich fast, degens trading options, car deals are coming back, the true cost of home ownership, in defense of credit card reward hunting, the poor man's Tom Cruise, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Nasdaq and Fabric by Gerber Life. To learn more about Nasdaq's ETF listing process, visi

Jun 12, 2024 • 56:10

Talk Your Book: Utilizing Dividends for Income

Talk Your Book: Utilizing Dividends for Income

On today's show, we spoke with Chris Floyd, VP and Portfolio Manager for Franklin Templeton Investment Solutions to discuss how rates affect high-dividend paying companies, the low volatility aspect of the portfolio, utilizing REITs as an income driver, systematic approaches to screening out negative factors vs concentrating on positive factors, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to s

Jun 10, 2024 • 29:33

The Consumer is Slowing Down (EP.363)

The Consumer is Slowing Down (EP.363)

On episode 363 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: what happens if the AI bubble bursts, 200 years of stock market concentration, how to find lower insurance premiums, the bottom 50%, the fentanyl of private markets, assets & debt across generations, middle age conversation starters, and more! This episode is sponsored by YCharts and CME Group. Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free YCharts trial through Animal Spirits (new cu

Jun 5, 2024 • 54:17

Talk Your Book: Supply and Demand Always Wins

Talk Your Book: Supply and Demand Always Wins

On today's show Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Sal Gilbertie, CEO of Teucrium to discuss the cost of production and commodities, how inflation affects the cost of production, how investors are utilizing Teucrium products, what's going on in cocoa, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, r

Jun 3, 2024 • 32:41

Has the World Gone Crazy? (EP.362)

Has the World Gone Crazy? (EP.362)

On episode 362 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the great Bill Walton, how many people own stocks and houses in America, how the internet and outrage culture broke surveys, 401k millionaires, what inflation means now, the Home Alone house is on the market, the best personal finance traits, and more! This episode is sponsored by Franklin Templeton. To learn more about the Franklin Income Focus ETF (INCM), please visit: https://www.franklintempleton.com/investments/opti

May 29, 2024 • 1:01:58

Talk Your Book: Growth Stage Debt Investing

Talk Your Book: Growth Stage Debt Investing

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Kyle Brown, CEO, President, and CIO of Trinity Capital to discuss how the Trinity Capital structure works, how venture debt investing works, understanding execution risk vs technology risk, Trinity's 5 income-generating businesses, risks involved, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@the

May 27, 2024 • 32:49

Wages Are Beating Inflation (EP.361)

Wages Are Beating Inflation (EP.361)

On episode 361 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: losing a family pet, the S&P 500 is not the economy, everything is up this year, the stock market is NOT a casino, wages are cumulative just like inflation, consumers keep consuming, ETH ETFs, the Ben Carlson streaming bundle, and more! This episode is sponsored by Franklin Templeton. To learn more about the Franklin International Core Dividend Tilt Index ETF (DIVI), please visit: https://www.franklintempleton.com/invest

May 22, 2024 • 57:49

Talk Your Book: Higher For Longer

Talk Your Book: Higher For Longer

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Alex Morris, President and Chief Investment Officer of F/m Investments to discuss what duration, maturity, and convexity mean to a bond, the psychology of bond bear markets, why TIPS did not perform as expected in 2022, differences between yield to maturity and the 30-day SEC yield, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to sh

May 20, 2024 • 35:49

When Will Houses Be Affordable Again? (EP.360)

When Will Houses Be Affordable Again? (EP.360)

On episode 360 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: pullbacks in bull markets, the legend of Jim Simons, if 401(k)s were a mistake, what a car says about its driver, hotel movies vs airplane movies, and much more! This episode is brought to you by YCharts and Fabric by Gerber Life. YCharts is always one step ahead of the game with free resources and this time is no different. Check out their election guide and get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription whe

May 15, 2024 • 1:06:02

Talk Your Book: Defining Risk with Structured Protection ETFs

Talk Your Book: Defining Risk with Structured Protection ETFs

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick spoke with Matt Kaufman, SVP and Head of ETFs at Calamos Investments to discuss: why embedding options within ETF wrappers has gotten so popular, how Calamos structures protection ETFs, why timing can matter with structured protection ETFs, demographic tailwinds for structured protection products, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to s

May 13, 2024 • 32:11

Fighting Inflation (EP.359)

Fighting Inflation (EP.359)

On episode 359 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the suffocating bull market, the other side of government debt, Jerry Seinfeld on when money changed everything, consumers are finally fighting back against inflation, Wall Street translations, who is buying Bitcoin ETFs, the bear case against housing and much more! This episode is brought to you by Simplify. Simplify Your Access to Alternative ETFs. Visit https://www.simplify.us/ to learn more. Sign up for The Compound

May 8, 2024 • 1:08:13

Talk Your Book: Bitcoin Flows

Talk Your Book: Bitcoin Flows

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Christopher Jensen, Director of Digital Assets Research for Franklin's Digital Asset Investment Strategies Group to discuss, the resiliency of Bitcoin, the global casino vs global computer use-case theories, understanding the Bitcoin halving, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompo

May 6, 2024 • 34:16

Negative Arbitrage (EP.358)

Negative Arbitrage (EP.358)

On episode 358 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Michael vs. StubHub, inflation at Disney is undefeated, 30 years of stock market returns, the bond market correction rolls on, ARKK is finally seeing an exodus, corporations are taking advantage of consumers, the biggest AI winners, the new normal of housing prices, and much more! This episode is brought to you by YCharts. Check out the Report Builder for yourself and click the link in the show notes to get 20% off your

May 1, 2024 • 1:09:54

Talk Your Book: Hedging Your Portfolio with Options

Talk Your Book: Hedging Your Portfolio with Options

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Eric Metz, President, and Chief Investment Officer of SpiderRock Advisors to discuss, the pending acquisition by BlackRock, covered call performance in a bull market, tax benefits when utilizing options, what's driving option-overlay growth in todays market, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animal

Apr 29, 2024 • 31:56

A Healthy Pullback (EP.357)

A Healthy Pullback (EP.357)

On episode 357 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why the stock market needed a correction, why the 1990s is an outlier (in more ways than one), economic growth is a policy choice, Gen Z is doing better than you think, living in the U.S. vs. Europe, the number of households with a paid off mortgage, the renovation boom, and much more! This episode is brought to you by Franklin Templeton. To learn more about the Franklin High Yield Corporate ETF (FLHY) visit: https://www

Apr 24, 2024 • 57:44

Talk Your Book: The Bull Case for India

Talk Your Book: The Bull Case for India

On today's show, we are joined by Anupam Ghose, Managing Partner at System Two Advisors to discuss: why the China story is different than the India of today, India's macro tailwinds, how GDP growth translates to higher stock prices, risks involved when investing in India, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, qu

Apr 22, 2024 • 32:40

The Yeah But Bull Market (EP.356)

The Yeah But Bull Market (EP.356)

On episode 356 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why the stock market isn't down more, why the price of oil isn't up more, improvements in investor behavior, the auto insurance crisis, why home insurance is rising, why rich people don't feel rich, millennials and boomers powering the economy, higher for longer mortgage rates, customer service nightmares, and much more! This episode is brought to you by YCharts. Grab your copy of the Quarterly Economic Update Slide Deck

Apr 17, 2024 • 1:04:18

Talk Your Book: Diversifying Away From the Magnificent 7

Talk Your Book: Diversifying Away From the Magnificent 7

On today's show, we spoke with Ed Egilinsky, Managing Director, Head of Alternatives, and Head of Sales and Distribution at Direxion to discuss: flows into bullish and bearish levered funds, diversifying away from large-cap tech, utilizing the Nasdaq equal-weight ETF, the appropriate time period to hold leveraged products, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at ani

Apr 15, 2024 • 39:01

Enjoy the Bull Market While it Lasts (EP.355)

Enjoy the Bull Market While it Lasts (EP.355)

On episode 355 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: how we prioritize our spending, 1987 vs. the Covid Crash, crazy index fund flows, stock market concentration, panic about government debt, the tech recession in California, will millennials move to Florida in retirement, the most streamed shows, and much more! This episode is brought to you by Pacer ETFs and Fabric by Gerber Life. To learn more about the COWG and CAFG ETFs, visit: https://www.paceretfs.com/ Join the thou

Apr 10, 2024 • 1:05:05

Talk Your Book: Emerging Market Fundamentals

Talk Your Book: Emerging Market Fundamentals

On today's show, we are joined by Rahul Sharma, Portfolio Manager and Executive Director of Schafer Cullen Capital Management to discuss: China's effect on Emerging Markets, avoiding value-traps in EM, strong macro trends in India, passive vs. active management in Emerging Markets, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any fe

Apr 8, 2024 • 36:13

The Never-Ending Travel Boom (EP.354)

The Never-Ending Travel Boom (EP.354)

On episode 354 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: inflation helping corporate profits, what's going on with chocolate, airport traffic hitting all-time highs, the new Robinhood credit card, the downfall of Jack Daniels, and much more! This episode is brought to you by YCharts and Kraneshares. Join thousands of users who rely on YCharts to easily answer those questions and much more by leveraging personalized proposal reports to truly showcase your value add. To learn mo

Apr 3, 2024 • 1:00:58

Talk Your Book: Preserving Your Capital

Talk Your Book: Preserving Your Capital

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined again by Jason Barsema, Co-Founder and President of Halo Investing to discuss: investing in notes structured around single stocks, the difference between hard and soft protection, what the Catapult Note is, Halo's annuity and annuity servicing capabilities for advisors, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email

Apr 1, 2024 • 43:39

The Roaring Twenties (EP.353)

The Roaring Twenties (EP.353)

On episode 353 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why the elements are in place for a boom-time decade, why household allocations to stocks were so low in the past, how to lie with statistics, who keeps buying Treasury bonds, picking the AI winners in the stock market, some good news for homebuyers, and much more! This episode is brought to you by TBIL and the US Benchmark Series. To learn more, visit: https://www.ustreasuryetf.com/ Sign up for The Compound newsletter

Mar 27, 2024 • 57:55

Talk Your Book: Finding a Bottom in China

Talk Your Book: Finding a Bottom in China

On this episode, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Jonathan Shelon, Chief Operating Officer of KraneShares to discuss: an economic update on China, China's buyer of last resort, what happened in Chinese real estate, and much more!Find complete show notes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for fu

Mar 25, 2024 • 38:13

Talk Your Book: Return Stacking

Talk Your Book: Return Stacking

On this episode, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Corey Hoffstein of Newfound Research to discuss: managed futures, return stacking, using leverage effectively, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Check out the latest in fin

Mar 23, 2024 • 37:08

This is a Good Thing (EP.352)

This is a Good Thing (EP.352)

On episode 352 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: thoughts on Italy, consumers wall of cash, inflation at the grocery store, real estate agent commissions in trouble, the best airplane movie of all time, thoughts on Dune 2, and much more! Thanks to YCharts and Fabric for sponsoring this episode. Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription when you start your free YCharts trial through Animal Spirits (new customers only): https://ycharts.com/ Join the thou

Mar 20, 2024 • 1:07:00

Talk Your Book: The Mount Rushmore of ETFs

Talk Your Book: The Mount Rushmore of ETFs

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Ryan McCormack, Factor and Core Equity Strategist and Paul Schroeder, QQQ Equity Product Strategist at Invesco to discuss: the creation of the Nasdaq 100, where the QQQ ticker comes from, the Nasdaq 100 special rebalance in 2023, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com w

Mar 18, 2024 • 35:42

The Richest Country in the World (EP.351)

The Richest Country in the World (EP.351)

On episode 351 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: one of the most resilient stock rallies ever, money market funds vs. crypto, Americans are rich, the stock market has always been concentrated, inflation at the grocery store, the biggest reason the Fed needs to cut rates, some good news for first-time homebuyers, and much more! Thanks to the Texas Small Cap Equity Index ETF ($TXSS) for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at: https://www.texascapitalbank.com/etf-funds-ma

Mar 13, 2024 • 1:08:41

Talk Your Book: The Bitcoin Halving

Talk Your Book: The Bitcoin Halving

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Chris Kuiper, Director of Research, and Matt Horne, Head of Business Development for Fidelity Digital Asset Management to discuss: the new Bitcoin ETFs, how much news is priced into Bitcoin price, what the Bitcoin halving is, how crypto and macro economics fit together, institutional adoption of Bitcoin, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant In

Mar 11, 2024 • 38:08

Things Are Getting Stupid Again (EP.350)

Things Are Getting Stupid Again (EP.350)

On episode 350 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why the markets continue moving higher, why buy & hold is the best (and worst) strategy, how 401(k)s impact the stock market, billionaires can't complain about inflation, consumers keep consuming, the richest generation in history, crypto just won't die, why we keep seeing so many booms & busts, the best new show of 2024 and much more.Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode. Check out their new Attr

Mar 6, 2024 • 1:07:05

Talk Your Book: Private Investing for Fiduciaries

Talk Your Book: Private Investing for Fiduciaries

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Jacob Miller, Co-Founder of Opto Investments to discuss: how difficult it is for RIAs to get private market exposure, the growth of private credit, and why that may be an issue, Opto's screening process for private investments, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com wit

Mar 4, 2024 • 44:04

Now Show Japan (EP.349)

Now Show Japan (EP.349)

On episode 349 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: where Ben stayed in the Keys, Michael's surreal experience with Eli Manning, the market needs a healthy correction, Japanese equities making a come back, good news for homebuyers, the new Costner trailer, and much more! Thanks to EZBC and Fabric for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about the Franklin Bitcoin ETF (EZBC), visit: franklintempleton.com/strategies/bitcoin-etf Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabr

Feb 28, 2024 • 1:06:25

Talk Your Book:  Investing for Income

Talk Your Book: Investing for Income

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Josh Greco, Senior VP and Senior Institutional Portfolio Manager for Franklin Income Investors to discuss: asset allocation decisions within multi-asset funds, how rate changes affect portfolio yield, investors overallocation to cash, understanding convertible bonds, and much more! Learn more at: https://www.franklintempleton.com/ Learn more about INCM: https://www.franklintempleton.com/investments/options/exchange-traded-funds/prod

Feb 26, 2024 • 39:28

The Fed Should Cut Already (EP.348)

The Fed Should Cut Already (EP.348)

On episode 348 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the people you see on every vacation, the cure for the loneliness epidemic, the biggest driver of stock market returns, the John Bogle expected returns formula, the best returning stock might surprise you, Bitcoin ETF flows, why there won't be a baby boomer retirement crisis, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! Supercharge your client conversations with the latest and greatest data from YCharts’

Feb 21, 2024 • 59:19

Talk Your Book: Putting a Floor on the Nasdaq 100

Talk Your Book: Putting a Floor on the Nasdaq 100

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Bruce Bond, Co-Founder and CEO of Innovator Capital Management to discuss: behavioral finance, and the popularity of defined outcome products during bull markets, how equity floor ETFs work, Innovator's latest defined income ETF solutions, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompound

Feb 19, 2024 • 37:46

Talk Your Book: No Worries with Jared Dillian

Talk Your Book: No Worries with Jared Dillian

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Jared Dillian to discuss his new book No Worries: How To Live a Stress-Free Financial Life. Jared is the editor of The Daily Dirtnap, a daily market newsletter for investment professionals. Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas

Feb 17, 2024 • 34:40

Passive is Eating the Market (EP.347)

Passive is Eating the Market (EP.347)

On episode 347 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why McDonald's is getting more expensive, the prospects for another bear market this year, fundamentals that drive stock returns, concentration in the S&P 500, Nvidia vs. China, tail risk strategies, consumer credit, commercial real estate, fixing youth sports, and more! Thanks to Spear Funds for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about the Spear Alpha ETF, visit: https://spear-funds.com/ Find complete show notes on

Feb 14, 2024 • 1:04:18

Talk Your Book: Talking Bonds at the New York Stock Exchange

Talk Your Book: Talking Bonds at the New York Stock Exchange

On today's show recorded in person at the New York Stock Exchange, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Kay Herr and Rick Figuly of JP Morgan's Global Fixed Income, Currency, and Commodities group to discuss: JP Morgan's newest bond ETF offering, why JP Morgan chose the NYSE over other exchanges, what a securitized bond is and how they work, thoughts on interest rates, and much more! J.P. Morgan ETFs are distributed by JPMorgan Distribution Services, Inc. is a member of FINRA. J.P. Mor

Feb 12, 2024 • 40:24

The Holy Grail of Investing (EP.346)

The Holy Grail of Investing (EP.346)

On episode 346 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: concentration risk in the US stock market, economic dominance from the United States, when the Fed will cut rates, competing takes on the Apple Vision Pro, macro is hard, wage growth won't quit, why there are so many realtors, another investing book from Tony Robbins, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! Download your copy of their ETF research and don’t forget, get 20% off your initial YCharts P

Feb 7, 2024 • 1:10:02

Talk Your Book: Investing in Infrastructure

Talk Your Book: Investing in Infrastructure

On today's show, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined again by Bob Long, CEO of StepStone to discuss: - What investments StepStone is making within Infrastructure - How liquidity works with infrastructure investments - The inner workings of interval funds, StepStones fees, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedb

Feb 5, 2024 • 34:51

Gen Z Is on Fire (EP.345)

Gen Z Is on Fire (EP.345)

On episode 345 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the types of people you see on every flight in America, why new highs in the stock market are perfectly normal, why the Fed should cut rates even in a strong economy, this is more like the 1990s than the 1970s, young people are wealthier than you think, the biggest story about the economy no one is talking about, and much more! Kraneshares just released their latest content including their 2024 China outlook, 2024 Carbon

Jan 31, 2024 • 54:51

Talk Your Book: What's Going on in the Bond Market?

Talk Your Book: What's Going on in the Bond Market?

On this episode of Talk Your Book, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Alex Morris, CIO of F/m Investments to discuss: 2024 rate cut possibilities, the difficulty of forecasting, and why everyone got 2023 so wrong, utilizing spreads as a forecasting tool, why solving for corporate duration can be a useful risk management tool, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us a

Jan 29, 2024 • 37:21

New All-Time Highs! (EP.344)

New All-Time Highs! (EP.344)

On episode 344 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the average length of bull and bear markets, what's up with small cap stocks, $8.8 trillion in cash, no show China, the vibecession is over, the softening labor market, airline credit cards, 0% rate loans, the Bitcoin ETF, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! Get 20% off your initial YCharts Professional subscription at: https://go.ycharts.com/animal-spirits-referral Find complete show notes on

Jan 24, 2024 • 1:05:58

Talk Your Book: Live at FARMCON

Talk Your Book: Live at FARMCON

On this episode, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are live at FARMCON to discuss: the macro economy and inflation in 2023 and 2024, commodity trading with legendary trader Andy Daniels, how behavioral finance affects investment decisions, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas

Jan 22, 2024 • 1:12:04

The Cash-Returning Machine (EP.343)

The Cash-Returning Machine (EP.343)

On episode 343 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: setting return expectations moving forward, US Large Cap stocks generating a ton of cash, a bear market in used cars, an update on Bitcoin ETFs, Great Quarter Guys, driving in a blizzard, and much more. Thanks to Nasdaq ETFs and Fabric by Gerber Life for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about Nasdaq ETF offerings, visit: https://www.nasdaq.com/solutions/nasdaq-etf-listings For more about life insurance from Fabric,

Jan 17, 2024 • 1:03:41

Talk Your Book: Building Portfolios with AI

Talk Your Book: Building Portfolios with AI

On this episode, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined again by Chris Shuba, Founder and CEO of Helios Quantitative Research to discuss: the experience of a diversified investor in 2023, utilizing AI to build portfolios for advisors, Helios' latest trading service offering, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedb

Jan 15, 2024 • 31:43

The Fee War Comes to Crypto (EP.342)

The Fee War Comes to Crypto (EP.342)

On episode 342 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the biggest winners and losers of 2023 in the markets, short-term vs. long-term returns for stocks, why the U.S. dominates financial markets, the problem with being right once in a row, Bitcoin ETF fees, Americans are richer than you think and much more! Registration is open for Future Proof 2024! Secure your pass: here! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s Th

Jan 10, 2024 • 1:10:13

Talk Your Book: Reliable Monthly Payouts to Age 100

Talk Your Book: Reliable Monthly Payouts to Age 100

On today's show, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Nate Conrad, Head of LifeX to discuss: how LifeX can earn higher yields than US Treasuries, how payouts differ depending on investor age, utilizing the LifeX income fund within a portfolio, and much more! Past performance is not indicative of future results. The material discussed has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strat

Jan 8, 2024 • 35:13

2024 Predictions (EP.341)

2024 Predictions (EP.341)

On today's show we discuss 2023 market performance, a bunch of 2024 predictions, our favorite historical stock market return series, the high quality of restaurants, paying off your mortgage early, the downsides of behavioral finance, Ben's most cynical take of the year and much more. Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! Our very own Nick Maggiulli is joining YCharts' webinar on January 11th, to explore evolving market themes and potential challenges of the new year, register here:htt

Jan 3, 2024 • 1:02:41

What Will Perform Best in 2024? (EP.340)

What Will Perform Best in 2024? (EP.340)

On episode 340 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Christmas arguments, green shoots in prices, 1940s vs. 1970s inflation, why we're not worried about index funds, how to save & invest in middle age, why Bitcoin is the most extreme asset, celebrating no recession in 2023, why the U.S. economy is more resilient, some Christmas movie recommendations, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! Check out the YCharts webinar with Michael and Ben at: https:/

Dec 27, 2023 • 1:01:35

Talk Your Book: International Growth Investing

Talk Your Book: International Growth Investing

On this episode, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Todd Morris, International Growth Portfolio Manager and Analyst for Polen Capital to discuss: reasons for the valuation discrepancies between international stocks and US stocks, how the dollar affects international investments, understanding cultural differences when investing outside the US, position sizing within a concentrated portfolio, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sens

Dec 25, 2023 • 31:42

The Most Crowded Trade on Wall Street (EP.339)

The Most Crowded Trade on Wall Street (EP.339)

On episode 339 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: mission accomplished from the Fed, what comes after a soft landing, new highs in the stock market, small caps breaking out, the best thing we've built in America, more people own stocks than ever, the economic chart of the year, the best movie of the 2020s (so far), and much more! Thanks to AllianceBernstein and the College for Financial Planning—a Kaplan Company—for sponsoring this episode! To learn more about the Allia

Dec 20, 2023 • 1:15:38

Talk Your Book: What Is Private Credit?

Talk Your Book: What Is Private Credit?

On this episode of Talk Your Book, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by, Marco Hanig, Managing and Founding Principal of Alternative Fund Advisors and former Principal at AQR to discuss: the basics to Private Credit, the differences between a loan and a bond, why Private Credit is earning a premium yield, and much more! To learn more visit: https://alternativefundadvisors.com/ Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelev

Dec 18, 2023 • 36:30

Dunking on Doomers (EP.338)

Dunking on Doomers (EP.338)

On episode 338 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: good news on the economy, why the stock market loves lower inflation, did Elon Musk help kill inflation, getting bullish on consumer sentiment, Netflix won the streaming war, Rich Dad/Poor Readers, timing the housing market, and much more!Thanks to YCharts and the College for Financial Planning—a Kaplan Company—for sponsoring this episode! Secure a copy of "The Top 23 Charts of 2023" deck and remember, get 20% of

Dec 13, 2023 • 1:11:14

Talk Your Book: The Companies Are Fine

Talk Your Book: The Companies Are Fine

On today's Talk Your Book, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined by Alex Morris, CIO and President of F/m Investments to discuss: F/m Investments Opportunistic Income ETF, interest rate risk vs. credit risk, market cap weighting bonds, knowing when to sell a bond, and much more! Learn more about F/m Investments ETFs at: https://fmetfs.com/xfix/ Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an

Dec 11, 2023 • 31:15

The Ben Carlson Top (EP.337)

The Ben Carlson Top (EP.337)

On episode 337 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Charlie Munger, how much the Fed really matters, negativity bias in America, the blame game for inflation, why you don't invest based on the headlines, narratives on bond yields, doom spending in the economy, a quiet crypto boom, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Nuveen and Kaplan Schweser. Learn more about investing with Nuveen at: https://www.nuveen.com/en-us Check out Kaplan Schweser's CFA exam prep study pa

Dec 6, 2023 • 1:08:59

Talk Your Book: High Prices Cure High Prices

Talk Your Book: High Prices Cure High Prices

On today's Talk Your Book, Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick are joined again by Sal Gilbertie, CEO of Teucrium to discuss the golden grain cycle, the cost of production and expected long term returns for commodities, how everyone got the oil market wrong, how the US dollar affects the commodity market, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompound

Dec 4, 2023 • 34:48

$525k to be Happy (EP.336)

$525k to be Happy (EP.336)

On episode 336 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why people keep spending so much money, long droughts between new highs in the stock market, the best upside AI hedge, intelligence vs. pessimism, denominator blindness with inflation, most Americans are better off, why people are unhappy at work, when it will be a good time to buy a house again, and much more! Thanks to Victory Shares for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about their Free Cash Flow ETF at: https://adv

Nov 29, 2023 • 1:00:30

Talk Your Book: Strategic Income

Talk Your Book: Strategic Income

On this episode, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Nuveen Portfolio Manager Nick Travaglino to discuss the bond market, the Fed, fixed income yields, what's goin on with interest rates, and more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Check ou

Nov 27, 2023 • 32:36

You Can't Quantify Happiness (EP.335)

You Can't Quantify Happiness (EP.335)

On episode 335 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the blowout year for the Nasdaq 100, how experience shapes investment decisions, transitory inflation arguments, where prices have risen the most, who got the biggest wage gains, why housing prices refuse to crash, where to find affordable houses, why you can't trust sentiment surveys, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! Register for Michael and Ben's year-end wrap up at: https://ycharts.zoom.us

Nov 22, 2023 • 1:07:00

People Love to Complain (EP.334)

People Love to Complain (EP.334)

On episode 334 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the Fed's victory over inflation, what Americans get wrong about inflation, the price of iPhones is actually going down, when we get the first Fed rate cut, the rising unemployment rate, housing prices vs. recessions, Netflix movies, vests are overrated, and much more! Thanks to Amplify ETFs for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about their cash flow focused ETFs at: https://amplifyetfs.com/ Learn more about The Smoke

Nov 15, 2023 • 1:04:37

Talk Your Book: Bitcoin Fundamentals

Talk Your Book: Bitcoin Fundamentals

On today's show, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are joined by Chris Kuiper, Director of Research at Fidelity Digital Assets to discuss: fundamental reasons Bitcoin is outperforming in 2023, illiquid Bitcoin values and supply/demand affects on digital assets, what Ethereum's different layers represent, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoun

Nov 13, 2023 • 29:31

Finally, a Slowdown (EP.333)

Finally, a Slowdown (EP.333)

On episode 333 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the cooling labor market, why the 60/40 portfolio looks more attractive now, why the Fed is in a tough spot, why everyone hates this economy, how to become a millionaire, realtor commissions, reclining your seat on a plane, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode. Register for Michael and Ben's year-end wrap up at: https://ycharts.zoom.us/webinar/register/1316977225613/WN_ZwvEURfASPK06-zAxVKEWA  Fin

Nov 8, 2023 • 1:00:45

Talk Your Book: Betting on Duration

Talk Your Book: Betting on Duration

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Alex Morris, Co-Founder and CIO of the US Benchmark Series to discuss: making bets on duration, risks on the short and long end of the treasury curve, finding asymmetries in the fixed income market, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations,

Nov 6, 2023 • 33:26

The Biggest Rug Pull of Our Lives (EP.332)

The Biggest Rug Pull of Our Lives (EP.332)

On episode 332 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why so many people hate this economy, anecdotes vs. data, a depression in the mortgage industry, the good news about falling stock prices, small caps look cheap, consumers need a recession, and much more! Thanks to Kaplan Schweser for sponsoring this episode. Learn more about how they can help you prepare for the CFA at: https://www.schweser.com/cfa?utm_source=animal_spirits_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=infl_p

Nov 1, 2023 • 47:21

Talk Your Book: Investing in Luxury

Talk Your Book: Investing in Luxury

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Brendan Ahern, CIO of Kraneshares to discuss: the creation of Kraneshares Luxury ETF, demographic trends and utilizing the wealth affect, challenges in investing in international markets, luxury dynamics in a recession, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits@thecompoundnews.com with any feedback, questi

Oct 30, 2023 • 32:43

Higher for Longer (EP.331)

Higher for Longer (EP.331)

On episode 331 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: higher growth and higher rates vs. lower growth and lower rates, why there is so much focus on 60/40 portfolios, bears vs. doomers, the annoyance economy, why no one is happy about the economy right now (or ever), a record jump in net worth, renting vs. buying, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about their advisor resources and tax efficient investing, visit: https://go.ycharts.c

Oct 25, 2023 • 1:14:46

Talk Your Book: Equities With Guardrails

Talk Your Book: Equities With Guardrails

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Hamilton Reiner, MD, PM, and Head of US Equity Derivatives at J.P. Morgan Asset Management to discuss: how hedging ladders provide downside protection, the goal of the HELO ETF, hedged equity strategies vs traditional 60/40 portfolios, the impact of volatility on the strategy, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at a

Oct 23, 2023 • 31:03

Talk Your Book: The State of Venture Capital

Talk Your Book: The State of Venture Capital

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Samir Kaji, CEO, President, and Co-Founder of Allocate to discuss: what start-up prices look like today, if the free money era is gone forever, VC return dynamics and the power law, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future top

Oct 21, 2023 • 41:15

Does Government Debt Matter? (EP.330)

Does Government Debt Matter? (EP.330)

On episode 330 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: inflation coming down, the continued strength of the US consumer, Howard Marks on investing for a sea change, the risk-reward in bonds, what would happen if the US government paid off its debts, EMH in crypto, the worst case scenario for the housing market, and much more! Thanks to iShares for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about the iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX), visit: https://www.ishares.com/us/products/239

Oct 18, 2023 • 1:04:29

Talk Your Book: The All-In-One Home Equity Loan

Talk Your Book: The All-In-One Home Equity Loan

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Jason Anderson, Regional Vice President of Northpointe Bank NMLS# 243209 to discuss: the All-In-One Loan, how interest rates affect home equity lines of credit, who this product may or may not benefit, the dangers of financial engineering, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any fe

Oct 16, 2023 • 32:25

The Worst Bear Market Ever (EP.329)

The Worst Bear Market Ever (EP.329)

On episode 329 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: why long-term bond yields are rising, the worst bond market sell-off in history, when good news is bad news for the economy, continued strength in the labor market, boomers are holding up the economy, Michael Lewis book review, why millennials are more prepared for retirement, and much more! Today's episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts! Start your free trial and get 20% off your first subscription at: https://g

Oct 11, 2023 • 1:05:31

Talk Your Book: Investing in Music

Talk Your Book: Investing in Music

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by David Schulhof, Founder and CEO of MUSQ to discuss: what the MUSQ ETF is comprised of, whether or not the music industry is undervalued, the affect Taylor Swift is having on the economy, how AI and blockchain technology might impact the music industry, and much more! Learn more at: https://www.musqetf.com/    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot

Oct 9, 2023 • 36:05

Yolo Spenders (EP.328)

Yolo Spenders (EP.328)

On episode 328 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: crazy moves in US Treasuries, how prepared the consumer is for a recession, more positive data on inflation, Michael Lewis and the SBF situation, dark meat chicken, the best 80s movies, and much more! Nuveen has provided investment excellence for 125 years. Visit https://www.nuveen.com to learn more. The CFA Program is very difficult, but Kaplan Schweser can help you prepare. Visit https://www.schweser.com/ to learn more

Oct 4, 2023 • 57:54

Talk Your Book: Compounding Machine

Talk Your Book: Compounding Machine

Description: On today's show, we spoke with Eric Crittenden, CIO of Standpoint Asset Management to discuss: The creation and use of trend following, market changes over time, understanding what investors need vs. what they want, utilizing a mutual fund wrapper instead of an ETF, and much more! Learn more with the Monthly Update: https://www.standpointfunds.com/monthly-update and https://www.standpointfunds.com/ Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Mic

Oct 2, 2023 • 37:24

House Poor (EP.327)

House Poor (EP.327)

On today's show we discuss higher for longer, soft landings, why nothing has broken yet in the economy, where the housing bubbles are, why it's harder than ever to outperform the market, gambling vs. day trading, NFTs are worthless and much more! Today's episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts! Start your free trial and get 20% off your first subscription at: https://go.ycharts.com/animal-spirits-referral Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Mi

Sep 27, 2023 • 1:03:18

Talk Your Book: Where Leverage Comes From

Talk Your Book: Where Leverage Comes From

On today's show, we are joined by Ed Egilinsky, Managing Director and Head of Alternatives at Direxion to discuss: How leverage is created within leveraged ETFs, Why leveraged ETFs should not be held long-term, Investing in China, Using ETF flows as a trading signal, Direxions tactical commodity ETF, Diversifying Nasdaq exposure with equal weight ETFs, and much more! Learn More at: https://www.direxion.com/ Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael

Sep 25, 2023 • 32:15

Americans Love Borrowing Money (EP.326)

Americans Love Borrowing Money (EP.326)

On episode 326 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Future Proof, how markets have changed over the past 70 years, why allocations to stocks are higher than they were in the past, small caps vs. large caps, trading options vs. gambling on sports, why people spend more then they earn more, why the vibes are off in the economy, starter homes, and much more! Today's episode is sponsored by F/m Investments. Learn more about their ETF offerings at: https://fmetfs.com/ Find co

Sep 20, 2023 • 1:08:59

Talk Your Book: Customizing Alternatives

Talk Your Book: Customizing Alternatives

On today's show, we are joined again by Brett Hillard, CIO of GLASfunds to discuss: wealth managers vs. institutions investing in alternatives, how advisors are utilizing GLASfunds, investing in alts in a rising-rate environment, how private investments could be improved, and much more! Learn More at: https://glasfunds.com/    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritsp

Sep 18, 2023 • 31:17

Is Apple the Next IBM? (EP.325)

Is Apple the Next IBM? (EP.325)

On episode 325 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson are live at Future Proof! Duncan spills a Miami Vice and we discuss: what we actually do at RWM, if Apple is the next IBM, Canadian real estate, issues at ESPN, traveling to California, and much more! Today's episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts! Start your free trial and get 20% off your first subscription at: https://go.ycharts.com/animal-spirits-referral. Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Weal

Sep 13, 2023 • 43:56

Talk Your Book: The Macro Case for Crypto

Talk Your Book: The Macro Case for Crypto

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Jack Neureuter, Senior Research Analyst at Fidelity Digital Assets, and Ramine Bigdeliazari, Director of Product at Fidelity Digital Assets to discuss: - What the SEC ruling means for digital assets - How an ETF may affect the crypto ecosystem - The migration of talent within crypto - Macro changes and digital asset reactions, and much more! Learn More at: https://www.fidelitydigitalassets.com/    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlso

Sep 11, 2023 • 35:56

Talk Your Book: Need to Have Cars With Car Dealership Guy

Talk Your Book: Need to Have Cars With Car Dealership Guy

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined again by CarDealershipGuy to discuss: Ben's car leasing dilemma, leasing vs buying, why car prices have gotten so expensive, Tesla vs everyone, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Check out the late

Sep 9, 2023 • 34:07

The Market Cap of Taylor Swift (EP.324)

The Market Cap of Taylor Swift (EP.324)

On episode 324 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: one of the best years ever for the Nasdaq 100, people who want to see the financial system burn, getting back on trend with economic data, what if housing prices were just undervalued before the pandemic, Canada vs. Miami housing prices, why married people are happier, and much more! Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoo

Sep 6, 2023 • 1:01:46

Are You on Track For Retirement? (EP.323)

Are You on Track For Retirement? (EP.323)

On episode 323 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the outlook for a 60/40 portfolio, dollar cost averaging into a bear market, the evolution of retirement, the best age for making good financial decisions, the Fed cannot fix the housing market, how HGTV ruined housing prices, hedging climate change risk, and more! Today's episode is sponsored by AdvisorShares. Learn more about the AdvisorShares Dorsey Wright Short ETF (ticker: DWSH) at: https://advisorshares.com/etfs/dw

Aug 30, 2023 • 1:01:03

Talk Your Book: J.P. Morgan's Covered Call Strategies

Talk Your Book: J.P. Morgan's Covered Call Strategies

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Hamilton Reiner, MD, PM, and Head of US Equity Derivatives at J.P. Morgan Asset Management to discuss: how JEPI is constructed, how volatility affects yield, why JEPI has been so popular, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for futu

Aug 28, 2023 • 28:36

Rates to the Hilt (EP.322)

Rates to the Hilt (EP.322)

On episode 322 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: if bonds are more attractive than stocks right now, a lost decade for bonds, Michael Burry's track record, why the economy is so hard to predict right now, why streaming is underrated, the latest Netflix series, and much more! Today's episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts! Start your free trial and get 20% off your first subscription at: https://go.ycharts.com/animal-spirits-referral. Find complete show notes o

Aug 23, 2023 • 1:01:40

Talk Your Book: Customizing Your Assets

Talk Your Book: Customizing Your Assets

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Matt Radgowski, CEO of Halo Investing to discuss: customizing your assets, utilizing structured notes as a hedge, latest innovations in defined outcome products, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Aug 21, 2023 • 30:37

How Much is Happiness Worth? (EP.321)

How Much is Happiness Worth? (EP.321)

On episode 321 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: Ben's trip to NYC, stock market vs. bond market valuations, the 4% inflation scenario, why the consumer is so important, record home values (again), the power of home equity, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Franklin Templeton. To learn more about the Franklin U.S. Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF (LVHD), visit: https://www.franklintempleton.com/investments/capabilities/etfs If you'd like to apply for t

Aug 16, 2023 • 1:01:32

Talk Your Book: Large Cap Alpha

Talk Your Book: Large Cap Alpha

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Francisco Bido, Senior Portfolio Manager for the Integrated Alpha group of F/m Investments to discuss: screening companies, growth vs value investing, investing in Apple, avoiding Tesla, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for futur

Aug 14, 2023 • 29:45

Do Valuations Matter? (EP.320)

Do Valuations Matter? (EP.320)

On episode 320 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: bull market corrections, why valuations don't matter all that much, why people were so wrong about the stock market, why we haven't gotten a recession yet, $1 trillion in credit card debt, Robinhood's results, tipping at a hotel, and much more! Today's episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts. Re-imagine your portfolio research with the latest addition to your YCharts toolkit: Portfolio Optimizer. Start your free t

Aug 9, 2023 • 58:30

Talk Your Book: Compounding with Concentrated Portfolios

Talk Your Book: Compounding with Concentrated Portfolios

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by John Neff, Partner and Portfolio Manager of AKRE Capital Management to discuss: the AI investing craze, the creation of fundamental analysis, compounding returns with Warren Buffett, running a highly concentrated portfolio, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions

Aug 7, 2023 • 37:59

Everything is Up This Year (EP.319)

Everything is Up This Year (EP.319)

On episode 319 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the biggest behavioral bias in investing, the number of IPOs that survive, rolling the dice on the stock market, why the consumer doesn't care about higher rates, fiscal vs. monetary policy, some good news for first-time homebuyers, and much more! Register for Future Proof at: https://futureproof.advisorcircle.com/ Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irre

Aug 2, 2023 • 1:01:48

Talk Your Book: 100% Downside Protection

Talk Your Book: 100% Downside Protection

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Bruce Bond, Founder and CEO of Innovator ETFs to discuss: how 100% downside protection works, what upside you can earn with complete downside protection, who this product makes the most sense for, how rates and option premiums affect the strategy, and much more!    Find complete show notes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with

Jul 31, 2023 • 31:28

The Wealth Paradox (EP.318)

The Wealth Paradox (EP.318)

On episode 318 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the 2 types of bear markets, why everyone was wrong but the stock market was right about a recession, speculation vs. interest rates, real estate as an investment, why everyone underestimated the consumer, the unhealthy housing market rolls on, and much more! Today's episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts. Re-imagine your portfolio research with the latest addition to your YCharts toolkit: Portfolio Optimizer. St

Jul 26, 2023 • 1:06:55

Talk Your Book: Future Proof Festival

Talk Your Book: Future Proof Festival

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Matt Middleton, CEO and Co-Founder of Advisor Circle to discuss: how Advisor Circle was started, why conferences needed to change, Future Proof 2022 and changes coming for 2023, what value an advisor can get out of the festival, and much more!Learn more about Future Proof at: https://futureproof.advisorcircle.com/  Find complete shownotes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free

Jul 24, 2023 • 28:32

Recession Not Required (EP.317)

Recession Not Required (EP.317)

On episode 317 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: the stock market vs. the Fed's balance sheet, why expectations matter more than fundamentals in the short-run, the cruel irony of investing, how to hedge hyperinflation, why no one can claim victory on a soft landing, why the U.S. economy is so much bigger than the Eurozone, Dwight Schrute and the human condition, movies are back, and much more! Thanks to Argent Capital Management for sponsoring this episode. To learn mo

Jul 19, 2023 • 57:01

Talk Your Book: The Impact of a Bitcoin ETF

Talk Your Book: The Impact of a Bitcoin ETF

On today's show, we are joined again by Jack Neureuter, Research Analyst at Fidelity Digital Assets to discuss: knock-on affects of a spot Bitcoin ETF, the Grayscale discount, Bitcoin in bear markets vs bull markets, whether inflation is actually good for crypto, and much more!    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recomm

Jul 17, 2023 • 31:39

Is Twitter Dead? (EP.316)

Is Twitter Dead? (EP.316)

On episode 316 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss: when to get bullish on the long run, how to use sell side stock research, what's wrong with Disney, cruises are underrated, how the pandemic messed up historical economic relationships, 8% mortgage rates and 3% mortgage rates, why housing prices are still going up, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode. See their latest monthly market wrap for June. This is a monthly blog post where YCharts breaks

Jul 12, 2023 • 1:01:01

Is the Housing Correction Over? (EP.315)

Is the Housing Correction Over? (EP.315)

On episode 315 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss the stock market fighting the Fed, the power of index fund flows, the most trustworthy source of financial advice, an economic miracle in the United States, how to pick a bottom in stocks, people are desperate for a housing market crash, some thoughts on fireworks, and much more! Thanks to Future Proof for sponsoring this episode! Submit your Fintech Demo Drop application before July 7th here: https://9rcge6jsij8.typeform

Jul 5, 2023 • 51:54

Talk Your Book: Optimizing Your Credit Card Points

Talk Your Book: Optimizing Your Credit Card Points

On today's show, we are joined by Chris Hutchins, Host of All The Hacks Podcast to discuss: credit card point devaluation, the best cards to optimize spending, where you should book flights, transferring points for better redemptions, the best card for families, cash back on rent, and much more!    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback,

Jul 3, 2023 • 36:57

Why Crypto Needs BlackRock (EP.314)

Why Crypto Needs BlackRock (EP.314)

On episode 314 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss why the bond market isn't always the smart money, some more good news on the inflation front, why lifestyle inflation is at all-time highs, talking ourselves out of a boom, why smart people have a hard time admitting they are wrong, Bitcoin ETFs, credit card reward point inflation, the most charismatic actor of all-time, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! Check out YCharts' latest research on wh

Jun 28, 2023 • 55:16

Talk Your Book: Advisor Best Practices

Talk Your Book: Advisor Best Practices

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Chris Shuba, founder and CEO of Helios to discuss: ETFs vs. direct indexing, why differentiation matters for advisors, utilizing content to drive business, where the wealth management business goes from here, and much more!    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendation

Jun 26, 2023 • 38:49

Why Housing Prices Are So Expensive (EP.313)

Why Housing Prices Are So Expensive (EP.313)

On episode 313 of Animal Spirits, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss investor behavior in a bull market, how boomers fell in love with stocks, how the unemployment rate impacts stock market returns, why Americans love spending money so much, why down payments for houses are falling, how credit cards ruined the airport lounge, and much more! This episode is sponsored by JPMorgan. To learn more about the JPMorgan Nasdaq Equity Premium Income ETF (JEPQ), visit: https://am.jpmorgan.com/us/en/a

Jun 21, 2023 • 56:34

Talk Your Book: Internet Stocks with Income

Talk Your Book: Internet Stocks with Income

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Jonathan Shelon, COO of KraneShares to discuss internet growth in China, how to get exposure to China, how the KLIP ETF is able to generate high yields, risks involved with covered call strategies, cash flow rebalancing with KWEB, and much more!    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, que

Jun 19, 2023 • 38:32

Are Stocks Cheap? (EP.312)

Are Stocks Cheap? (EP.312)

On today's show Michael and Ben discuss the greatest company in history, why the bear market is over, why this might not be a new bull market, why the economy keeps humming along, what falling inflation means for the markets, why martinis are overrated, how much you should pay for a kids meal at a restaurant, and more! This episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts. Get 20% off your first subscription at: https://go.ycharts.com/animal-spirits-referral.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs.

Jun 14, 2023 • 1:04:08

Talk Your Book: The Electrification of America

Talk Your Book: The Electrification of America

On today's show, Michael and Ben are joined by Timothy Kramer, Founder and CEO of CNIC Funds to discuss investing in electricity, how CNIC Funds work, volatility in the energy market, what a suitable commodity exposure looks like, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future top

Jun 12, 2023 • 26:06

Is the Bear Market Over? (EP.311)

Is the Bear Market Over? (EP.311)

On today's show Michael and Ben discuss the beginning of a new bull market, increased concentration in the stock market, the worst housing market ever for buyers, a worrying trend in demographics, the biggest momentum investors on the planet, Brad Pitt and much more. Thanks to Birddogs for sponsoring this episode! Enter promo code "SPIRITS" and get a free Yeti style tumbler with every order: http://birddogs.com/spiritsFind complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense

Jun 7, 2023 • 58:20

Talk Your Book: Investing in Treasuries During a Debt Crisis

Talk Your Book: Investing in Treasuries During a Debt Crisis

On today's show, we spoke with Alex Morris, Founder and CIO of F/m Investments on how Treasury ETFs work, why the 1mo is yielding so much, how government defaults could affect treasuries, and much more! Visit https://www.ustreasuryetf.com/ to learn more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for f

Jun 5, 2023 • 29:20

Something Has to Break (EP.310)

Something Has to Break (EP.310)

On today's show, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss Ben's guiding philosophy on life and markets, why people buy and sell stocks at the wrong times, NVIDIA's crazy run, why the economy remains so resilient, historic income gains at the bottom, greedflation, The Succession finale and more. Thanks to STF Management for sponsoring this episode. Visit https://stfm.com/ to learn more about their ETFs.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick

May 31, 2023 • 56:22

Talk Your Book: Upside and Downside Customization For Your Portfolio

Talk Your Book: Upside and Downside Customization For Your Portfolio

On today's show, we are joined by Jason Barsema, Co-Founder and President of Halo Investing to discuss how structured notes are made, counterparty risk during banking crises, customizing structured notes, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Che

May 29, 2023 • 38:13

Tech Stocks Are Back (EP.309)

Tech Stocks Are Back (EP.309)

On today's show, Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson discuss the now-available Animal Spirits x Tropical Bros shirts, a great year for stocks (so far), Japan and Germany making new decade highs, US Government interest payments at all time highs, a postmortem on iBuyers, the end of the Cable bundle, AirBnb for cars, and much more! Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to register for the webinar with RWM COO Nick Maggiulli on May 24th at 12:30pm ET. Visit https://go.ycharts.com/anima

May 24, 2023 • 49:01

Talk Your Book: Streamlining Alternative Investments

Talk Your Book: Streamlining Alternative Investments

On today's show, we are joined by Brett Hillard, CIO of GLASfunds to discuss advisor pain points when investing in alts, the fund manager due diligence process, how interest rates affect the alternatives market, and much more!  Find complete shownotes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorFeel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of convers

May 22, 2023 • 33:55

Living a Rich Life with Ramit Sethi

Living a Rich Life with Ramit Sethi

On today's episode of Animals Spirits: Talk Your Book we are joined by Ramit Sethi to talk about his new Netflix Show, How to Get Rich. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Check out the latest in financial blogger fashion at The Compound shop: https://www.idont

May 20, 2023 • 32:42

The Only Game in Town (EP.308)

The Only Game in Town (EP.308)

On today's show we discuss debt ceiling drama, the best long-term investment, money market funds, catching a falling knife, 24 hour trading, why workers are happier than ever, the greatest wealth transfer in history, why wealth inequality will get worse, the best new movie we've seen in a long time and much more. Thanks to Global X ETFs for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about their thematic strategies, visit: https://go.globalxetfs.com/l/750543/2023-05-02/8y4fqmFind complete shownotes o

May 17, 2023 • 59:27

Talk Your Book: Fidelity Digital Assets Mailbag

Talk Your Book: Fidelity Digital Assets Mailbag

On today's show, we are joined by Jack Neureuter, Research Analyst at Fidelity Digital Assets to discuss what drives the price of Bitcoin, where to store Bitcoin, Bitcoin staying out of the headlines, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Check o

May 15, 2023 • 36:13

Business Optimism Crashes (EP.307)

Business Optimism Crashes (EP.307)

On today's show we discuss regional bank failures, confidence in the Fed, international diversification, the V-shaped recovery in the labor market, vibes vs. data in the economy, the best company in the world, middle age and much more. Thanks to YCharts for sponsoring this episode! YCharts will be discussing the Scenarios Tool with a big emphasis on how it helps streamline the financial planning process for advisors with RWM COO Nick Maggiulli on May 24th at 12:30pm ET. Register at: ht

May 10, 2023 • 1:05:28

Bear Market Lessons (EP.306)

Bear Market Lessons (EP.306)

On today's show, we discuss never shorting junk food, a purgatory market, why spending isn't slowing down, our first mortgage rates, the First Republic takeover, and much more! This episode is sponsored by Simplify. Learn more about Simplify ETFs at: https://www.simplify.us/etfs/svol-simplify-volatility-premium-etfFind complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com w

May 3, 2023 • 56:51

Talk Your Book: CLOs – The Providers of Leverage

Talk Your Book: CLOs – The Providers of Leverage

On today's show, we are joined by Thomas Majewski, Managing Partner of Eagle Point Credit Management to discuss what a CLO is, differences between a CLO and a CDO, how Eagle Point Credit is able to pay these yields, the 2023 banking crisis, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for

May 1, 2023 • 38:50

Millennials Will Buy All the Stocks (EP.305)

Millennials Will Buy All the Stocks (EP.305)

On today's show we discuss what happens to stocks after a bad year, why foreign stocks are outperforming, why any recession should be mild, how millennials will impact stock market valuations, generational homeownership rates and much more. This episode is sponsored by our friends at YCharts. Get 20% off your first subscription at: https://go.ycharts.com/animal-spirits-referral.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Inves

Apr 26, 2023 • 1:00:12

Talk Your Book: Diversify Your Diversifiers

Talk Your Book: Diversify Your Diversifiers

On today's show, we are joined by Paul Kim, CEO and Co-Founder of Simplify ETFs to discuss how rising yields affect alternative strategies, Simplify's interest rate hedge strategy, utilizing VIX strategies, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future top

Apr 24, 2023 • 33:14

The Crockpot Recession (EP.304)

The Crockpot Recession (EP.304)

On today's show we discuss why the bond market is so confused, why consumers are so confused, why Vanguard continues to dominate, why inflation is finally heading lower, why millennials aren't as broke as you think, why first-time homebuyers are out of luck and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 19, 2023 • 57:14

Talk Your Book: Hidden Pricing Power

Talk Your Book: Hidden Pricing Power

On today's show, we are joined by Haruki Toyama, Portfolio Manager and Head of Mid-Cap and Large-Cap Equity at Madison Investments to discuss finding wide moats, discovering hidden pricing power, using movie anecdotes to invest, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, o

Apr 17, 2023 • 31:53

The Year of Disappointment (EP.303)

The Year of Disappointment (EP.303)

On today's show, we discuss corrections during election years, rich boomers, how great AirBNB is, more issues at Twitter, Successions last season, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. ​​ (Wealthcast Media, an affiliate of R

Apr 12, 2023 • 51:05

Talk Your Book: Defining the Downside

Talk Your Book: Defining the Downside

On today's show, we are joined again by Bruce Bond to discuss Innovators latest fixed-income focused barrier ETFs, how rate volatility affects ETF yield, risk-reward in fixed-income, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Apr 10, 2023 • 28:21

The 3 Levels of Wealth (EP.302)

The 3 Levels of Wealth (EP.302)

On today's show we discuss why investors are always looking to catch a falling knife, a reversal in the markets since last year, why European stocks are outperforming, how money market funds became the biggest market story of the year, de-dollarization, some vacation thoughts from spring break and much more.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspir

Apr 5, 2023 • 46:40

Talk Your Book: No Bank Runs in Commercial Real Estate

Talk Your Book: No Bank Runs in Commercial Real Estate

On today's show, we spoke with Tom Miller, CEO and CIO of USQ to discuss real estate in Manhattan, the hottest sectors of commercial real estate, office space investing in the next few years, and much more! Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversati

Apr 3, 2023 • 33:22

Talk Your Book: Car Dealership Guy

Talk Your Book: Car Dealership Guy

On today's show, we are joined by CarDealershipGuy to discuss buying a car in 2023, buying v leasing, the downfall of Carvana, the electric car market, and much more! Find complete shownotes on our blogs...Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common SenseMichael Batnick’s The Irrelevant InvestorLike us on FacebookAnd feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.​​(Wealthcast Media, an affiliat

Apr 1, 2023 • 31:05

The Worst Chart in Finance (EP.301)

The Worst Chart in Finance (EP.301)

On today's show we discuss why investing is so hard, the time between all-time highs in a bear market, why the Fed is in such a tough spot, ramifications from the banking crisis, low supply in the housing market, why people think their children will be worse off, the psychology behind the AI boom and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at an

Mar 29, 2023 • 50:35

Talk Your Book: Startups in a Crisis

Talk Your Book: Startups in a Crisis

On today's show, we are joined by Brandon Arvanaghi, Founder and CEO of Meow, and Devon Drew, the CEO and CIO of DFD Partners to discuss tools for business owners and treasury cash management, and distribution solutions for advisors and asset managers.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommend

Mar 27, 2023 • 34:04

The Lender of Last Resort (EP.300)

The Lender of Last Resort (EP.300)

On today's show we discuss the latest from the banking crisis, the market's reaction to bank runs, what the Fed should do next, why service inflation is higher than goods inflation, why crypto is rallying this year, how much money it takes to be rich and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, que

Mar 22, 2023 • 54:27

Talk Your Book: How to Buy Treasuries

Talk Your Book: How to Buy Treasuries

On today's show, we are joined by Alex Morris, Co-Founder and CIO of F/m Investments and the US Benchmark Series to discuss yield volatility, why it's so hard to buy single treasuries, the 2023 banking crisis, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for fut

Mar 20, 2023 • 27:54

The Panic of 2023 (EP.299)

The Panic of 2023 (EP.299)

On today's show we discuss Silicon Valley Bank, the psychology of bank runs, how the Fed broke stuff, FDIC insurance, why the banking industry is forever changed, tech is the new Wall Street, why the bank crisis could be bullish for the stock market and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, ques

Mar 15, 2023 • 49:50

Talk Your Book: The Carrying Cost of Crazy

Talk Your Book: The Carrying Cost of Crazy

On today's show, we are joined by Dr. David Kelly, Chief Global Strategist and Head of the Global Market Insights Strategy Team for J.P. Morgan Asset Management about the SVB drama, interest rates moving forward, a slowdown of consumer spending, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, question

Mar 13, 2023 • 26:58

How Much Do You Need to Make to be Rich? (EP.298)

How Much Do You Need to Make to be Rich? (EP.298)

On today's show, we discuss reaction to Powells testimony, richsession in chart form, Silvergate drama, Michaels humble brags, Karen-Batnick, and much more!    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   (Wealthcast Media, an affiliate of Rithol

Mar 8, 2023 • 55:32

Talk Your Book: A Bull Market in Tickers

Talk Your Book: A Bull Market in Tickers

On today's show, we are joined by Ed Egilinsky, Managing Director and Head of Alternatives at Direxion to discuss how to use leveraged ETFs, the cost of leverage, exciting thematics in 2023, and much more! Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversatio

Mar 6, 2023 • 33:17

Talk Your Book: Lifetime Income

Talk Your Book: Lifetime Income

On today's show, we are joined by David Blanchett, Managing Director and Head of Retirement Research at Prudential to discuss how advisors should think about incorporating annuities, what annuities make sense for clients, income strategies within 401Ks, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback,

Mar 4, 2023 • 35:22

Are Bonds Competition For Stocks (EP.297)

Are Bonds Competition For Stocks (EP.297)

On today's show we discuss Michael's trip to Disney, the economy is too hot to not go into a recession, why inflation remains elevated, the junk stock rally, why housing prices aren't falling faster, an appreciation for streaming and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendatio

Mar 1, 2023 • 59:41

Talk Your Book: The "Tech Heavy" Nasdaq

Talk Your Book: The "Tech Heavy" Nasdaq

On today's show, we are live from the Exchange ETF conference in Miami with Phil Mackintosh, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President at Nasdaq to discuss where interest rates may go this year, if we're in a recession, IPO performance, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommenda

Feb 27, 2023 • 31:43

Talk Your Book: Investing in Quality Growth

Talk Your Book: Investing in Quality Growth

On today's show, we are joined by Kevin Walkush, Portfolio Manager at Jensen Investment Management to discuss how return on equity works, dealing with changing moats, setting expectations for returns, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topic

Feb 20, 2023 • 30:06

When Money Becomes a Liability (EP.296)

When Money Becomes a Liability (EP.296)

On today's show, we discuss if inflation is behind us, the AI bubble, popular strategies during a bear market, Fleishman in real life, parking spaces, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.      (Wealthcast Media, an affi

Feb 15, 2023 • 1:00:43

Talk Your Book: Bitcoin Doesn't Know It's Price

Talk Your Book: Bitcoin Doesn't Know It's Price

On today's show, we are joined by Jack Neureuter, Research Analyst at Fidelity Digital Assets to discuss a sentiment check with Bitcoin, use cases, a year in review for 2022, how Bitcoin has held up better than expected, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or id

Feb 13, 2023 • 31:34

Ready to Pop (EP.295)

Ready to Pop (EP.295)

On today's show we discuss the psychology behind big gains and losses, why retail traders are buying again, entertainment vs. advice with Jim Cramer, new bull market vs. bear market rally, value vs. growth. vs. rates, the strongest labor market of our lifetimes, tales from Miami and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com

Feb 8, 2023 • 50:21

Talk Your Book: The Prophet of Capital Preservation

Talk Your Book: The Prophet of Capital Preservation

On today’s show, we had Darren Schuringa, CEO and Founder of ASYMmetric ETFs on to discuss market volatility, how leverage works within leveraged ETFs, how ASYMmetric utilizes leverage and trend following, and much more! Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics

Feb 6, 2023 • 37:02

Benjamin Graham Disciple (EP.294)

Benjamin Graham Disciple (EP.294)

On today's show we discuss the stock and bond market rallies in 2023, why certain investors are so pessimistic all the time, housing market activity bottoming, the most hated economic expansion of all-time, context around tech layoffs, consumer spending is slowing, Michael's first resume and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiri

Feb 1, 2023 • 54:06

Talk Your Book: The Long and Short of Commodities

Talk Your Book: The Long and Short of Commodities

On today's show, we are joined by Sal Gilbertie, CEO of Teucrium to give us an update on Oil & Gas, how supply chains are looking in 2023, Teucriums latest Long/Short fund, potential issues with China, and much more! Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of

Jan 30, 2023 • 28:42

Is the Stock Market Getting Ahead of Itself? (EP.293)

Is the Stock Market Getting Ahead of Itself? (EP.293)

On today's show we discuss why the narrative changes for the economy on a weekly basis, the snapback rally in the stock market, trouble in the car market, the boom in entrepreneurship, putting tech layoffs into perspective, why the housing market might have a floor under it and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.co

Jan 25, 2023 • 59:09

Talk Your Book: The Biggest Short Squeeze of All Time

Talk Your Book: The Biggest Short Squeeze of All Time

On today's show, we are joined by Luke Oliver, Managing Director, Head of Climate Investments, and Head of Strategy at Kraneshares to discuss the biggest short of all time, how emissions are related to political risk, what drives carbon price, and much more!    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, re

Jan 23, 2023 • 36:08

Is a Soft Landing Inflationary? (EP.292)

Is a Soft Landing Inflationary? (EP.292)

On today's show we discuss why people still invest in stocks even when bond rates are high, international stocks are on a tear, the 60/40 argument that never dies, the Fed vs. the bond market, record high dividends in the stock market, why it's so hard to predict bottoms, Michael's NY Giants playoff game experience & much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us a

Jan 18, 2023 • 53:56

Talk Your Book: Investing in Fallen Angels

Talk Your Book: Investing in Fallen Angels

On today's show, we are joined by Fran Rodilosso, Head of Fixed Income ETF Portfolio Management at VanEck to discuss rising stars vs fallen angels, how to be tactical with fixed income, what a fallen angel is, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for fut

Jan 16, 2023 • 30:21

What's the negative catalyst? (EP.291)

What's the negative catalyst? (EP.291)

On today’s show we discuss Michael becoming famous for a Bezos prediction, the case for no recession in 2023, the bullish case for stocks, the bearish case for stocks, false signals from an inverted yield curve, why this is not 1970s-like inflation, 2023 movies and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any fe

Jan 11, 2023 • 54:28

Talk Your Book: What Makes an Index Fund Work

Talk Your Book: What Makes an Index Fund Work

On today's show, we are joined by Rodney Comegys, Head of Vanguards Equity Investment Group to discuss how indexing works, what makes Vanguard so special, active investing vs passive investing, and much more! Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversa

Jan 9, 2023 • 31:59

10 Predictions For 2023 (EP.290)

10 Predictions For 2023 (EP.290)

On today's show we discuss the terrible no good year that was 2022 for financial markets, some thoughts on what might happen in 2023, the 4 factors that should impact markets and the economy next year, why investors are still pouring money into Tesla shares, when luxuries turn into necessities and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animals

Jan 4, 2023 • 49:25

[CORRECTION] 	The Tesla Crash (EP.289)

[CORRECTION] The Tesla Crash (EP.289)

On this week's show we discuss the kid premium around the holidays, the most surprising things that happened in 2022, some thoughts on stocks vs. the economy for 2023, why consensus is wrong most of the time, the car industry is all messed up, why housing prices aren't falling faster, the year of the sequel and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot

Dec 28, 2022 • 43:12

The Tesla Crash

The Tesla Crash

On this week's show we discuss the kid premium around the holidays, the most surprising things that happened in 2022, some thoughts on stocks vs. the economy for 2023, why consensus is wrong most of the time, the car industry is all messed up, why housing prices aren't falling faster, the year of the sequel and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an

Dec 28, 2022 • 1:04:31

Talk Your Book: The Rise of Thematic Investing

Talk Your Book: The Rise of Thematic Investing

On today's show, we are joined by Pavel Vaynshtok, Managing Director, Global Head of Strategy Indices at S&P Dow Jones Indices to discuss the history of indices, why thematics have gotten so popular, how S&P Dow Jones Indices constructs their indices, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedba

Dec 26, 2022 • 27:28

Buy the Dip is Dead (EP.288)

Buy the Dip is Dead (EP.288)

On today's show we talk about why the stock market is getting crushed this month, what one year's returns mean for the next year, why retail investors are still buying tech stocks, 3 scenarios for next year's market, the Fed's 2% inflation target, why there will never be a perfect economy, the Avatar sequel and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot

Dec 21, 2022 • 53:29

Talk Your Book: The Opposite of ESG

Talk Your Book: The Opposite of ESG

On today's show, we are joined by Mark Neuman, Founder and CIO of Constrained Capital to discuss companies orphaned by ESG, how capital is actually getting constrained, politics in investing, Coke & Pepsi vs alcohol & tobacco, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommenda

Dec 19, 2022 • 37:11

Peak Inflation (EP.287)

Peak Inflation (EP.287)

On today's show we discuss inflation rolling over, the possibility of a soft landing, Santa Claus rallies, SPF getting arrested, what a housing market comeback would look like, picking stocks vs. picking stock-pickers, The White Lotus season 2 and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, ques

Dec 14, 2022 • 54:54

Talk Your Book: Insourced CIO

Talk Your Book: Insourced CIO

On today's show, we are joined by Joe Mallen, CIO of Helios to discuss what he's hearing from advisors in this environment, insourced vs outsourced CIOs, bond and equity attractiveness going forward, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future

Dec 12, 2022 • 29:01

A Bear Market in Housing (EP.286)

A Bear Market in Housing (EP.286)

On today's show we discuss continued strength in the labor market, sticky high inflation, why the market isn't listening to the Fed anymore, the case for a 20% decline in housing prices, why Netflix rules streaming, sending back a drink at the bar and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback,

Dec 7, 2022 • 46:55

Talk Your Book: An Update on Private Markets

Talk Your Book: An Update on Private Markets

On today's show, we are joined by Bob Long, CEO of StepStone Private Wealth to discuss timing private markets, how valuations have held up in private markets, an update on venture capital, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of c

Dec 5, 2022 • 35:33

Getting Rich Quick (EP.285)

Getting Rich Quick (EP.285)

On today's show we discuss the round trip in oil prices, why predicting the future is so difficult, how we define a bubble, why interest rates didn't go higher, active outflows are speeding up, Black Friday deals we found, crypto prices got out of hand, the downside of technology and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@g

Nov 30, 2022 • 55:26

Talk Your Book: The Buy-Write Strategy 

Talk Your Book: The Buy-Write Strategy 

On today's show, we are joined by Ray Di Bernardo, VP and Portfolio Manager of Madison Investments to discuss writing call options, buying growth at a reasonable price, earnings in 2023, and much more!    Find complete shownotes on our blogs...​ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense​ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor​ Like us on Facebook​ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future top

Nov 28, 2022 • 29:46

A Confusing Year (EP.284)

A Confusing Year (EP.284)

On today's show we discuss the impact of interest rates on business formation, the opposite of stagflation, why there was no spillover from the crypto crash, why the S&P 500 is not the economy, why remote work might bring down rental inflation and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...​ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense​ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor​ Like us on Facebook​ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedb

Nov 23, 2022 • 54:48

The Crypto Blow-Up (EP.283)

The Crypto Blow-Up (EP.283)

On today's show we discuss inflation is finally falling, will the stock market wait for the Fed's all-clear, the FTX saga, how SBF fooled everyone, what comes next for crypto, why streaming stocks are struggling, 5 years of Animal Spirits and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...​ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense​ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor​ Like us on Facebook​ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback,

Nov 16, 2022 • 55:29

Talk Your Book: Checking in on Buffered ETFs

Talk Your Book: Checking in on Buffered ETFs

On today's show, we have Bruce Bond, CEO of Innovator ETFs give us an update on the buffered ETFs, how buffers and caps behave during high-volatility environments, how advisors are using these products, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future t

Nov 14, 2022 • 34:16

Talk Your Book: Zillow for Farmland

Talk Your Book: Zillow for Farmland

On today's show, Ben and Michael are live from Fayetteville, Arkansas with AcreTrader Founder and CEO carter Malloy to discuss how ActreTrader is modernizing the farmland asset class, how macro-economic factors are affecting farmland, how Carter is growing AcreTrader, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any

Nov 12, 2022 • 38:24

No Soft Landing (EP.282)

No Soft Landing (EP.282)

On today's episode we discuss the Fed sending us into a recession, our only chance for a soft landing, why predicting inflation is so difficult, why there is no such thing as a normal market, the biggest risk in crypto, why Chevy Chase was a one of one and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback,

Nov 9, 2022 • 55:55

A Housing Recession (EP.281)

A Housing Recession (EP.281)

On today's show we discuss why most people don't care about the bear market, the relationship between wages and inflation, why we won't see a repeat of the 1970s, why Apple is the best company in the world, the revenge of the Dow, tech stock valuations, the best decade ever for movies and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirit

Nov 2, 2022 • 1:02:13

Talk Your Book: Doubling Down on Crypto

Talk Your Book: Doubling Down on Crypto

Ben and Michael are joined by Jack Neureuter, Fidelity Digital Assets Research Analyst, and Ramine Bigdeliazari, Director of Product for Fidelity Digital Assets to discuss Fidelity's relationship and interest in crypto, proof of work vs proof of stake, crypto winter, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com wit

Oct 31, 2022 • 48:33

Bear Market Math (EP.280)

Bear Market Math (EP.280)

On today's show we discuss the slowing housing market, taking Animal Spirits on the road, why consumers keep spending money, how the stock market moves during a bear market, some optimism for a 60/40 portfolio, why the 4% rule is still alive and well, a bunch of movie recommendations and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirits

Oct 26, 2022 • 55:34

Talk Your Book: It's Good To Be the Bank

Talk Your Book: It's Good To Be the Bank

On today's show, we have Brian Dally, Co-Founder, and CEO of Groundfloor back on the show to discuss the Groundfloor platform, how Groundfloor evaluates developers, how real estate developers are doing in this environment, and Groundfloors crowdfunding activity.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questi

Oct 24, 2022 • 35:37

Why Isn't Inflation Falling? (EP.279)

Why Isn't Inflation Falling? (EP.279)

On today's show we discuss the trouble with nailing the bottom in a bear market, why money continues flowing into ARK, why the VIX isn't higher, sticky inflation, why the bottom 50% has seen their net worth double since the start of the pandemic, Netflix with ads and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with an

Oct 19, 2022 • 1:02:16

Talk Your Book: Breaking the Housing Market

Talk Your Book: Breaking the Housing Market

On today's show, we had Ben Miller, Co-Founder and CEO of Fundrise back on the show to give us an update on the rental market, the knock-on effects of 7-8% mortgage rates, a brewing housing shortage, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics

Oct 17, 2022 • 30:03

A Tough Break (EP.278)

A Tough Break (EP.278)

On today's show we discuss a late-night trip to the ER for a broken leg, good news is bad news in the labor market, the last time the Fed sent us into a recession, earnings vs. stock market performance, the inflation burp, what happens to housing prices from here and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with an

Oct 12, 2022 • 56:11

Talk Your Book: Investing in Private Credit 

Talk Your Book: Investing in Private Credit 

On today's show, we speak with Michael Reisner, Co-CEO of CION Investments about investing in private credit in this environment, how CION can be publicly traded, how a recession may affect floating rate credit investments, and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or

Oct 10, 2022 • 29:31

Long-Term Bullish (EP.277)

Long-Term Bullish (EP.277)

On this week's show we discuss why we're getting more excited about stock prices as they fall, why expected returns are rising, where investors will move their money with higher yields, Credit Suisse vs. Lehman Brothers, how the Fed is breaking things across the globe, why the Bank of England stepped in to buy bonds and much more.   Learn More  Follow Ted on Twitter at @tseides or LinkedIn  Subscribe to the mailing list  Access Transcript with Premium Membership  Learn more about your ad choic

Oct 5, 2022 • 58:13

Talk Your Book: Investing in Science Fiction

Talk Your Book: Investing in Science Fiction

On today's show, we are joined by Kevin Kelly, CEO and Founder of Kelly Intelligence to discuss what CRISPR technology is, use cases, and investing in the future of Healthcare 2.0.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more ab

Oct 3, 2022 • 33:35

Powell Wants You to Lose Your Job (EP.276)

Powell Wants You to Lose Your Job (EP.276)

On today's show we discuss is the Fed making a huge mistake, why it's so difficult to predict the economy, why it's so easy to be bearish right now, breaking the housing market, why we've turned on Jerome Powell, the bullish case for a 60/40 portfolio and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, que

Sep 28, 2022 • 58:19

Talk Your Book: I Need To Do Some Hedging Trades

Talk Your Book: I Need To Do Some Hedging Trades

On today's show, we spoke with Eric Metz, President and CIO of SpiderRock Advisors about tax-loss harvesting, replicating exchange funds, and de-concentrating portfolios using managed option strategies.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conver

Sep 26, 2022 • 29:19

Is a Recession Bullish? (EP.275)

Is a Recession Bullish? (EP.275)

On today's episode we recap our experience at Future Proof, interest rates vs. inflation for the stock market, a blow-off top in short-term rates, what could cause international stocks to outperform, housing inflation, why the housing market is broken, George Clooney's best movie and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@

Sep 21, 2022 • 54:22

Talk Your Book: Portfolio Premortem

Talk Your Book: Portfolio Premortem

On today's show, we spoke to Fabric Risk Co-Founder, Rick Bookstaber about identifying risks for advisors, lifestyle characteristics and risks, the MSCI factor model, scenario testing, and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation

Sep 19, 2022 • 31:00

Live From Future Proof (EP.274)

Live From Future Proof (EP.274)

On today's show, we discuss the worst first 8 months ever, the illiquidity premium, Q2 earnings, The Robinhood Investor Index, and much more!   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm

Sep 14, 2022 • 37:12

Talk Your Book: Single Stock ETFs

Talk Your Book: Single Stock ETFs

On today's show, we had David Mazza, Head of Product at Direxion to talk about the use cases and risks of investing in single stock, leveraged, and inverse ETFs Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Vi

Sep 12, 2022 • 29:39

Talk Your Book: Fixing Fixed Income

Talk Your Book: Fixing Fixed Income

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke to Russell Feldman from IMTC on innovating the fixed income investment process, differences between trading stocks vs. bonds, risk management within fixed income, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topic

Sep 9, 2022 • 25:17

The Super Bubble (EP.273)

The Super Bubble (EP.273)

On today's show we discuss Jeremy Grantham's super bubble call, how "don't fight the Fed" has evolved, why all opinions are extreme today, how the bottom 50% are making the biggest financial progress, how the Fed screwed up the housing market and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, reco

Sep 7, 2022 • 47:05

Talk Your Book: Interest Rates and Volatility

Talk Your Book: Interest Rates and Volatility

On today's show, we spoke with Jason Barsema about the ins and outs of structured notes, how downside protection works, when it makes sense to use structured notes, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more abo

Sep 5, 2022 • 33:20

Why So Bearish? (EP.272)

Why So Bearish? (EP.272)

On today's who we discuss the pros and cons of student loan forgiveness, why the Fed has the ability to talk tough about inflation (for now), the difference between being bearish and being realistic, record high corporate profits, why we're never going to get enough homes built and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gm

Aug 31, 2022 • 52:02

Talk Your Book: Investing in China

Talk Your Book: Investing in China

On today's show, we spoke with Brendan Ahern to give us an update on China, Chinese stock listing issues, investing in China's largest companies, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices.

Aug 29, 2022 • 35:54

Price Drives Narrative (EP.271)

Price Drives Narrative (EP.271)

On this week's show we discuss the ever-changing narratives in the stock market and economy, iron-clad rules of investing, why markets are so confusing right now, a wider bid-ask spread in the housing market, crypto's LTCM moment and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendatio

Aug 24, 2022 • 57:07

The Animal Spirits Indicator (EP.270)

The Animal Spirits Indicator (EP.270)

On this week’s show, we discuss Ben’s trip to Long Island, some good news on inflation, Disney’s sky-high inflation, confusing signals in the economy, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad cho

Aug 17, 2022 • 45:46

Soft Landing (EP.269)

Soft Landing (EP.269)

On this weeks show we discuss the stock market's ability to predict a recession, the hot labor market, wages vs. inflation, the prospect for a soft landing in the economy, Robinhood vs. Coinbase, volatility in the mortgage market, a bunch of movie recs and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback,

Aug 10, 2022 • 56:03

Talk Your Book: Choose Your Own Investments

Talk Your Book: Choose Your Own Investments

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Composer founder Ben Rollert about creating your own automated investment strategies.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 8, 2022 • 34:30

Invest in What You Know (EP.268)

Invest in What You Know (EP.268)

On today's show we discuss the recession debate, why the economy is so confusing right now, calling a stock market bottom (or not), the tech stock comeback, earnings season and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn mo

Aug 3, 2022 • 51:43

Listener Mailbag

Listener Mailbag

On today's show we answer questions straight from the listeners with some help from Rocket Dollar's Henry Yoshida.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 1, 2022 • 37:09

Looking Back at the Crypto Meltdown

Looking Back at the Crypto Meltdown

On today's show, we get an update on crypto from Meow CEO Brandon Arvanaghi and take a look at what happened with the recent crypto meltdowns.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.f

Jul 30, 2022 • 24:36

Redefining a Recession (EP.267)

Redefining a Recession (EP.267)

On today's show we discuss why the middle class is getting squeezed, why it's so hard to define what a recession is, boring stocks are outperforming, the size of the housing market, why negotiating will be making a comeback, spending time alone and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questio

Jul 27, 2022 • 56:44

Talk Your Book: Investing in Whiskey and Wine

Talk Your Book: Investing in Whiskey and Wine

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Vinovest founder Anthony Zhang about investing in spirits.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jul 25, 2022 • 33:28

What's Going On at BlockFi?

What's Going On at BlockFi?

On today's show we spoke with Zac Prince from BlockFi to discuss everything that's going on with the company and the crypto space in general.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jul 21, 2022 • 48:30

Extreme Cost Cutting (EP.266)

Extreme Cost Cutting (EP.266)

On today's show we discuss peaking inflation, confused banks, whys stocks are the best inflation hedge, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 20, 2022 • 56:01

Talk Your Book: Real Estate & Innovation

Talk Your Book: Real Estate & Innovation

On today's show we talked with Fundrise founder Ben Miller about the real estate industry as well as the firm's new tech fund.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jul 18, 2022 • 33:38

Volatility Hits Main Street (EP.265)

Volatility Hits Main Street (EP.265)

On today's show we discuss stocks for the long run, Elon's Twitter debacle, the labor market vs. inflation, the number of cycles we've experienced since the pandemic, peak inflation and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Lea

Jul 13, 2022 • 52:56

Talk Your Book: The State of Commodities

Talk Your Book: The State of Commodities

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Sal Gilbertie from Teucrium about the state of agricultural commodities. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 11, 2022 • 28:54

Talk Your Book: The State of Venture Capital

Talk Your Book: The State of Venture Capital

On today's show, we discuss similarities between the late 90s and today, how tough it is to get VC exposure, current market dynamics within the private markets, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about y

Jul 9, 2022 • 42:24

The Pandemic Broke the Economy (EP.264)

The Pandemic Broke the Economy (EP.264)

On today's show we talk about why the first 6 months of the year were one of the worst ever for financial markets, why it's so difficult to gauge the economy right now, what's priced into the stock market, the worst earnings call ever, the psychology behind inflation and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any

Jul 6, 2022 • 53:42

Talk Your Book: The Bull Market in Stupidity

Talk Your Book: The Bull Market in Stupidity

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Michael Grant from Calamos Investments about the Fed, the economy and managing a long/short fund in this environment   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Vi

Jul 4, 2022 • 32:51

Are We Sure a Recession is Coming? (EP.263)

Are We Sure a Recession is Coming? (EP.263)

On today's show we discuss stock market return expectations, the sell-off in commodities, the back and forth on recession predictions, fighting the last war on the economy, why crypto crashed so bad, negotiating your cable bill down and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendation

Jun 29, 2022 • 54:14

Talk Your Book: Expanding Access to Private Markets

Talk Your Book: Expanding Access to Private Markets

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Bob Long of Conversus about giving financial advisors access to investments in private markets.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adch

Jun 27, 2022 • 33:40

Peak Pessimism (EP.262)

Peak Pessimism (EP.262)

On today's show we discuss how wild and crazy the past 3 years have been in the markets, why the Fed is in such a precarious position, the number of stocks getting hammered, the Warren Buffett of crypto, the most re-watchable movie of all-time and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, rec

Jun 22, 2022 • 46:25

Talk Your Book: A New Way to Invest in Real Estate

Talk Your Book: A New Way to Invest in Real Estate

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Jesse Daugherty of Lex Markets about investing in commercial real estate and what it means to be an investment bank for commercial properties.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jun 20, 2022 • 29:47

The Fed is Being Punished (EP.261)

The Fed is Being Punished (EP.261)

On this week's show we discuss the current market sentiment, the official bear market in U.S. stocks, why the Fed is making a mistake, the insane move higher in interest rates, the crypto winter and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversati

Jun 15, 2022 • 51:10

Talk Your Book: High Quality Growth Stocks

Talk Your Book: High Quality Growth Stocks

On today's show we spoke with Allen Bond from Jensen Investment Management about finding high quality growth stocks and investing during a bear market.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit me

Jun 13, 2022 • 33:45

Good News is Bad News (EP.260)

Good News is Bad News (EP.260)

On today's show we discuss why everyone thinks we're already in a recession, living paycheck to paycheck on $250k a year, why crypto makes more sense in a bull market, why it feels like the stock market should be down way more, Top Gun: Maverick and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, r

Jun 8, 2022 • 58:56

Talk Your Book: Hedging the Different Types of Inflation

Talk Your Book: Hedging the Different Types of Inflation

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Don Casturo from Quantix Commodities and Kristof Gleich from Harbor Capital to discuss how to hedge inflation with commodities.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad

Jun 6, 2022 • 32:21

The Round Trip (EP.259)

The Round Trip (EP.259)

On today's show we discuss what the narrative would be if we went back to new highs, why high oil prices are so worrisome, why the housing market is more important than the stock market, some good news about the U.S. economy, the new Top Gun and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recom

Jun 1, 2022 • 42:54

Talk Your Book: Investing in Single-Family Rentals

Talk Your Book: Investing in Single-Family Rentals

On today's Talk Your Book we talked to Joe Ollis from The Peak Group about investing in the single-family housing rental market.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

May 30, 2022 • 33:20

The most obvious recession ever (EP.258)

The most obvious recession ever (EP.258)

On today's show we discuss, the big housing miss, inventory build-ups, private market slowdown, and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 25, 2022 • 51:44

Animal Spirits: Listener Mailbag

Animal Spirits: Listener Mailbag

On today’s show we answer questions from the listeners on Roth IRAs, HELOCs, budgeting for home improvements and more with some help from Henry Yoshida at Rocket Dollar.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍ Learn more about your ad

May 23, 2022 • 35:18

Obvious Signs of the Top (EP.257)

Obvious Signs of the Top (EP.257)

On today's show we discuss why markets are so confusing right now, the different kinds of recessions, inflation expectations, how to survive a bear market, the best movie sequels ever and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍

May 18, 2022 • 50:59

Talk Your Book: Investing in the Carbon Transformation

Talk Your Book: Investing in the Carbon Transformation

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Roger Mortimer from KraneShares about the coming global transformation in carbon investing.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoice

May 16, 2022 • 30:31

Talk Your Book: Locking in Higher Yields on Your Portfolio

Talk Your Book: Locking in Higher Yields on Your Portfolio

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Jason Barsema from Halo Investing about structured products and defined outcome investing.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 14, 2022 • 34:08

The End of V-Shaped Recoveries (EP.256)

The End of V-Shaped Recoveries (EP.256)

On today's Animal Spirits we discuss the growth stock crash getting worse, the speed of market declines, building wealth slowly, how long bear markets last for, Liam Neeson and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍ Learn more

May 11, 2022 • 49:48

Talk Your Book: Art as an Alternative Investment

Talk Your Book: Art as an Alternative Investment

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Masterworks founder and CEO Scott Lynn about investing in contemporary art.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍

May 9, 2022 • 30:20

Is this a bear market? (EP.255)

Is this a bear market? (EP.255)

On today's show, we discuss the stock and bond markets both falling, the new 60/40 portfolio, the case for buying a house right now, the greatest stock of all-time, and much more. Register for the YCharts Webinar: Mega Caps with Michael Batnick: The Real Impact of Mega Cap Stocks on Portfolios - https://ycharts.zoom.us/webinar/register/9016509832428/WN_PRXthCpDSKOJJ_uVAxNcXw   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Invest

May 4, 2022 • 44:19

Talk Your Book: Rethinking the 4% Rule

Talk Your Book: Rethinking the 4% Rule

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with David Lau and Wade Pfau about spending down your assets in retirement and why it's one of the hardest concepts in financial planning.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍   Learn more about

May 2, 2022 • 36:35

Elon Buys Twitter (EP.254)

Elon Buys Twitter (EP.254)

On today's show we discuss what Elon Musk can do with Twitter, bonds & stocks falling together, growth stocks keep getting killed, inflation vs. mortgage rates in the housing market, 3 reasons inflation might be peaking and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas fo

Apr 27, 2022 • 45:47

Talk Your Book: Investing in Human Capital

Talk Your Book: Investing in Human Capital

On today's Talk Your Book we talk with Dan Ariely and Kristof Gleich about investing in human capital and corporate culture.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 25, 2022 • 31:52

A Recession is Coming (EP.253)

A Recession is Coming (EP.253)

On today's show we discuss taking Twitter private, why tech billionaires are so unhappy, why no one is positioned for a commodities supercycle, the best pool drink, a normal housing market and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation

Apr 20, 2022 • 51:20

Talk Your Book: When Will the Housing Market Normalize?

Talk Your Book: When Will the Housing Market Normalize?

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Ben Miller from Fundrise about the impact of rising mortgage rates, labor shortages, supply shortages on the housing market.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.‍

Apr 18, 2022 • 29:20

The Fed is Making a Mistake (EP.252)

The Fed is Making a Mistake (EP.252)

On today's show we discuss the crazy move higher in interest rates, the wealth effect in stocks, recessions vs. inflation, wage growth for lower income levels, Elon Musk's Twitter escapades, owning individual bonds vs. bond funds and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...‍ Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense‍ Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor‍ Like us on Facebook‍ And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendatio

Apr 13, 2022 • 40:42

Talk Your Book: The Financial Advisor's Cheat Code

Talk Your Book: The Financial Advisor's Cheat Code

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Josh Smith from VRGL about how his company is making it easier for financial advisors to bring in new business and understand their clients.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more

Apr 11, 2022 • 27:07

Long Global, Short USA (EP.251)

Long Global, Short USA (EP.251)

On today's show we discuss Elon Musk's new position in Twitter, Tiger Global, the scalding hot labor market, frugality is not always the way, the Animal Spirits Discord channel and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Learn m

Apr 6, 2022 • 45:53

Talk Your Book: Investing in mRNA

Talk Your Book: Investing in mRNA

On today's Talk Your Book, we talked with Dave Mazza from Direxion about investing in mRNA technology.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 4, 2022 • 24:33

Tighten Until Something Breaks (EP.250)

Tighten Until Something Breaks (EP.250)

On today's show we discuss inflation vs. the stock market, bonds getting killed, the crazy housing market, betting on the Oscars, why Twitter was built for pop culture moments and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Learn mo

Mar 30, 2022 • 48:05

Talk Your Book: Protecting the Downside

Talk Your Book: Protecting the Downside

On today's Talk Your Book we had Bruce Bond from Innovator ETFs back on the show to discuss how advisors are using managed and buffered ETFs to protect the downside in their portfolios.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn

Mar 28, 2022 • 28:41

NFTs

NFTs

On today's show we speak with Audiograph's Quinn Stearns about start-ups, founding a company, creating communities for podcasts and why we made Animal Spirits NFTs.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more about your ad c

Mar 26, 2022 • 28:12

Can the Markets Cause a Recession (EP.249)

Can the Markets Cause a Recession (EP.249)

On this week's show we discuss the crazy moves in interest rates, mortgage rates going much higher, how to think about bond yields right now, why the U.S. consumer will keep spending even with higher prices, the housing market is very unhealthy right now, betting on the Oscars and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with a

Mar 23, 2022 • 46:42

Listener Mailbag

Listener Mailbag

On today's show we clean out the inbox to answer questions from the listeners about Roth IRAs, producing content, international diversification, asset allocation, leveraged ETFs and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Lea

Mar 21, 2022 • 39:55

Is a Recession Bullish For Tech Stocks? (EP.248)

Is a Recession Bullish For Tech Stocks? (EP.248)

On today's show we discuss the probability for a recession, crazy commodities prices, housing as a commodity, rising mortgage rates, why dogs are so awesome, the new Batman movie and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Learn

Mar 16, 2022 • 48:11

Talk Your Book: How Advisors Can Manage 401k Accounts

Talk Your Book: How Advisors Can Manage 401k Accounts

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Dave Goldman from Pontera about helping advisors manage held away accounts for clients. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adcho

Mar 14, 2022 • 27:15

Talk Your Book: The Craziest Commodities Market Ever

Talk Your Book: The Craziest Commodities Market Ever

On today's special edition of Talk Your Book, we spoke with Sal Gilbertie from Teucrium Agriculture ETFs about what's going on in the commodities market. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

Mar 12, 2022 • 31:47

More Sellers Than Buyers (EP.247)

More Sellers Than Buyers (EP.247)

On this week's show we discuss a bear market brewing in the stock market, the stock market now vs. 1900, the impact of higher gas prices on consumer sentiment, crazy commodities prices, energy stocks, housing prices and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future

Mar 9, 2022 • 41:22

Talk Your Book: Regulating Crypto

Talk Your Book: Regulating Crypto

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with BlockFi CEO Zac Prince about the company's recent SEC regulations, what it means for the company going forward and the promise for crypto in an unstable world.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversat

Mar 7, 2022 • 29:22

The Financial Rails of the Future

The Financial Rails of the Future

On today's show we spoke with Meow co-founder Brandon Arvanaghi about how companies and advisors can earn higher yields on their cash in crypto. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone

Mar 5, 2022 • 25:28

A Moral Margin Call  (EP.246)

A Moral Margin Call  (EP.246)

On today's show we discuss investing during a war, the biggest questions we have right now, why it's impossible to predict the future, the rising potential for a financial crisis, how to win during a market correction and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future

Mar 2, 2022 • 51:47

Talk Your Book: Farming with Factors

Talk Your Book: Farming with Factors

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Carter Malloy from Acre Trader about investing in farmland. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Feb 28, 2022 • 31:29

The Craziest Housing Market Ever (EP.245)

The Craziest Housing Market Ever (EP.245)

On today's Animal Spirits, we discuss the growth stock sell-off getting real, differences between now and the end of the dot-com bubble, why savings account yields aren't going up yet, inequality in the housing market, the best time to buy a house and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, r

Feb 23, 2022 • 44:47

Talk Your Book: Managing Risk Like an Actuary

Talk Your Book: Managing Risk Like an Actuary

On today's Talk Your Book, we had Julian Koski from New Age Alpha back on to explain the H Factor and how it helps evaluate individual stocks. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.f

Feb 21, 2022 • 30:13

Starting a Crypto Hedge Fund

Starting a Crypto Hedge Fund

On today's show we spoke with Leigh Drogen from Starkiller Capital about starting a crypto hedge fund. Find complete shownotes on our blogs...  Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense  Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor  Like us on Facebook  And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 19, 2022 • 33:47

Boomflation or a Recession? (EP.244)

Boomflation or a Recession? (EP.244)

On this week's show we discuss the latest inflation numbers, the Fed's conundrum, why corporations have the upper hand with inflation, bullish on Disney, BlockFi's SEC fine and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Learn more

Feb 16, 2022 • 57:04

Talk Your Book: Accessing Commercial Real Estate

Talk Your Book: Accessing Commercial Real Estate

On today's show, the guys are joined again by Ryan Williams to talk about how investors can get access to institutional-quality commercial real estate.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Feb 14, 2022 • 29:50

Inflation at Disney World (EP.243)

Inflation at Disney World (EP.243)

On today's show we talk about the huge moves after earnings, why people don't change their consumption habits, Ben's trip to Disney World, and much more   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphon

Feb 9, 2022 • 51:38

Talk Your Book: Disruption as an Asset Class

Talk Your Book: Disruption as an Asset Class

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Kristof Gleich and Spenser Lerner from Harbor Capital about owning and managing portfolios with innovation stocks.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. V

Feb 7, 2022 • 39:11

Stocks Work Best at Night (EP.242)

Stocks Work Best at Night (EP.242)

On today's show we discuss the market correction, why stock-picking is so difficult, small caps in a bear market, Bitcoin to $1 million, the Fed inverting the yield curve and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your

Feb 2, 2022 • 52:40

Listener Mailbag

Listener Mailbag

On today's episode we answer questions from the listeners with a little help from Rocket Dollar CEO Henry Yoshida.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 31, 2022 • 40:49

Talk Your Book: Reinventing the American Dream

Talk Your Book: Reinventing the American Dream

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with EasyKnock CEO Jarred Kesler about helping people tap their home equity.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jan 29, 2022 • 28:55

A Lightning Fast Correction (EP.241)

A Lightning Fast Correction (EP.241)

On this week's show we discuss what we love about market corrections, why people assume they can guess what comes next with the stock market, parallels between the growth stock sell-off and the end of the Go-Go Years, the crypto crash and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendation

Jan 26, 2022 • 55:32

Talk Your Book: Where to Find Yield on Your Cash

Talk Your Book: Where to Find Yield on Your Cash

On today's Talk Your Book, had had Brian Dally from Groundfloor back on the show to discuss their new Stairs app and how to earn higher yields by investing in real estate debt.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jan 24, 2022 • 28:58

25 Million New Brokerage Accounts (EP.240)

25 Million New Brokerage Accounts (EP.240)

On this week's show we discuss the retail investor takeover of the stock market, ARKK's performance woes, the impact of higher mortgage rates on the housing market, peak Silicon Valley and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn mo

Jan 19, 2022 • 53:01

Talk Your Book: Investing in Sustainability

Talk Your Book: Investing in Sustainability

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Jim Madden from Calamos Investments about ESG investing and how it's changing the investment landscape.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/

Jan 17, 2022 • 26:43

Is the Fed Trapped? (EP.239)

Is the Fed Trapped? (EP.239)

On today's show we discuss 3 bearish scenarios for the stock market, why the Fed could be in a tight spot, growth stocks getting wrecked, the next step for NFTs, critics vs. the audience on Rotten Tomatoes and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topi

Jan 12, 2022 • 53:18

Talk Your Book: Options Are Eating the Stock Market

Talk Your Book: Options Are Eating the Stock Market

On today's show we had Paul Kim from Simplify ETFs back on to discuss how RIAs are dealing with a low interest rate environment, dipping your toe into crypto, using options and leverage responsibly in a portfolio and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future

Jan 10, 2022 • 33:11

Why The Bull Market Could Last a Lot Longer (EP.238)

Why The Bull Market Could Last a Lot Longer (EP.238)

On today's show we discuss the year that was in the stock market for 2021, why people hate the Fed so much, Michael's predictions for the year, why the bull market could continue to run, stock market FUD, Disney's new movie formula and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations

Jan 5, 2022 • 50:14

Talk Your Book: Can Anything Slow Down the Housing Market?

Talk Your Book: Can Anything Slow Down the Housing Market?

On today's show we talk to Fundrise CEO Ben Miller about the state of the housing market, why build-to-rent is the next big thing, what could possibly slow down the housing market and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jan 3, 2022 • 28:00

Howard Lindzon Unplugged

Howard Lindzon Unplugged

On today's special episode we speak with Howard Lindzon about his career, the state of venture capital today and what it's like investing in start-ups. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone

Jan 1, 2022 • 48:16

When to Sell a Growth Stock (EP.237)

When to Sell a Growth Stock (EP.237)

On this week's show we discuss an amazing year in the U.S. stock market, why celebrity SPACs stink, the impact of mortgage rates on housing prices, Web3 communities and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your a

Dec 29, 2021 • 51:40

Listener Mailbag

Listener Mailbag

On today's show we go over questions from listeners on creating an income-based portfolio, when to sell a struggling position, how to judge your financial advisor, borrowing against your home to invest and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of con

Dec 27, 2021 • 36:09

An Extraordinary Decade (EP.236)

An Extraordinary Decade (EP.236)

On today's show we discuss Omicron, why the market is over the virus, Cathie Wood's bold return forecast, why everyone is lowering return expectations, why the middle class is unhappy, the future of movies and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of c

Dec 22, 2021 • 49:33

Talk Your Book: Massive ETF Inflows

Talk Your Book: Massive ETF Inflows

On today's show we spoke with Matt Bartolini from State Street Global Advisors about ETFs, inflation and their 2022 outlook. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 20, 2021 • 33:52

Person of the Year (EP.235)

Person of the Year (EP.235)

On today's show we discuss the NYC boom, the treasury bonds of the Nasdaq, return expectations over the next decade, why young people won't be scared off by a bear market, who is most impacted by inflation, why in-dining fast food may be a thing of the past and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questio

Dec 15, 2021 • 45:20

Talk Your Book: Investing in Carbon Allowances

Talk Your Book: Investing in Carbon Allowances

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Luke Oliver from Kraneshares about the huge potential in carbon allowances. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 13, 2021 • 29:37

The Most Crowded Stocks (EP.234)

The Most Crowded Stocks (EP.234)

On this week's show we discuss the growth stock crash, the third web, and wonder if Paul Thomas Anderson is overrated.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 8, 2021 • 43:11

Talk Your Book: Buying a Picasso

Talk Your Book: Buying a Picasso

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Masterworks founder and CEO Scott Lynn on what it's like to run a unicorn, and how they are changing the investment landscape in contemporary art. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Dec 6, 2021 • 31:56

Talk Your Book: Down with Title Insurance

Talk Your Book: Down with Title Insurance

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Doma founder and CEO Max Simkoff about title insurance, home appraisals and making the purchase and refinance of your house more efficient. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your

Dec 4, 2021 • 30:41

Housing Prices Are Still Too Low (EP.233)

Housing Prices Are Still Too Low (EP.233)

On this week's show we discuss why the markets care about the new variant, Twitter's crappy stock performance, inflation at the Dollar Store, profit margins are too high, buying real estate in the metaverse and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of

Dec 1, 2021 • 48:46

Talk Your Book: The DAO of DeFi Index Funds

Talk Your Book: The DAO of DeFi Index Funds

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Mike Taormina from Index Coop about investing DeFi index funds. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Nov 29, 2021 • 40:01

The High Beta Crash (EP.232)

The High Beta Crash (EP.232)

On today's show we discuss why the stock market doesn't care about inflation (yet), the growth stock massacre, how corporations are taking advantage of inflation, the new frontiers in crypto, some career advice for The Rock and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas

Nov 24, 2021 • 52:09

Talk Your Book: Where to Save For Your Down Payment

Talk Your Book: Where to Save For Your Down Payment

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Taylor and Brett Sohns from Lifegoal Investments about their Home Down Payment ETF. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 22, 2021 • 31:20

Everyone Hates Inflation (EP.231)

Everyone Hates Inflation (EP.231)

On this week's show we discuss the highest inflation rate in 30 years, why this is a good time to be a borrower, why no one is happy about the economy right now, Michael got rugged in crypto and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversatio

Nov 17, 2021 • 50:03

Talk Your Book: Crypto Goes Mainstream

Talk Your Book: Crypto Goes Mainstream

On today's Talk Your Book, we had BlockFi CEO Zac Prince back on the show to discuss all things crypto.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Nov 15, 2021 • 38:17

Great Quartr Guys (EP.230)

Great Quartr Guys (EP.230)

On this week's show we discuss Elon Musk selling 10% of his Tesla shares, the pandemic trade is over, Zillow's blunder, Peloton's downfall, interest rates remaining low and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about

Nov 10, 2021 • 46:51

Talk Your Book: Why Annuities Have Higher Yields Than Bonds

Talk Your Book: Why Annuities Have Higher Yields Than Bonds

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with David Lau from DPL Financial Partners about annuities and how financial advisors are dealing with low interest rates. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit me

Nov 8, 2021 • 31:55

There's No Crying in Crypto (EP.229)

There's No Crying in Crypto (EP.229)

On today's show we discuss the impact of rising rates on the stock market, Shibu Inu, the different levels of FOMO, parallels to the tech bubble, why everything we learned in business school is now worthless and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topi

Nov 3, 2021 • 44:50

Talk Your Book: Real World Betting Markets

Talk Your Book: Real World Betting Markets

We spoke with Kalshi founder Tarek Mansour about betting on the outcomes of real-world events. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 1, 2021 • 30:40

Hyperinflation, It's Happening (EP.228)

Hyperinflation, It's Happening (EP.228)

On today's Animal Spirits we discuss worrying too much about the markets, Tesla's impressive performance, inequality in the stock market, trying to explain crypto to civilians, Jack the macro tourist, Dune and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics

Oct 27, 2021 • 49:40

Talk Your Book: How to Use Thematic ETFs

Talk Your Book: How to Use Thematic ETFs

On this edition of Talk Your Book we spoke with Dave Mazza from Direxion about investing in WFH stocks, moonshots and the hydrogen economy. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoice

Oct 25, 2021 • 33:27

It Wasn't Transitory (EP.227)

It Wasn't Transitory (EP.227)

On this week's show we discuss the new bitcoin ETF, higher than expected inflation, a positive spin on the supply chain issues, a record number of people quitting their job, the boom in consumer spending and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of con

Oct 20, 2021 • 49:23

Talk Your Book: Finding Growth Stocks Around the Globe

Talk Your Book: Finding Growth Stocks Around the Globe

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Rob Forker of Polen Capital about investing in international small cap growth companies. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 18, 2021 • 25:28

The 24/7 Stock Market (EP.226)

The 24/7 Stock Market (EP.226)

On today's show we talk about supply chain issues, why millennials don't drive minivans, what constitutes being rich, net worth by age, my favorite Tom Hanks movie, the difference between housing affordability and the right time to buy a house and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, rec

Oct 13, 2021 • 46:22

Talk Your Book: Investing in Real Estate Alongside Harvard

Talk Your Book: Investing in Real Estate Alongside Harvard

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Cadre CEO Ryan Williams about investing in commercial real estate. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Oct 11, 2021 • 32:25

Unaffordable Housing (EP.225)

Unaffordable Housing (EP.225)

On this week's show we discuss supply chain problems, buying Christmas presents early, why progress requires inflation, investors have been spoiled, housing affordability in the United States, Zillow's problems buying houses, Squid Game and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendati

Oct 6, 2021 • 56:17

Listener Mailbag

Listener Mailbag

On today's show we answer listener questions about inflation, commodities, refinancing, investing in gold, how to network when finding a job and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit mega

Oct 4, 2021 • 39:55

Richer Than Ever (EP.224)

Richer Than Ever (EP.224)

On today's show we discuss Rich Dad Poor Dad, why bailouts are here to stay, Cathy Wood really likes treasuries, sports gambling hits the mainstream, options are enormous, how much it costs for a down payment and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future top

Sep 29, 2021 • 51:45

Talk Your Book: Accelerating Your Returns

Talk Your Book: Accelerating Your Returns

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke once again with Bruce Bond of Innovator ETFs about defined outcome investing. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 27, 2021 • 29:05

Probably Not The Next Lehman (EP.223)

Probably Not The Next Lehman (EP.223)

On this week's show we discuss the newest market crisis du jour, what's holding down bond yields, the crypto narrative that doesn't hold water, America's day care system is broken and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn mo

Sep 22, 2021 • 48:23

Talk Your Book: The Fabric of Risk

Talk Your Book: The Fabric of Risk

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Rick Bookstaber of Fabric Risk about how advisors and their clients should approach the concept of risk in their financial plans. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choice

Sep 20, 2021 • 33:49

The Crypto Gateway Drug (EP.222)

The Crypto Gateway Drug (EP.222)

On today's show we discuss the problem with historical analogs in finance, the biggest stocks in the stock market, why financial manias persist, why stablecoins earn such high rates of interest, the education gap between men and women, why U.S. home prices aren't as crazy as you think and much more.Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspirit

Sep 15, 2021 • 54:39

Talk Your Book: An Alternative to Low Bond Yields

Talk Your Book: An Alternative to Low Bond Yields

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with David Lau of DPL Financial Partners about all things annuities and how they can help advisors in a low interest rate world. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Vi

Sep 13, 2021 • 35:36

Interest Rates Are Never Going Up Again (EP.221)

Interest Rates Are Never Going Up Again (EP.221)

On today's show we discuss the early days of this podcast, Ray Dalio's performance issues, how wealth and demographics are impacting interest rates, why bitcoin matters, Ben's week with Covid and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. L

Sep 8, 2021 • 49:41

Talk Your Book: Insourced CIO

Talk Your Book: Insourced CIO

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Helios CEO Chris Shuba about estate planning and investment services for financial advisors. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 6, 2021 • 34:00

The Big Long (EP.220)

The Big Long (EP.220)

On today's show we discuss a Covid outbreak for Ben, the shifting risk appetite for young people, getting rich overnight has never been easier, why money supply is not inflation, the labor shortage hitting close to home and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for futu

Sep 1, 2021 • 44:54

Listener Mailbag

Listener Mailbag

On today's episode, the guys are back with another episode of listener questions. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 30, 2021 • 45:48

How to Crush a Job Interview (EP.219)

How to Crush a Job Interview (EP.219)

On today's show we discuss the pros and cons of the CFA, tales of Michael's old job interviews, seeing both sides of the NFT boom, why moving money in crypto is still so complex, people working two jobs remotely, why we're taking money out of our homes and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, r

Aug 25, 2021 • 45:04

Talk Your Book: Bring Your Own Deal

Talk Your Book: Bring Your Own Deal

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Rocket Dollar CEO Henry about self-directed IRAs.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 23, 2021 • 30:44

Ben Turns 40 (EP.218)

Ben Turns 40 (EP.218)

On this week's show we discuss direct-listed IPO performance, the scorching hot NFT market, Ben's milestone birthday, transitory inflation signals, shortages in the economy, the relativity of rich and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conve

Aug 18, 2021 • 49:51

Talk Your Book: Diamonds Hand with Zac Prince

Talk Your Book: Diamonds Hand with Zac Prince

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with BlockFi CEO Zac Prince about all things crypto. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Aug 16, 2021 • 41:03

Did Bitcoin Kill Gold? (EP.217)

Did Bitcoin Kill Gold? (EP.217)

On today's show we discuss investors behaving better, meme stock pushback, what is wrong with gold, why crypto isn't crashing despite more regulation, canceling student loan interest, Michael's trip to the casino and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topi

Aug 11, 2021 • 48:50

Talk Your Book: Investing in Dual Impact ETFs

Talk Your Book: Investing in Dual Impact ETFs

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Wendy Wong of New York Life Investments about investing to fight heart disease. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 9, 2021 • 24:14

Emergency Pod: We Were Both Wrong About Robinhood

Emergency Pod: We Were Both Wrong About Robinhood

On Wednesday, we held a Twitter Spaces to discuss the Robinhood IPO and the fact that Ben sold his shares last week.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 5, 2021 • 14:13

The Best Way to Get a Raise (EP.216)

The Best Way to Get a Raise (EP.216)

On today's show we discuss Ben's recent trip to NYC, how the psychology around money can shape your relationships, the 1987 of recessions, the Robinhood IPO, changing how we think about debt, how much money it takes to feel financially secure and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendat

Aug 4, 2021 • 50:25

Talk Your Book: Investing in Wine

Talk Your Book: Investing in Wine

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Vinovest CEO Anthony Zhang about investing in wine and whiskey. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Aug 2, 2021 • 31:00

We Love to Spend Money (EP.215)

We Love to Spend Money (EP.215)

On this week's show we discuss the insane run in stocks over the last 12 years, what's moving crypto prices lately, when to take profits from a big winner, the shortest recession ever, housing price appreciation slowing down, the Netflix of homebuilding, Robinhood vs. Coinbase and much more.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 28, 2021 • 42:33

Talk Your Book: The Netflix of Homebuilders

Talk Your Book: The Netflix of Homebuilders

On today's Talk Your Book we had Fundrise CEO Ben Miller back on to discuss the real estate market on everything from building vs. buying, commercial real estate, single-family rentals and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jul 26, 2021 • 29:42

Prices Only Go Up (EP.214)

Prices Only Go Up (EP.214)

On this week's show we discuss the difference between a trip and a vacation, what it means to be rich, the inflation conundrum, why it's easier to raise prices than lower them, why Roth IRAs won't get taxed again, the best show no one talks about and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, re

Jul 21, 2021 • 47:02

Talk Your Book: Invest by Avoiding the Losers

Talk Your Book: Invest by Avoiding the Losers

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Julian Koski of New Age Alpha about setting baselines and probabilities on current stock prices to help avoid the losers in the future.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your

Jul 19, 2021 • 32:49

High School Reunion (EP.213)

High School Reunion (EP.213)

On today's episode we discuss the Roaring 20s, why things are better than you think, the coming baby bust, the end of cash, who's driving up home prices, the end of the movie business, Ben's high school reunion and more. Today’s show is brought to you by Masterworks, allowing you to invest a portion of your portfolio in fine art. Learn more at masterworks.io. Promo Code: coupdegras Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Inv

Jul 14, 2021 • 51:57

Talk Your Book: Quality Growth

Talk Your Book: Quality Growth

On today's show the guys talk with Eric Schoenstein, CIO at Jensen Investment Management about how to find quality growth companies trading at a reasonable price. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choic

Jul 12, 2021 • 31:12

$35 Trillion Giveaway (EP.212)

$35 Trillion Giveaway (EP.212)

On today's show we discuss unplugging from social media for the weekend, the big move in stocks from the bottom of the bear market, why this time is different, the great migration from CA to Austin, Robinhood's S-1, the coming inheritance wave, some thoughts on The Tomorrow War and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com

Jul 7, 2021 • 50:32

Talk Your Book: High-Yield Real Estate

Talk Your Book: High-Yield Real Estate

On today's show, the guys talk with Brian Dally from Groundfloor about the opportunity to invest in high-yield real estate.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jul 5, 2021 • 33:28

The Wealthiest Generation (EP.211)

The Wealthiest Generation (EP.211)

On this week's show we discuss money piling into crypto, bubble experts, flows over pros, young people waiting to settle down, the housing market conundrum, households are richer than ever, FOMO lessons from The Great Outdoors and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas f

Jun 30, 2021 • 39:16

Talk Your Book: Anti-Carry

Talk Your Book: Anti-Carry

On today's show, the guys talk with Paul Kim of Simplify on how to sell vol and not get run over by the proverbial steamroller.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 25, 2021 • 31:29

Lifestyle Creep (EP.210)

Lifestyle Creep (EP.210)

On today's show we discuss inflation, why bond yields are falling, getting wrecked in DeFi, fintech's customer service problem, taking a family loan to buy a house, managing the economic boom and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conver

Jun 23, 2021 • 48:33

Talk Your Book: Investing in Volatility

Talk Your Book: Investing in Volatility

On today's show the guys speak with James McDonald, CEO of Hercules Investments about option trading strategies. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jun 18, 2021 • 34:59

Fed Apologists (EP.209)

Fed Apologists (EP.209)

On this week's show we discuss the most underrate innovation of all-time, why the economy is more interesting than the markets, the wild housing market, why more young people may prefer to rent going forward, where have all the movie stars gone and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommend

Jun 16, 2021 • 50:12

Talk Your Book: The State of the Housing Market

Talk Your Book: The State of the Housing Market

On today's show the guys talk with Logan Mohtashami, lead analyst at Housing Wire.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 11, 2021 • 37:36

Permanent Stimulus (EP.208)

Permanent Stimulus (EP.208)

On this week's show we discuss why crypto is sucking the air out of the room for investor attention, the future of bear markets, the insane cost of building a new home, meme stocks, the impact of stimulus checks, how to spend your money wisely and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommenda

Jun 9, 2021 • 50:43

Talk Your Book: The Commodity Supercycle

Talk Your Book: The Commodity Supercycle

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Direxion's Ed Egilinsky about the potential for a commodities supercycle and why it makes sense to be tactical when it comes to commodities exposure.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. L

Jun 4, 2021 • 32:45

And Then I Got Scammed (EP.207)

And Then I Got Scammed (EP.207)

Description: On this week's show we discuss the king of SPACs, how the internet broke people's brains, Guy Fieri, the promise of crypto, the history of money market funds, how the rent vs. buy dynamic has changed in a hot housing market, Mare of Easttown and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 2, 2021 • 50:41

Listener Mailbag (EP.206)

Listener Mailbag (EP.206)

On today's show we answer listener questions on real estate, asset allocation, where to save retirement money, dealing with big gains in individual stocks and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your

May 28, 2021 • 43:29

The Worst Time To Buy a Home (EP.205)

The Worst Time To Buy a Home (EP.205)

On today's show we discuss Tesla vs. Ford, the Robinhood effect, why 24/7 markets make volatility worse, trying to explain what DeFi is, the Frankenstein economy, why this is the worst time ever to be a home buyer, the greatest of Joe Pesci and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendatio

May 26, 2021 • 47:51

Talk Your Book: The Case for Investing in Farmland

Talk Your Book: The Case for Investing in Farmland

On today's show, the guys talk to Carter Malloy of Acre Trader about the investment opportunities in farmland.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

May 21, 2021 • 29:50

A Shortage of Everything (EP.204)

A Shortage of Everything (EP.204)

On today's show we discuss Elon Musk's crypto tweets, why bitcoin is falling, some context behind the inflation numbers, the weirdest economy ever, why used car prices spiked, what happened to comedies and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of

May 19, 2021 • 54:20

Growth at a Reasonable Price

Growth at a Reasonable Price

On today's show, the guys talk with Clay Gardner of Titan, an actively managed investment solution that is trying to disrupt mutual funds.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoic

May 14, 2021 • 43:10

Bubbles Are Forever (EP.203)

Bubbles Are Forever (EP.203)

On this week's show we discuss the huge miss in the job's report, why stock market valuations are so hard to use today, why we need to build more houses, the insane spike in lumber prices, the downfall of growth stocks, the most intimidating movie characters of all-time and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feed

May 12, 2021 • 48:39

Talk Your Book: Is Art Recession-Proof?

Talk Your Book: Is Art Recession-Proof?

On today's show, we talk with Scott Lynn about one of the best performing asset classes during the pandemic. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

May 7, 2021 • 31:19

We Should Be in a Bubble (EP.202)

We Should Be in a Bubble (EP.202)

On this week's show we discuss the roommate theory, Bill Murray, the massive scale of the 5 big tech stocks, rational vs. irrational bubbles, pros and cons of Robinhood, crypto going off and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. L

May 5, 2021 • 47:22

Talk Your Book: The Sports Memorabilia Boom

Talk Your Book: The Sports Memorabilia Boom

On today's show Michael and Ben speak with Ezra Levine of Collectable to discuss what's driving the red hot sports memorabilia market.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Apr 30, 2021 • 38:58

The YOLO Economy (EP.201)

The YOLO Economy (EP.201)

On this week's show we discuss the crypto crash, setting return expectations, make life changes because of the pandemic, cynical thinking because of the internet, taxes vs. the stock market and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Lea

Apr 28, 2021 • 43:54

Talk Your Book: Why the Real Estate Bull is Just Getting Started

Talk Your Book: Why the Real Estate Bull is Just Getting Started

On today's show we speak with Ben Miller of Fundrise about why the future of single family housing is about to change in a big way.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Apr 23, 2021 • 30:37

The Dumbest Week Ever (EP.200)

The Dumbest Week Ever (EP.200)

On this week's show we talk about dogecoin, the crypto crash, money-losing companies, buyers of second homes, why 2008 broke so many brains, a shortage of homeowners, a new idea for Airbnb and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Lear

Apr 21, 2021 • 44:15

Talk Your Book: Crypto Update with Zac Prince

Talk Your Book: Crypto Update with Zac Prince

On today's Talk Your book we catch up with BlockFi's Zac Prince on the Coinbase IPO, running a growth company, a downside to Ethereum, institutional adoption to crypto and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Apr 16, 2021 • 49:48

A Shortage of Workers (EP.199)

A Shortage of Workers (EP.199)

On today's show we discuss housing bubble talk, huge fund inflows into stocks, gains for the bottom 50%, shortages, inflation and investing in collectibles. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaph

Apr 14, 2021 • 43:40

Listener Mailbag

Listener Mailbag

On today's Animal Spirits, Michael and Ben answer listener questions. Everything from personal finance to real estate to investments, and everything in-between. Keep the emails coming! Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about

Apr 9, 2021 • 43:25

Housing Bubble 2.0?

Housing Bubble 2.0?

On today's show we discuss the rise in Gen Z traders, how retail investors are impacting the market, the 4 types of Robinhood traders, the dependability of market cycles, going from being a saver to being a spender and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future to

Apr 7, 2021 • 51:15

Talk Your Book: The Psychology of Investing in Bitcoin

Talk Your Book: The Psychology of Investing in Bitcoin

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Phil Pearlman of Osprey Funds about cryptocurrencies.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Apr 2, 2021 • 34:59

The Active Management Resurgence (EP.197)

The Active Management Resurgence (EP.197)

On today's show we discuss the most bullish thing about the stock market right now, the catalyst for value beating growth, when the smart money is really dumb, the relationship between inflation and wealth inequality, the best time ever to found a start-up and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, question

Mar 31, 2021 • 52:01

Talk Your Book: Investing in the Gig Economy

Talk Your Book: Investing in the Gig Economy

On today's Talk Your Book we speak with David Dziekanski, portfolio manager for the SoFi Gig Economy ETF. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 26, 2021 • 30:39

An Affordability Crisis (EP.196)

An Affordability Crisis (EP.196)

On today's show we discuss rising real estate prices, how the work from home trend could impact housing, working at Goldman Sachs, the income required to be considered rich, benchmarking your retirement savings to your peers and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or

Mar 24, 2021 • 55:04

Talk Your Book: The Case for Emerging Markets

Talk Your Book: The Case for Emerging Markets

On today's Talk Your Book we spoke with Nick Niziolek from Calamos Investments about the potential for emerging markets in the coming years.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoi

Mar 19, 2021 • 37:37

Super Bullish (EP.195)

Super Bullish (EP.195)

On this week's show we talk about taking cash out of your house, the coming economic boom, why the Fed isn't printing as much money as you think, Beeple's $69 million NFT, why commodities aren't setting up for a supercycle, and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas f

Mar 17, 2021 • 48:46

Talk Your Book: Investing in Freedom

Talk Your Book: Investing in Freedom

On today's show we speak with Perth Tolle of Life + Liberty Indexes about freedom as an investment factor.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 12, 2021 • 25:29

The Recession is Over (EP.194)

The Recession is Over (EP.194)

On this week's show we discuss the wreckage in growth stocks, the outperformance of value, what the massive fiscal stimulus plan means for the economy, the inflation worry, the enemy of ARK, comedy sequels and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics o

Mar 10, 2021 • 47:46

Talk Your Book: The Most Ambitious ETFs

Talk Your Book: The Most Ambitious ETFs

On today's Talk Your Book we chat with Simplify Asset Management CEO Paul Kim about creating ETFs that are concentrated, enhance the upside and protect the downside.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices.

Mar 5, 2021 • 32:48

Never Bet Against America (EP.193)

Never Bet Against America (EP.193)

On this week's show we discuss the recent rise in interest rates, how much rates really matter to the markets, the latest Buffett shareholder letter, when value stocks turn into momentum stocks, bubble debates and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topi

Mar 3, 2021 • 48:11

Talk Your Book: Investing in Moonshots

Talk Your Book: Investing in Moonshots

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Direxion's Dave Mazza about the Direxion Moonshot ETF and how to invest in the most innovative companies.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/

Feb 26, 2021 • 28:22

The Beanie Baby Bubble (EP.192)

The Beanie Baby Bubble (EP.192)

On today's show we discuss the collectibles boom, similarities and differences to the Beanie Baby boom of the late-1990s, NBA Top Shot, ISAs for pro athletes and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices.

Feb 24, 2021 • 47:47

Listener Mailbag

Listener Mailbag

On this episode, we cleaned out our inbox to answer questions from listeners about retirement, personal finance, investing, markets, careers, and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphon

Feb 19, 2021 • 40:33

Bidding Wars (EP.191)

Bidding Wars (EP.191)

On today's show, we discuss food delivery as a viable business, SPACs vs IPOs, the new benchmark for tech companies, the red hot real estate market, Bryan Cranston vs Tom Hanks, and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more a

Feb 17, 2021 • 40:39

Talk Your Book: The Madness of crowds

Talk Your Book: The Madness of crowds

On today's show, the guys talk to Daniel Crosby, PhD, the Chief Behavioral Officer of Orion Advisor Solutions about some of the craziest few weeks in stock market history.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad ch

Feb 12, 2021 • 30:16

Money Tree (EP.190)

Money Tree (EP.190)

On this week's episode we discuss Elon Musk becoming the new Warren Buffett, companies putting bitcoin on their balance sheet, the Mount Rushmore of CEOs, NFTs and trading cards, tapping your home equity and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of

Feb 10, 2021 • 51:25

Talk Your Book: Commission-Free Insurance

Talk Your Book: Commission-Free Insurance

On today's show, the guys talk with David Lau from DPL Financial Partners about how they're improving the insurance sales for advisors and their clients.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megap

Feb 5, 2021 • 36:15

The Big Squeeze (EP.189)

The Big Squeeze (EP.189)

On this week's show we talk about all things GameStop, Robinhood, short-sellers, when markets become a pop culture phenomenon, why people are so angry with Wall Street and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about

Feb 3, 2021 • 57:38

TYB: Crypto as an Emerging Store of Value

TYB: Crypto as an Emerging Store of Value

On today's show, the guys speak with Zac Prince of BlockFi about all the hottest topics in the world of Bitcoin.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jan 29, 2021 • 34:15

It's Very Different This Time (EP.188)

It's Very Different This Time (EP.188)

On today's show we talk about the wild moves in Gamestop, why this is now a young person's market, why the SEC is probably going to come calling for some YOLO investors, why this is and is not like 1999, how hedge funds got beat by retail traders and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions,

Jan 27, 2021 • 50:43

Talk Your Book: Investing in Fixed Income

Talk Your Book: Investing in Fixed Income

On today's show, Michael and Ben talk with Gibson Smith of Smith Capital Investors about how the structure of the fixed income market has evolved over time, what happened to bond funds and ETFs in March? The potential problems with plain-vanilla bond indexes, and much more   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback

Jan 22, 2021 • 40:49

Micro Bubbles (EP.187)

Micro Bubbles (EP.187)

On today's show we discuss why index funds will never cause a bubble, how day traders are evolving, the best-performing stocks of 2020, penny stock madness and why 2021 could see the economy shoot the lights out.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of c

Jan 20, 2021 • 46:48

Talk Your Book: Investing in Real Estate With Fundrise

Talk Your Book: Investing in Real Estate With Fundrise

On today's Talk Your Book, we spoke with Ben Miller, co-founder and CEO of Fundrise about investing in direct real estate.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jan 15, 2021 • 26:24

Tesla is the Next Tesla (EP.186)

Tesla is the Next Tesla (EP.186)

On this week's show we discuss the outsized role tech companies play in our democracy, why aggression is highly contagious, why the stock market is creating bubbles, the battle between fiscal and monetary policy, bitcoin whales and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, o

Jan 13, 2021 • 45:04

Should I Use a Roth or a Traditional IRA?

Should I Use a Roth or a Traditional IRA?

On today's show, we talk with Bill Sweet about the different options investors should consider when thinking about what type of vehicle they should use for their retirement money.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about yo

Jan 11, 2021 • 17:05

Talk Your Book: 2021 Outlook

Talk Your Book: 2021 Outlook

On today's Talk Your Book, we speak with Matthew Bartolini about options for diversified investors going forward, how to think about volatility in fixed income investments, cyclical stocks in 2021, the different types of income investments and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendat

Jan 8, 2021 • 30:17

Inflation Truthers (EP.185)

Inflation Truthers (EP.185)

On this week's show we discuss why inflation isn't being understated, why the economy is so difficult to understand, why growth is outperforming value, the case for higher returns even with valuations so high, why Bitcoin is a religion, how incomes rose during the pandemic and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com wi

Jan 6, 2021 • 40:45

The Best of 2020

The Best of 2020

On today's last show of the year, we look back at the biggest stories from 2020 as well as our favorite books, movies and TV shows.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 1, 2021 • 34:13

Everyone Knows Everything (EP.184)

Everyone Knows Everything (EP.184)

On this week's show we discuss the luck of the draw in the economy this year, our new fantasy trading game, pockets of froth in the markets, Tesla speculators, ARK inflows, why Roths are overrated and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of co

Dec 30, 2020 • 38:37

Talk Your Book: Momentum Investing With Joe Terranova

Talk Your Book: Momentum Investing With Joe Terranova

On today's show, Michael and Ben talk with Joe Terranova of Investment Partners about the lessons from 2020, and the launch of his new investment ETF.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphon

Dec 25, 2020 • 33:15

Never Stop Buying Lottery Tickets (EP.183)

Never Stop Buying Lottery Tickets (EP.183)

On this week's show we discuss the new stimulus bill, why the stock market isn't always this easy, Tesla investors who made a boatload of money, Robinhood lawsuits, the potential for a Roaring 2020s and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conve

Dec 23, 2020 • 43:15

How to Start Your Financial Life (EP.182)

How to Start Your Financial Life (EP.182)

On today's show we discuss financial topics for young people including how much you should spend on an engagement ring, how to talk about money with your significant other, how much a wedding costs, managing money when you're married, starting to save for retirement, buying your first house and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod

Dec 18, 2020 • 35:07

IPO Mania (EP.181)

IPO Mania (EP.181)

On this week's show we discuss the Airbnb and DoorDash IPOs, similarities and differences between now and the 1990s dot-com boom, why IPOs rise so much on the first day of trading, YOLO structured notes, why the vaccine is our moon landing and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendati

Dec 16, 2020 • 42:55

Talk Your Book: ESG Investing

Talk Your Book: ESG Investing

On today's show, Michael and Ben talk with Brie Williams of State Street Global Advisors about the momentum behind ESG investing.    Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoic

Dec 11, 2020 • 28:43

How America Invests (EP.180)

How America Invests (EP.180)

On today's show we discuss AT&T vs. Verizon, why we could see the highest CAPE ratio ever, the end of movie theaters, why selling is the hardest part of investing, when we'll get the vaccine, the best movies you haven't seen and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or id

Dec 9, 2020 • 51:41

Blog Post: How Ben Invests His Money

Blog Post: How Ben Invests His Money

Inspired by the new book, How I Invest My Money, Ben shares how he manages his own money. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 7, 2020 • 7:25

Book Excerpt: The 20 Rules of Personal Finance

Book Excerpt: The 20 Rules of Personal Finance

Ben reads a chapter from his new book, Everything You Need to Know About Saving For Retirement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 5, 2020 • 8:24

Talk Your Book: The Structured Marketplace

Talk Your Book: The Structured Marketplace

On today's show we talked with Jason Barsema, co-founder and CEO of Halo Investing, an online marketplace for structured products, annuities, and buffered ETFs. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices

Dec 4, 2020 • 37:04

Raising the Minimum Wage (EP.179)

Raising the Minimum Wage (EP.179)

On this wee's show we discuss bitcoin vs. gold, billionaires and the minimum wage, there is no perfect number for your savings goals, the downside of FIRE, why credit card debt it falling, the pros and cons of Robinhood on investor habits, Ben's new book about saving for retirement and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com

Dec 2, 2020 • 43:05

Blog Post: Is Robinhood Good For Investors?

Blog Post: Is Robinhood Good For Investors?

A few weeks ago on a Zoom conference call, Michael was asked "Is Robinhood good for investors?" In this episode, Michael shares how this question caused him to think more deeply about his answer.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 30, 2020 • 4:35

Talk Your Book: Investing in Bitcoin

Talk Your Book: Investing in Bitcoin

On today's Talk Your Book we chat with BlockFi CEO Zac Prince about all things Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Nov 27, 2020 • 48:43

Is Bitcoin the New Gold (EP.178)

Is Bitcoin the New Gold (EP.178)

On this week's show we talk about the bitcoin bull market, the generational wealth gap, who owes all the student loan debt, why poor people still buy luxury goods, investing in TikTok mansions, young people entering the housing market and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or

Nov 25, 2020 • 47:11

Talk Your Book: Direct Indexing

Talk Your Book: Direct Indexing

On today's show, Michael and Ben talk with Rusty Vanneman, Chief Investment Officer at Orion Advisor Solutions about all things related to direct indexing. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaph

Nov 20, 2020 • 27:02

Cancel All the Debt (EP.177)

Cancel All the Debt (EP.177)

On this week's show we discuss vaccine Mondays, why the market doesn't care about increasing cases, what's the best age to die, making emergency funds obsolete, too much cash on the sidelines and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Nov 18, 2020 • 45:23

Blog Post: How Much is $20 a Month Worth?

Blog Post: How Much is $20 a Month Worth?

Ben looks at one of the hardest problems for most people when it comes to building wealth -- regularly saving money and shows why $20/month could be worth more than you think. And he has an announcement for his all new book about saving for retirement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 16, 2020 • 3:36

BLOG POST: How I Invest My Money

BLOG POST: How I Invest My Money

Ben and I are trying something new. Once or twice a week we're going to read a blog post and drop it in Animal Spirits. If you like it, we'll keep going, if not, we'll stop. The first post from Michael was inspired by Josh Brown and Brian Portnoy's new book "How I Invest My Money" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 14, 2020 • 6:07

Talk Your Book: But What Happens Tomorrow?

Talk Your Book: But What Happens Tomorrow?

On today's show we talk with Michael Arone, Chief Investment Strategist at State Street Global advisors about how elections impact the market, and why we might be on an unsustainable path going forward. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation

Nov 13, 2020 • 28:45

The Vaccine (EP.176)

The Vaccine (EP.176)

On this week's show we discuss what a vaccine would mean for the markets and economy, why a post-pandemic market will be so difficult to handicap, the potential for a massive boom post-vaccine, market moves after the election, corporate America as our strongest institution, why this year has been so challenging for investors and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel fre

Nov 11, 2020 • 36:42

Talk Your Book: Farmland for the Modern Investor

Talk Your Book: Farmland for the Modern Investor

On today's Talk Your Book we speak with Artem Milinchuk, CEO & Founder of FarmTogether about how he brought investing in farmland to the 21st century investor. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Nov 6, 2020 • 29:52

Trading the Election (EP.175)

Trading the Election (EP.175)

On this week's show we discuss how to think about your portfolio in relation to the presidential election, how markets tend to react during the post-election period, is it finally time for value to outperform growth, the resistance of the U.S. economy, the best new show of 2020 and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.co

Nov 4, 2020 • 49:44

Talk Your Book: Stacker ETFs

Talk Your Book: Stacker ETFs

On today's Talk Your Book we welcomed back Bruce Bond from Innovator Capital Management to talk about the new Stacker ETFs. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 30, 2020 • 32:04

The Worst Chart in Finance (EP.174)

The Worst Chart in Finance (EP.174)

On this week's show we discuss why the price of oil is losing its luster as a macro indicator, who owns the stock market, the rise of new investment classes, Robinhood as the financial hub for millennials, why people aren't happier and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or

Oct 28, 2020 • 45:44

Talk Your Book: Is the Fed too entrenched?

Talk Your Book: Is the Fed too entrenched?

On today's Talk Your Book, Michael and Ben speak with Marvin Loh of State Street Global Markets about all things related to interest rates, the federal reserve, and inflation. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad

Oct 23, 2020 • 26:41

Bad Ideas (EP.173)

Bad Ideas (EP.173)

On this week's show we discuss why baby boomers are selling out of stocks, the 4% rule, the newest star fund manager, why FICO scores are rising this year, companies piling on debt, how social media is making people miserable, some optimism on the pandemic front and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedb

Oct 21, 2020 • 48:45

Talk Your Book: What's In an Index?

Talk Your Book: What's In an Index?

On this edition of Talk Your Book we spoke with Laurence Black, founder of The Index Standard about how to pick the right products, ETFs and indices for your portfolio.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choice

Oct 16, 2020 • 28:28

Bearish the Whole Way Up (EP.172)

Bearish the Whole Way Up (EP.172)

On this week's show we discuss why it's impossible to invest based on the outcome of the election, how the market's reaction evolves over time, the coming travel spending boom, how healthcare costs have hurt incomes, baby bonds and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or idea

Oct 14, 2020 • 43:25

Talk Your Book: Protecting the Tails

Talk Your Book: Protecting the Tails

On this edition of Talk Your Book we sat down with Simplify Asset Management's Paul Kim to discuss how investors can protect their portfolios from both upside and downside volatility in the stock market.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversati

Oct 9, 2020 • 28:35

Living Through History (EP.171)

Living Through History (EP.171)

On this week's show we discuss how crazy it is to live through a period of time that will go down in the history books, why this recession has been devastating to working women, the next Robinhood, the IPO boom, dividend stocks as a bond substitute and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, rec

Oct 7, 2020 • 43:18

A Random Talk with Burton Malkiel

A Random Talk with Burton Malkiel

On today's show we sat down with Burton Malkiel, author of the classic book A Random Walk Down Wall Street.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 2, 2020 • 32:31

Worst Recession Ever (EP.170)

Worst Recession Ever (EP.170)

On this week's show we discuss some bright spots from the pandemic, the massive real estate boom, the housing shortage, more diversity in the stock market, when asset allocation doesn't matter, the SPAC boom and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics

Sep 30, 2020 • 42:21

Talk Your Book: Investing in Gold

Talk Your Book: Investing in Gold

On today's show we spoke with George Milling-Stanley, Chief Gold Strategist at SSGA about all things related to investing in Gold. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 25, 2020 • 36:29

It's Hard Being Rich (EP.169)

It's Hard Being Rich (EP.169)

On this week's show we discuss a minor correction in the stock market, why the upper middle class has so much debt, why fame and wealth don't always lead to more happiness, how baby boomers are messing up fund flow data, keeping politics out of your portfolio, the next big bull markets and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail

Sep 23, 2020 • 47:37

Everything You Need to Know About Retirement (EP.168)

Everything You Need to Know About Retirement (EP.168)

On this show we do a deep dive on everything retirement-related including how much you need to save, how much is enough, what happens when you get a late jump on retirement planning and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Lear

Sep 18, 2020 • 33:41

Upside Down Markets (EP.167)

Upside Down Markets (EP.167)

On this week's show we discuss some work from home backlash, parents vs. single people in the office, where inflation comes from, the new fiscal policy regime, why markets are so hard, experts on an earlier version of the world, the two beers and a puppy rule, the growth in sports gambling and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@g

Sep 16, 2020 • 43:58

Democracy Has Failed (EP.166)

Democracy Has Failed (EP.166)

On this week's show we discuss why tech stocks are finally selling off, why the best companies have to crash, stopping a depression in its tracks, the TINA market in bonds, benchmarking endowment funds, investing in timeshares, Airbnb and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations,

Sep 9, 2020 • 41:45

The Economics of Parenting (EP.165)

The Economics of Parenting (EP.165)

On this episode we discuss the finances of parenting from what you need to buy, how to prepare yourself financially and emotionally, the cost of daycare, saving for college, teaching your kids about money and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of

Sep 4, 2020 • 37:29

Asset Price Hyperinflation (EP.164)

Asset Price Hyperinflation (EP.164)

On this week's show we discuss modern market cap theory, the continued move higher in Tesla shares, the Fed's new inflation mandate, millennials are finally buying houses, Michael is never going into a car dealership again and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for

Sep 2, 2020 • 44:04

Talk Your Book: Sectors & The Business Cycle

Talk Your Book: Sectors & The Business Cycle

On today's Talk Your Book we sat down with State Street's Matt Bartolini to discuss investing in different sectors of the stock market and what these sectors can tell us about where we are in the business cycle.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of c

Aug 28, 2020 • 32:04

Trickle Up Economics (EP.163)

Trickle Up Economics (EP.163)

On this week's show we discuss the potential for a spending boom when the pandemic is over, what happens to all of the government debt we're racking up, what happened to the middle class in America, the red hot housing market, a tough fall ahead for students and parents and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with a

Aug 26, 2020 • 48:37

How to Spend Your Money (EP.162)

How to Spend Your Money (EP.162)

On this episode, we do a deep dive on budgeting, conscious spending, classflation, the two types of budgets, how to plan for infrequent expenses, how to make your budget obsolete and much more as it pertains to one of the most important topics in all of personal finance. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any fee

Aug 21, 2020 • 34:50

The Four Most Dangerous Words (EP.161)

The Four Most Dangerous Words (EP.161)

On this week's show we discuss the speed of bear market recoveries, signs of inflation, the hardest problem in finance right now, which stocks day traders favor, what makes investing so difficult, being right for the wrong reasons, how the real estate market is changing on the fly and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com

Aug 19, 2020 • 51:25

Talk Your Book: Understanding Opportunity Zones

Talk Your Book: Understanding Opportunity Zones

On this edition of Talk Your Book, we discuss investing in opportunity zones with Edmon Rakipi from Opp Zone Capital.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Aug 14, 2020 • 28:41

The Smart Money (EP.160)

The Smart Money (EP.160)

On this week's show we discuss what low bond yields may be telling us, why the stock market is smarter than people give it credit for, the rise of investment newsletters, the bull market in gold, when the world will go back to normal, TikTok and Twitter, annuities vs. bonds and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com w

Aug 12, 2020 • 46:01

The Economics of Homeownership (EP.159)

The Economics of Homeownership (EP.159)

On today's show we talk about one of the most important topics in personal finance, home ownership. Michael and Ben discuss renting versus buying, how to think about starter homes, where your house fits into your retirement plan, and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations,

Aug 7, 2020 • 38:26

S&P 5 (EP.158)

S&P 5 (EP.158)

On this week's show we discuss tech stock monopolies, Microsoft potentially buying TikTok, why more people are buying houses, what to do if your friends are speculating in stocks, Vanguard vs. Robinhood, the counterintuitive nature of this recession and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, re

Aug 5, 2020 • 52:34

Fixed Income Investing in a Low Rate World

Fixed Income Investing in a Low Rate World

On this edition of Talk Your Book we discuss the challenges of investing in a bond market will generationally low interest rates with Marvin Loh from State Street.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Vi

Jul 31, 2020 • 23:03

The Golden Age of Fraud (EP.157)

The Golden Age of Fraud (EP.157)

On this week's show we discuss why market cycles are happening in record time, parallels to the 1990s, speculative frenzy, anecdotal stock market signals, the red hot real estate market, commercial real estate, how work from home will change in the future, gold going crazy, how much to pay for an engagement ring, and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us a

Jul 29, 2020 • 47:50

Talk Your Book: Edly ISA's - Invest in Student Achievement

Talk Your Book: Edly ISA's - Invest in Student Achievement

On this edition of Talk Your Book, we spoke with Edly co-founders Chris Ricciardi and Chuck Trafton about income service agreements, the student loan crisis and how to invest in the wages of college graduates.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conv

Jul 24, 2020 • 32:27

10,000 Day Traders (EP.156)

10,000 Day Traders (EP.156)

On this week's show we discuss new all-time lows in mortgage rates, why this is no normal recession, hopes and questions for a vaccine, Betterment vs. Robinhood, saving money when you earn a bonus and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of convers

Jul 22, 2020 • 43:10

This is a Bubble (EP.155)

This is a Bubble (EP.155)

On this week's show we discuss the bubble behavior in Tesla, Elon Musk becoming richer than Warren Buffett, Robert De Niro is going broke, simple > complex, the home renovation boom, wealth inequality's impact on gambling, Hulu is better than Amazon Prime and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questio

Jul 15, 2020 • 45:38

The Future of Education (EP.154)

The Future of Education (EP.154)

On this weeks show we discuss the two types of investing mistakes, hangovers and sunburns, when markets actually make sense, migration out of big cities, Tesla's unbelievable run, a world with no yield, the joys of indexing, options for college kids in the fall and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedba

Jul 8, 2020 • 49:36

Existential Hurricane (EP.153)

Existential Hurricane (EP.153)

On this week's show we discuss growing worries about the economy, a double-dip depression, why the Fed may have to backstop the banks, shorting commercial real estate, the dominance of the biggest tech stocks, lower interest rates for a long time, what about Japan, inflationary scars and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gm

Jul 1, 2020 • 48:39

Inflation Ahead (EP.152)

Inflation Ahead (EP.152)

On this week's show we discuss Jeremy Siegel's inflationary scenario for the market, why it's time to stop complaining about the Fed, why poverty in the US actually improved during this crisis, is this another bubble, the garbage portfolio, why this is such a difficult time to invest as a retiree and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email a

Jun 24, 2020 • 42:45

Talk Your Book: Advisor Solutions with Helios

Talk Your Book: Advisor Solutions with Helios

On today's show we talk with Chris Shuba, founder and CEO of Helios Quantitative Research. Helios partners with financial advisors to create a unique and compelling asset management experience for their clients. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topic

Jun 19, 2020 • 24:39

The Opposite of a Falling Knife (EP.151)

The Opposite of a Falling Knife (EP.151)

On this week's show we discuss who is driving market prices right now, Robinhood's PR dream, the Hertz bankruptcy story, Dave Portnoy's day-trading escapades, why active managers should be salivating right now, how private equity could turn out like index funds, why bad news resonates more than good news, is the banking industry heading for a collapse and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Fac

Jun 17, 2020 • 40:35

Talk Your Book: Invest in Private Real Estate With FundRise.

Talk Your Book: Invest in Private Real Estate With FundRise.

On today's show we talk with Ben Miller, co-founder and CEO of FundRise, about how individuals can access the private real estate market. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jun 12, 2020 • 31:44

Stock Market Euphoria (EP.150)

Stock Market Euphoria (EP.150)

On this week's show we discuss the insane move in the stock market from the lows, the surprising unemployment numbers, underestimating the Fed, going from the Great Depression to euphoria in a matter of months, why international stocks are finally joining the fun, private equity in 401k plans, racial wealth inequality, Airbnb's comeback and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel

Jun 10, 2020 • 43:21

Talk Your Book: How to Make Better Financial Decisions with Daniel Crosby

Talk Your Book: How to Make Better Financial Decisions with Daniel Crosby

On this Talk Your Book we chat with Daniel Crosby about behavioral psychology, why we're not wired to manage money, how to improve your financial decisions and how systems and automation can help. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Lear

Jun 5, 2020 • 28:25

The Unluckiest Generation (EP.149)

The Unluckiest Generation (EP.149)

On this week's show we discuss the saddest week in a long time, post-traumatic growth, 2020 vs. 1968, why working from home is a privilege, inequality in America, the explosion in the airline ETF, Carl Icahn's big losses in Hertz, teaching your children about investing and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with an

Jun 3, 2020 • 41:50

Valuations Don't Matter (EP.148)

Valuations Don't Matter (EP.148)

We discuss why Zoom is worth more than the 5 biggest U.S. airlines, how many of the pandemic stocks are here for good, Spotify taking over the podcast game, Amazon possibly buying JC Penney, winners and losers from the WFH trend, the summer bull case for Airbnb, why alternative ETFs haven't worked, what happens to the conference industry and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook An

May 27, 2020 • 51:31

Talk Your Book: Investing in Corporate Real Estate

Talk Your Book: Investing in Corporate Real Estate

On today's show we talk about all things related to corporate real estate in the United States. How has it been affected by COVID-19, what does the future look like, and what does it all mean for investors.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics o

May 22, 2020 • 29:53

Is the Stock Market Wrong? (EP.147)

Is the Stock Market Wrong? (EP.147)

We discuss what a potential vaccine means for stock market, we could see a bubble after this, retail bankruptcies, the food delivery business, why the stock market is so confusing right now, inequality in this crisis, active fund performance during the bear market and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any fee

May 20, 2020 • 46:11

Too Young, Too Dumb and Too Inexperienced (EP.146)

Too Young, Too Dumb and Too Inexperienced (EP.146)

We discuss inequality among corporations, differences in the unemployed by education, the best new restaurant in the country just went out of business, why housing prices are rising during the crisis, millennials fleeing big cities, you are not Stanley Druckenmiller and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any f

May 15, 2020 • 42:13

Fallen Angels (EP.145)

Fallen Angels (EP.145)

We discuss why stocks aren't doing better in countries with a better virus response, why portfolio managers hate the Fed, how are the airlines going to survive, finding some gray area in the crisis data, food delivery price gouging, white-collar layoffs, working out from home, Peter Lynch crisis stocks, millennials receiving social security and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And

May 13, 2020 • 46:13

Whatever It Takes Squared (EP.144)

Whatever It Takes Squared (EP.144)

On this week's show we discuss Warren Buffett's annual meeting, why Berkshire didn't buy anything, crisis buzzwords, the death of commodities, retailers going out of business, the rise in credit card debt, comedy Oscars and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas f

May 6, 2020 • 48:25

A Noob Whale Picker's Market (EP.143)

A Noob Whale Picker's Market (EP.143)

We discuss how hard it is to outperform the market, why investors need to be more open-minded, how the crisis will impact millennial home-buying, how the Fed is redefining central banking, Occam's razor on interest rates, how inflation impacts growth and value stocks, noobwhales attracted to market turmoil and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email

May 1, 2020 • 45:57

Capitalism As We Know It (EP.142)

Capitalism As We Know It (EP.142)

We discuss why credit card payments will be the first thing to go for people with financial problems, why so many people prefer real estate as an investment, colleges, and gyms are in trouble, people who will leave big cities, how a crisis can change your investment thesis on the fly and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.c

Apr 29, 2020 • 46:16

Physical Delivery (EP.141)

Physical Delivery (EP.141)

We discuss why the stock market isn't falling more, craziness in the oil market, why "normal" portfolios may be performing better during the crisis, the death of department stores, banks, bailouts and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of con

Apr 24, 2020 • 44:23

Free Oil (EP.140)

Free Oil (EP.140)

We discuss fairness in the bailout process, why no one believes in this market, why it's been so difficult to outperform the market during this bear, Munger and Buffett's changing appetite for risk, why epidemiologists would make good investors and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, re

Apr 22, 2020 • 40:47

The Second Wave (EP.139)

The Second Wave (EP.139)

We discuss the path to normalcy, why the economy is going to be operating at partial capacity for some time, when people will begin flying again, why people are so angry with the bailouts, counterintuitive real estate trends, why colleges may be in trouble this fall and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any f

Apr 17, 2020 • 49:55

Mountains of Debt (EP.138)

Mountains of Debt (EP.138)

On this week's show we discuss the pandemic's impact on Disney, when people will be willing to go to large events in the future, private equity companies getting bailed out, anger coming from Main Street, counterintuitive markets, professional sports with no fans and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feed

Apr 15, 2020 • 36:51

Talk Your Book: Investing in Art With Masterworks

Talk Your Book: Investing in Art With Masterworks

On today’s show Michael and Ben sit down with Scott Lynn, founder of Masterworks, to talk about how technology has enabled investors to get access to the art market.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Apr 13, 2020 • 31:19

The Fed's Bazooka (EP.137)

The Fed's Bazooka (EP.137)

We discuss the latest unemployment numbers, the massive help coming from the Fed, why markets are so confusing at the moment, a new theory on forward stock market returns and why investing is so difficult in this environment. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future

Apr 10, 2020 • 45:50

Some Good News (EP.136)

Some Good News (EP.136)

On this week's show we discuss some good news out of NYC, can this ever be over until we have a vaccine, why this is more like a war than a financial crisis, who is getting hurt the worst from job losses, the 4 rules of pandemic economics, the massive response from the Fed, and some stuff to worry about when this is all over Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an e

Apr 8, 2020 • 40:26

The Great Unwind (EP.135)

The Great Unwind (EP.135)

We discuss the enormous effort from the science community to find a vaccine, using history as a guide even when every bear market is different, a wild month in the stock market, the coming small business apocalypse, how many people will have trouble with mortgage/rent payments, inequality in the downturn and much more.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email

Apr 3, 2020 • 43:23

The Dead Cat Bounce? (EP.134)

The Dead Cat Bounce? (EP.134)

On this week's show we discuss avoiding politics during a crisis, unintended consequences from the shutdown, the spike in national debt, why economics is so confusing, bottoms vs dead cat bounces, when to rebalance and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future

Apr 1, 2020 • 49:37

The Historic Surge in Unemployment (EP.133)

The Historic Surge in Unemployment (EP.133)

On this new episode we discuss the awful unemployment numbers, the new fiscal stimulus bill, restaurants in trouble, other businesses impacted, what happens if you buy too early, the best books on market panics, timing the bottom and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations,

Mar 27, 2020 • 41:28

The First Thing to Go During a Crisis (EP.132)

The First Thing to Go During a Crisis (EP.132)

On this week's show we discuss hindsight bias when the crisis is over, impressive measures by other countries, turmoil in the bond markets, will we get a new generation of Depression babies, the need for fiscal stimulus and more.' Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for f

Mar 25, 2020 • 46:42

Bailing Out Main Street (EP.131)

Bailing Out Main Street (EP.131)

On today's episode, we discuss the number of businesses impacted by the coronavirus shutdown, the potential fiscal stimulus plan, why interest rates are rising, how to think about rebalancing into the pain, Great Depression comparisons and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendat

Mar 20, 2020 • 36:37

Is this worse than 2008? (EP.130)

Is this worse than 2008? (EP.130)

On this week's show we discuss working from home, the enormous impact the coronavirus is having on the economy, how people's lives are changing in a hurry, turmoil in bond ETFs, the differences between now and 2008 and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for fu

Mar 18, 2020 • 47:45

Talk Your Book: Positive and Negative Compounding: Trading Direxion Leveraged ETFs

Talk Your Book: Positive and Negative Compounding: Trading Direxion Leveraged ETFs

On today's show we speak with Dave Mazza, head of product at Direxion about trading levered ETFs, and other products they're working on. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 16, 2020 • 29:33

Emergency Podcast: Preparing for a Recession

Emergency Podcast: Preparing for a Recession

On today's emergency edition of Animal Spirits, we discuss the severe disruption being caused by the coronavirus, why it's ok to overreact but not panic, how to prepare for a recession and why personal finances are more important than portfolio management at a time like this. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedba

Mar 12, 2020 • 24:43

Oil's 1987 Moment (EP.129)

Oil's 1987 Moment (EP.129)

On this week's episode we talk about the carnage in the stock market, the huge drop in oil prices, going from the fear of missing out to the fear of being in, why moves in the markets feel like they're happening faster than ever, some context around the plunge, are investors overreacting, the Fed's bazooka, why bonds are scarier than stocks right now and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on

Mar 11, 2020 • 41:34

A Random Watch Down Wall Street: The Founder

A Random Watch Down Wall Street: The Founder

On this week's business movie re-watch, we discuss The Founder, the Michael Keaton movie from 2016 about Ray Kroc and how he built McDonald's into an empire from humble beginnings. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about you

Mar 9, 2020 • 27:53

The Emergency Rate Cut (EP.128)

The Emergency Rate Cut (EP.128)

On this week's show we discuss the wild moves in the stock market, the emergency rate cut by the Fed, the chances the coronavirus leads to a recession, the crazy move lower in interest rates, Robinhood's issues, the industries most impacted by the pandemic and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, q

Mar 4, 2020 • 46:43

Talk Your Book: Investing in Commodities

Talk Your Book: Investing in Commodities

On this week's Talk Your Book Michael and Ben talk all things commodities with Yale's Geert Rouwenhorst and John Love from USCF Investments. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoic

Mar 2, 2020 • 43:44

Michael's Worst Investment Ever (EP.127)

Michael's Worst Investment Ever (EP.127)

On this week's episode, we discuss the impact of the coronavirus, ramifications of the asset management mergers because of commission-free trading, why the top 1% isn't static, why bond yields are so low, cashing out your 401k to pay for business school and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions

Feb 26, 2020 • 51:45

Talk Your Book: Small and Mid Cap Growth Investing

Talk Your Book: Small and Mid Cap Growth Investing

On this edition of Talk Your Book, Michael and Ben sat down with Bob Mitchell and Derek Johnston of Conestoga Capital Advisors to discuss investing in small and mid cap growth stocks and why this space is often overlooked by investors. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas f

Feb 24, 2020 • 0:40

What Makes People Happier Than Money (EP.126)

What Makes People Happier Than Money (EP.126)

On this week's show we discuss the wealth inequality problem, how to get more people invested in financial assets, who gets hit the hardest during the next market crash, overcrowding in the private markets, concentration in the U.S. stock market, intellectual index funds debates, the benefits of working out and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an e

Feb 19, 2020 • 44:56

A Random Watch Down Wall Street: Margin Call

A Random Watch Down Wall Street: Margin Call

On this edition of a Random Watch Down Wall Street we re-visited Margin Call, the 2011 fictional movie about the 2008 financial crisis from the perspective of the various employees at an investment bank that is potentially going under. We discuss where this one sits on the pantheon of business movies, the wonderful cast and how well this has aged over time. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Faceboo

Feb 17, 2020 • 23:53

Everybody's Trading (EP.125)

Everybody's Trading (EP.125)

On this week's show, we discuss the rise of TikTok Tesla traders, material signs of wealth, the generational wealth gap, why so much money is going into bond funds, why NYC is the enemy of personal finance, the Coronavirus and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or idea

Feb 12, 2020 • 46:17

Talk Your Book: How To Create Income in Your Portfolio

Talk Your Book: How To Create Income in Your Portfolio

On today's show, we talk with John Schonberg, portfolio manager of the Covered Bridge Fund. John explains how they derive income in this strategy by selling covered calls, and how this could fit into an overall portfolio. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future top

Feb 10, 2020 • 27:52

Do Economies Need to Go Bust? (EP.124)

Do Economies Need to Go Bust? (EP.124)

On today's show we discuss the amazing run by Tesla's stock, why markets aren't like casinos, Ray Dalio's beef with the WSJ, Zeri Hedge getting banned from Twitter, sports gambling as the next stock-picking, why more risk doesn't always equal higher returns and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback,

Feb 5, 2020 • 45:27

Apocalyptic Thinking (EP.123)

Apocalyptic Thinking (EP.123)

On this week's show, we discuss living for today, why millennials own such a small piece of the real estate pie, why investors trade more than they used to, why older people will be working longer, FIRE backlash, the Fed's role in stock valuations, the finances of ditching your car, why people are drawn to apocalyptic thinking and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free

Jan 29, 2020 • 45:10

The Short Squeeze (EP.122)

The Short Squeeze (EP.122)

On this week's show we discuss Tesla's wild ride, fixing the US retirement system, why financial literacy doesn't always work, why the Fed isn't to blame for everything in the markets, long-term market return expectations, where are all the start-ups and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questio

Jan 22, 2020 • 45:40

The 10 Best Jobs in America (EP.121)

The 10 Best Jobs in America (EP.121)

On this week's episode we discuss Vanguard vs Mark Zuckerberg, do people value work over family, chances of a recession in 2020, Apple AirPods as a business, why are there so many mattress stores, Sapphire Reserve is raising rates, the plant-based meat market and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any

Jan 15, 2020 • 48:53

Millennials on Communism (EP.120)

Millennials on Communism (EP.120)

On this week's episode, we discuss Ben's new book Don't Fall For It: A Short History of Financial Scams, the future of the publishing world, how markets respond to geopolitical uncertainty, why this bull market lacks euphoria, risks & opportunities from an aging population, how many people actually have a budget, 401k hacks and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free t

Jan 8, 2020 • 52:54

Everybody's Busy (EP.119)

Everybody's Busy (EP.119)

On this week's show we discuss working nights and weekends, why people are "busy" all the time, why we don't enjoy innovation as much as we should, tech bros vs finance bros, low stakes conspiracy theories, energy stocks and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas

Jan 1, 2020 • 30:54

The Best Decade in Human History (EP.118)

The Best Decade in Human History (EP.118)

On this week's show we talk about the one year anniversary of the bear market, the Christmas Eve miracle bottom, the new Peter Lynch interview, why it never pays to be a pessimist, the illiquidity premium, recessionary vs non-recessionary bear markets and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questi

Dec 25, 2019 • 41:55

A Random Watch Down Wall Street: Trading Places

A Random Watch Down Wall Street: Trading Places

We re-watched the 1980s finance classic Trading Places with Eddie Murphy, Dan Aykroyd and Jamie Lee Curtis to discuss how markets have changed since then, the most iconic scenes, and how well this movie aged. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conver

Dec 23, 2019 • 23:46

Shopping Under the Influence (EP.117)

Shopping Under the Influence (EP.117)

On this week's show we discuss some of the best charts of the decade from YCharts, the different types of Twitter accounts, when ETFs will surpass mutual funds, the new Bob Iger book, the best memes of 2019, how much does the Tooth Fairy get these days and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, quest

Dec 18, 2019 • 42:00

Talk Your Book: The Case for Tactical Equity

Talk Your Book: The Case for Tactical Equity

On today's show we talk with Corey Hoffstein of Newfound Research about all things tactical, including their new ETF, ROMO. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 16, 2019 • 27:55

Murder of the American Dream (EP.116)

Murder of the American Dream (EP.116)

On this week's show we discuss the economy Paul Volcker inherited at the Fed, a decade without a recession, how to raise kind children, the appeal of annuities, avoiding a mid-life crisis, banana art and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of

Dec 11, 2019 • 43:41

A Random Watch Down Wall Street: Boiler Room

A Random Watch Down Wall Street: Boiler Room

On this episode Michael and Ben rewatch the Wall Street classic, Boiler Room to discuss how things have changed in the industry since 2000, early Microsoft millionaires, cold-calling stock pitches and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of con

Dec 9, 2019 • 27:39

It's What It Is (EP.115)

It's What It Is (EP.115)

On this week's show we discuss the coming generational wealth transfer, some good economic news, The Irishman, too many contrarians, hedge fund money, investment banking as a career, 529 investing, one of the best things about parenting and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommenda

Dec 4, 2019 • 41:51

Talk Your Book: Elimination Alpha – How to XOUT Your Portfolio Losers

Talk Your Book: Elimination Alpha – How to XOUT Your Portfolio Losers

On this edition of Talk Your Book we chatted with Will Rhind and David Barse about the new GraniteShares XOUT U.S. Large Cap ETF and thinking about finding winners by avoiding losers in your portfolio. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Dec 2, 2019 • 27:05

The Nastiest, Hardest Problem in Finance (EP.114)

The Nastiest, Hardest Problem in Finance (EP.114)

On this week's show we discuss scale in the asset management business, Robloncho and Cybertruck reviews, the biggest worries in the real estate market, the student loan-like problem for young people and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of c

Nov 27, 2019 • 43:14

Talk Your Books: Value & Momentum with Jack & Wes

Talk Your Books: Value & Momentum with Jack & Wes

On this edition of Talk Your Book, we spoke with Alpha Architect's Wes Gray and Jack Vogel about value and momentum strategies and how they developed their investing process. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad c

Nov 25, 2019 • 40:55

Worst Call Ever? (EP.113)

Worst Call Ever? (EP.113)

On this week's show we discuss our initial thoughts on Disney+, staying bearish on Netflix since 2002, tech adoption, Google checking accounts, Armageddon calls, the social media era, influencer fraud, new customers from free trades, measurables in advertising, home prices vs. interest rates vs. William Shatner and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an

Nov 20, 2019 • 46:05

Talk Your Book: Defined Outcome Strategies with Jason Barsema of Halo Investing

Talk Your Book: Defined Outcome Strategies with Jason Barsema of Halo Investing

On this edition of Talk Your Book we had Jason Barsema from Halo Investing on to discuss the structured products market, how they're trying to make them more transparent, the pros and cons of structured products, best use cases for advisors and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recomm

Nov 18, 2019 • 37:28

I've Never Used an Emoji (EP.112)

I've Never Used an Emoji (EP.112)

On this week's show we discuss the growth in auto loans, denominator blindness in debt statistics, experts on an earlier version of the world, the one-percenters, timing value stocks, infinite leverage, more surveys and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for f

Nov 13, 2019 • 41:50

Talk Your Book: Coaching the Yankees

Talk Your Book: Coaching the Yankees

On this Talk Your Book we sat down with Dana Cavalea, former strength & conditioning coach for the New York Yankees to discuss his book Habits of Champion and how he got the job of a lifetime at age 23. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation

Nov 11, 2019 • 32:15

Talk Your Book: Greg Zuckerman on Jim Simons & Renaissance Technologies

Talk Your Book: Greg Zuckerman on Jim Simons & Renaissance Technologies

On today's Talk Your Book we talked with Greg Zuckerman about his new book The Man Who Solved the Market. We covered how Jim Simons built the greatest track record ever, lessons all investors can take away from Simons, how Ren Tech does it, the process of writing this book and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with

Nov 7, 2019 • 28:02

The World's Worst Investor (EP.111)

The World's Worst Investor (EP.111)

On this week's show we discuss the food delivery recession, demographic wars, why people are staying in their homes longer, why teens love TikTok, how Deadspin imploded, selling out at the top, Apple wearable growth, Ashton Kutcher's personal finance advice, The Irishman and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with

Nov 6, 2019 • 37:28

CEO Departures (EP.110)

CEO Departures (EP.110)

On this week's show we discuss company performance after a CEO leaves, never-ending finance arguments, what would happen if we banned buybacks, Elizabeth Warren's plans to break-up big corporations, Tesla as a sentiment barometer, why China matters more to Hollywood than the US, the glut of realtors and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at ani

Oct 30, 2019 • 39:25

Talk Your Book: Crossing Wall Street with Eddy Elfenbein

Talk Your Book: Crossing Wall Street with Eddy Elfenbein

On this edition of Talk Your Book we chatted with Eddy Elfenbein about his ETF, the buy list, passively investing in active stock picking, why it's so difficult to do nothing most of the time with your investments, fulcrum fees and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or

Oct 28, 2019 • 22:18

The Least Happy Age (EP.109)

The Least Happy Age (EP.109)

On this week's show we discuss the never-ending death of the 60/40 portfolio, why it feels logical and irrational to invest overseas right now, why rich people continue to work, how Blockbuster blew it with Netflix, the Influencer bubble may be popping, a recession may not be on the horizon, the age people are the most unhappy, Paul Rudd and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook An

Oct 23, 2019 • 47:44

The Undies Indicator (EP.108)

The Undies Indicator (EP.108)

On this week's episode we discuss the streaming wars, recession-proof businesses, the China-NBA clash, the power of Twitter, underwear economic indicators, credit vs. interest rates, the winner of the no-fee ETF war, Robinhood's foray into banking, finding a new role as a CFA, the greatest TV characters of all-time and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us

Oct 16, 2019 • 44:42

Re-Kindled: Malcolm Gladwell (EP.107)

Re-Kindled: Malcolm Gladwell (EP.107)

On this edition of Re-Kindled, Michael and Ben discuss Tipping Point, Blink, Talking to Strangers, pop psychology, and Malcolm Gladwell backlash. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/ad

Oct 14, 2019 • 36:35

Winners of the Financial Crisis (EP.106)

Winners of the Financial Crisis (EP.106)

On this week's show we discuss how private equity came out so well from the financial crisis, what's changed in the private tech markets, algos controlling trading, how allowance to give your kids, why anecdotes don't tell the story about the economy, why Fidelity is the Microsoft of the asset management industry and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot u

Oct 9, 2019 • 40:20

Free Trading (EP.105)

Free Trading (EP.105)

On this week's episode we discuss momentum crashes, free trading for all, public vs. private markets, IPO performance, Goldman's foray into banking for the masses, healthcare inflation, rich people giving money to Ivy League schools, Shawshank what-ifs and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, quest

Oct 2, 2019 • 44:00

Stockpiling Cash (EP.104)

Stockpiling Cash (EP.104)

On this week's show we discuss Airbnb's need to IPO, WeWork's latest PR nightmare, rich people raising cash, why now is one of the hardest investing environments ever, do interest rates impact private markets, Disney Plus, why no one will ever buy Twitter, YouTube influencers, Jim Grant and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod

Sep 25, 2019 • 44:35

Talk Your Book: Investing in Private Companies with EquityZen

Talk Your Book: Investing in Private Companies with EquityZen

On today's Talk Your Book we sat down with Phil Haslett from EquityZen to discuss investing in private growth companies. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Sep 23, 2019 • 34:42

Michael's Brain Fart (EP.103)

Michael's Brain Fart (EP.103)

On this week's show, we discuss how to pass the CFA exam, the range of performance in S&P 500 companies, factor crashes, why quants matter more than index funds, influencer ghostwriters, understanding IRRs, what Amazon could do next, the best movies ever and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, qu

Sep 18, 2019 • 43:58

Economically Unattractive (EP.102)

Economically Unattractive (EP.102)

On this week's show we discuss the passive bubble talk, private market bubble talk, credit cards, stocks vs the economy, people who own the market, Jeremy Renner's social media experiment, student loan forgiveness, and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for fu

Sep 11, 2019 • 37:07

Who Are the Losers? (EP.101)

Who Are the Losers? (EP.101)

On this week's show we discuss how flows affect the market, why there is no passive bubble, why small caps are always underfollowed, financial literacy differences between men and women, the Peloton IPO, why the Fed is not our savior, the Rock's singing voice, the new Chapelle, and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.co

Sep 4, 2019 • 48:06

Best Case Recession (EP.100)

Best Case Recession (EP.100)

On this week's show we discuss the finances of having kids, the best case scenario for the next recession, is anyone bullish right now, hedging out the end of the world, Michael's worst take ever, Ben's student loan story, Joe Rogan, trading options, the best book of the year so far and much more. On this week's show we discuss the finances of having kids, the best case scenario for the next recession, is anyone bullish right now, hedging out the end of the world, Michael's worst take ever, Ben

Aug 28, 2019 • 33:36

Re-Kindled: Amusing Ourselves to Death (EP.99)

Re-Kindled: Amusing Ourselves to Death (EP.99)

On this edition of Re-Kindled, Michael and Ben discuss Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 26, 2019 • 23:54

Paycheck to Paycheck (EP.98)

Paycheck to Paycheck (EP.98)

On this week's show we discuss yield curve inversions, why everyone is always predicting recessions, RV indicators, bonds are expensive, who buys negative rate bonds, our new noobwhale t-shirts, VC pump & dumps, how many people live paycheck-to-paycheck, fly swatters, social media cultures, money advice for people in their 20s and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free

Aug 21, 2019 • 44:18

Talk Your Book: Invest like a Hedge Fund with Titan

Talk Your Book: Invest like a Hedge Fund with Titan

On today’s animal Spirits Talk Your Book, Michael and Ben talk to Clay Gardner of titan invest. Titan is on a mission to democratize hedge fund investing. Go to titanvest.com for more information. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Lear

Aug 19, 2019 • 43:10

Business in a Box (EP.97)

Business in a Box (EP.97)

On this week's show we discuss what to make of negative interest rates, who is buying these bonds with negative rates, the new Apple credit card, the growth in takeout food, why fly swatters can't be disrupted, how Planet Fitness hacked human nature to build a giant gym business, why fewer people are going to the movies every year, why millennials have no friends, what asset will be the best performer over the next 10 years and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A

Aug 14, 2019 • 41:27

The Bankrupt Barber (EP.96)

The Bankrupt Barber (EP.96)

On this week's show we discuss how stocks have reacted to past Fed rate cuts, why is the stock market falling, why aren't there more unicorn companies in Japan, nature vs. nurture in your finances, why Michael bought a Peloton, Noobwhale t-shirts, can sovereign bonds really be in a bubble, CBD gyms, why people never feel rich, a rule of thumb on when to refinance, Amazon is getting into real estate, the most popular sandwiches and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s

Aug 7, 2019 • 45:51

Re-Kindled: Superforecasting (EP.95)

Re-Kindled: Superforecasting (EP.95)

On this edition of Re-Kindled we discuss Philip Tetlock's masterpiece on prediction, Superforecasting. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 5, 2019 • 30:22

Rush For the Exits (EP.94)

Rush For the Exits (EP.94)

On this week's show we discuss intellectual shaming, power laws in the stock market, the insane number of stocks that end up losers, why are fewer people driving minivans, what would happen if the USD lost reserve currency status, will there ever be negative interest rates in the US, why you should never borrow money from a friend and much more.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 31, 2019 • 40:31

Broke & Overweight (EP.93)

Broke & Overweight (EP.93)

On this week's show we discuss why are fewer people subscribing to Netflix, will we ever really reach peak podcast, how many people own their home outright, what is the chance your home will go down in value over 5 years, Elizabeth Warren's plan to rein in Wall Street, Mira Sorvino's thoughts on the stock market, Ray Dalio's thoughts on the coming paradigm shift, a boglehead's risk parity strategy on steroids & much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common

Jul 24, 2019 • 41:26

Shielded Alpha (EP.92)

Shielded Alpha (EP.92)

On this week's show we discuss the upside to social media, zombie VC companies, podcasting at Wealth/Stack, bubbles and career risk, using credit card reward points, where couples meet these days, the contradictory nature of having skin in the game, influencing and side hustling is hard, why specializing in sports could lead to more injuries and much more Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook

Jul 17, 2019 • 46:15

Talk Your Book: Agricultural Commodities

Talk Your Book: Agricultural Commodities

On this week's Talk Your Book, Michael and Ben sat down with Sal Gilbertie, CEO and founder of Teucrium Trading, an ETF provider of agricultural commodities products. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices

Jul 15, 2019 • 40:01

The Next Big Short? (EP.91)

The Next Big Short? (EP.91)

On this week's show we discuss does all the high-frequency trading at the start and end of the day matter, what trends will die off with the baby boomer generation, is Rich Dad, Poor Dad real, visualizing wealth inequality, Walmart's competition with Amazon, are banks a big short again, why did valuations get so low during the late-70s/early-80s, why does the government charge such high rates on student loan debt?, celebrating saving milestones and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blo

Jul 10, 2019 • 36:26

Talk Your Book: The Acquirer's Multiple

Talk Your Book: The Acquirer's Multiple

On this episode of Talk Your Book, we talk with Toby Carlisle, portfolio manager of the new Acquirer's Fund ETF about deep value investing. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoi

Jul 8, 2019 • 34:44

A Single Push-Up (EP.90)

A Single Push-Up (EP.90)

On this week's show we discuss why comedy movies are dying, therapy for social media, lower rates on savings accounts, Amazon as a shipping company, negative yielding debt, context around student loan debt, bank overdraft fees, how many Americans can do one push-up, the best books we've read in a long time and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an emai

Jul 3, 2019 • 44:53

Talk Your Book: Global Factor Investing

Talk Your Book: Global Factor Investing

On this week's Talk Your Book, Michael & Ben sat down with Vincent De Martel of Invesco to discuss how institutional investors are using factor investment strategies and what this means for the space going forward. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics o

Jul 1, 2019 • 39:35

The Great Depression of 2073 (EP.89)

The Great Depression of 2073 (EP.89)

On this week's show we discuss why Michael is getting back into trading, Facebook's new cryptocurrency, is it a good thing more professional investors are buying up starter homes, should Vanguard get into private equity, why Harry Dent says there will be a depression in the year 2073, can you really use demographics to predict the markets, how many people cry after selling their home, why it's better to peak late in your career, why the 1990s had much better movies than we do now and much more.

Jun 26, 2019 • 40:22

The Four Most Dangerous Words in Podcasting (EP.88)

The Four Most Dangerous Words in Podcasting (EP.88)

On this week's show we discuss are there more unicorns now because there's more money in venture capital, why we're bullish on the next gen of retirement savers, Mary Meeker's most important trends on the Internet, is the personal finance industry a scam, what works better -- fitness advice or finance advice, is QE all psychological, will Social Security run out of money, why do we need inflation at all and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sen

Jun 19, 2019 • 36:26

Talk Your Book: Trading with MarketSmith

Talk Your Book: Trading with MarketSmith

Michael & Ben sat down with Irusha Peiris to discuss the psychology behind trading, why it's so difficult to become a full-time trader, the types of stocks that can be big winners over time and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversa

Jun 17, 2019 • 40:58

Dad Cat Bounce (EP.87)

Dad Cat Bounce (EP.87)

On this week's episode we discuss our chart crime of the year candidate, the staggering amount of student loan debt, managing money for NBA players, paying for time, why the home buying decision is so personal, contradictory bubble data, does anyone need an MBA, is Chernobyl the best show ever and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animals

Jun 12, 2019 • 42:32

Talk Your Book: The Net Lease REIT ETF

Talk Your Book: The Net Lease REIT ETF

On today's Talk Your Book, Michael & Ben sat down with Chris Burbach & Alexi Panagiotakopoulos to discuss investing in REITs and their new net lease REIT ETF. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

Jun 10, 2019 • 31:26

The Influencer Bubble (EP.86)

The Influencer Bubble (EP.86)

On today's show we talk about the influencer bubble, causes of death, peak smart phone, and the intelligence of the bond market.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 5, 2019 • 25:06

Re-Kindled: Where Are the Customers' Yachts (EP.85)

Re-Kindled: Where Are the Customers' Yachts (EP.85)

Re-Kindled is a show where Michael and Ben discuss some of the best finance books ever written. On this episode of Re-Kindled Michael and Ben go through some of the lessons, passages, and funny anecdotes from Where Are The Customers' Yachts by Fred Schwed. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, rec

Jun 3, 2019 • 38:45

The Podcast Power Law (EP.84)

The Podcast Power Law (EP.84)

On this week's show we discuss the unraveling of Tesla, what it takes to be in the top 1% of podcasts, where do people listen to podcasts, what Michael learned from creating a financial plan, why the fixed costs matter more than the variable costs in your budget, why workers are fleeing big cities, should parents charge rent when their adult kids move back home, the problem with checking your portfolio performance, some thoughts on annuities, would the market be lower without buybacks, raising c

May 29, 2019 • 39:32

Talk Your Book: Help With Your Down Payment From Unison

Talk Your Book: Help With Your Down Payment From Unison

On today's Talk Your Book we sat down with Brodie Gay of Unison to discuss the difficulty of coming up with a down payment on a house, why it could make sense to share in the upside of your home, the investment opportunity in residential real estate, why real estate will play such a pivotal role in most people's retirement plans and why leveraging the roof over your head can be so dangerous. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Ir

May 27, 2019 • 32:05

The Absence of Stuff (EP.83)

The Absence of Stuff (EP.83)

On this week's show we discuss why dividends are underrated, the billionaire paying off student loans, Goldman Sachs buying United Capital, the curious case of WeWork, ETFs that pay you, struggling to figure out your career, where dead cat bounce comes from, why Michael Lewis is wrong about HFT & much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalsp

May 22, 2019 • 38:16

Talk Your Book: Jeremy Schwartz of WisdomTree

Talk Your Book: Jeremy Schwartz of WisdomTree

On today's Talk Your Book we had Jeremy Schwartz of WisdomTree on the show to discuss the firm's dividend strategies, the rise of tax-deferred accounts, currency hedging, improving the 60/40 portfolio, investing overseas, and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ide

May 20, 2019 • 31:36

Michael's Fitness Pal (EP.82)

Michael's Fitness Pal (EP.82)

On this week's show we discuss are the tech companies going to make us all fat and lazy, some good news for once in retirement saving data, the huge growth in tax-deferred accounts, how the S&P 500 has changed over the years, why is growth destroying value, why does Uber lose so much money, is it time to break up Facebook, why is it so hard to beat the S&P 500 and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor

May 15, 2019 • 37:54

The Rorschach Test (EP.81)

The Rorschach Test (EP.81)

On this week's episode we discuss why Berkshire Hathway is the market's Rorschach test, Charlie Munger is still going strong at age 95, how many companies have avoided bankruptcy because of VC money, recession calls that won't age well, lessons from the new Jeopardy! champ, surveys of the week, why investors are getting smarter, why people always think it was better 50 years ago and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The

May 8, 2019 • 36:26

Re-Kindled: The Big Short (EP.80)

Re-Kindled: The Big Short (EP.80)

Re-Kindled is a show where Michael and Ben discuss some of the best finance books ever written. On this episode, they dig into The Big Short by Michael Lewis to talk about the lessons of the financial crisis from the banks to the subprime mortgage markets to those select few who made tons of money shorting the housing market. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an

May 6, 2019 • 35:40

Remember Gchat? (EP.79)

Remember Gchat? (EP.79)

On this week's show we discuss Tesla's huge drawdown, why making your stock bets public makes it harder to have an open mind, how our perceptions about retirement change over time, why does Uber lose so much money, how Charles Schwab seems to toe the line between bank and fund firm so well, will people drop Netflix for Disney+, how Americans have spent their money over the past 75 years, do young people require a financial advisor more than old people, the name for our new podcast, how to teach

May 1, 2019 • 34:25

The Re-Readables (EP.78)

The Re-Readables (EP.78)

On this week's show we discuss is inflation dead, what should we call our new podcast where we discuss classic finance books. what if the government eliminated all student loan debt, why eliminating student loans won't fix the high cost of education, the out of body, experience in private equity fundraising, the cult status of Dave Ramsey, the $400 emergency savings stat everyone uses is wrong, do rich people really watch less TV, are reverse mortgages the retirement crisis solution for those wh

Apr 24, 2019 • 33:48

Money Made By Chance (EP.77)

Money Made By Chance (EP.77)

On this week's show we discuss the guy who bet $85k to win $1.2 million on Tiger winning the Masters, Ray Dalio's plan to save capitalism, are we really worse off than previous generations, investing in college grads, how do advisors spend their time, Disney Plus, why didn't the bull market help pensions more, why we need more house flippers, when the real world throws a wrench in your investment plan, when is the right time to meet with a financial advisor and much more. Find complete shownot

Apr 17, 2019 • 39:20

Money Makes Money (EP.76)

Money Makes Money (EP.76)

On this week's show we discuss the retirement crisis or lack thereof, average savings rates by generation, the biggest expense super savers cut back on, the Barron's cover curse, how much longer the bull market can last, why dividends aren't as important to the stock market anymore, the cost of borrowing heavily shorted stocks, what happened to the dinosaurs 66 million years ago, retirement accounts 50 years from now and much more. Follow Animal Spirits on Instagram @AnimalSpiritsPod Find co

Apr 10, 2019 • 32:27

(Fixed) The Netflix of Financial Advice (EP.75)

(Fixed) The Netflix of Financial Advice (EP.75)

On today's episode we discuss how to pay for college on the cheap, why is financial literacy in the U.S. so low, is there ever going to be a solution for the retirement savings crisis, the Netflix model for financial advice, why the financial services industry is like the fast food industry, there are plenty of rich people to go around, the Lyft IPO, how much money would it take to get you off social media for good, why Michael is the Brett Favre of writing about the CAPE ratio, credit card reco

Apr 3, 2019 • 34:11

Footing the Bill (EP.74)

Footing the Bill (EP.74)

On this week's show we discuss the yield curve inversion, the Fed vs. the bond market, baby boomers vs. millennials, Kahneman vs. Cialdini, why IPOs are almost always oversubscribed, real estate vs. the stock market, Bitcoin trading volume is fake, new hedge funds vs. old hedge funds, simple vs. complex, behavioral lessons from the blackjack table and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on F

Mar 27, 2019 • 36:56

Talk Your Book: Creating a Buffer

Talk Your Book: Creating a Buffer

On today's talk your book we discuss surviving the upside when trying to hedge, the ideal client for hedging, structured product strategies in an ETF wrapper, why complex products require more homework, timing a hedging strategy, how options are impacted by volatility and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with a

Mar 25, 2019 • 28:10

The Expectations Gap (EP.73)

The Expectations Gap (EP.73)

On this week's show we discuss the college admissions bribery scandal, does it matter where you went to college, how the tech companies can help in higher education, CalPERS is making a bigger push into private equity, the expectations gap in retirement, lifestyle creep, how corporate trauma impacts individual stocks, the new Harry Markowitz portfolio is a tad odd, how automation will impact jobs in the future for young people and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’

Mar 20, 2019 • 38:38

Talk Your Book: The Low Volatility Anomaly

Talk Your Book: The Low Volatility Anomaly

On this edition of Talk Your Book we discuss the low volatility anomaly with Invesco's Nicolas Kalivas. Topics include why low vol isn't as well known as some of the other risk factors, why finance theory doesn't always work in practice, why flows follow performance, behavioral reasons for low vol to persist as an anomaly, why rebalancing matters and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Fa

Mar 18, 2019 • 31:43

Where Were You at the Bottom (EP.72)

Where Were You at the Bottom (EP.72)

On today's episode we discuss Bill Gross, the hardest thing to do in the markets, the biggest mistake savers are making, how many workers max out their 401k, how much credit card debt is out there, what would you be willing to give up to get out of debt, how to cut your mortgage payments, why people move and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email

Mar 13, 2019 • 46:01

I Will Say This (EP.71)

I Will Say This (EP.71)

The massive rally in stocks, did the Fed turn millennials into socialists, why real estate prices haven't done as well as you think, why have U.S. stocks dominated the last century, how to run a Ponzi Scheme in a post-2008 world, free ETFs, social media trauma, the 80/20 rule in online content, how much is enough for retirement and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And

Mar 6, 2019 • 38:59

The Rich Man's Disease (EP.70)

The Rich Man's Disease (EP.70)

The meaning of work, why so many people are miserable with their career, smartphone addiction, Warren Buffett's latest shareholder letter, the greatest investor you've never heard of, the huge upside potential in a retirement portfolio, the insane rally in stocks since Christmas Eve, True Detective reviews and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us

Feb 27, 2019 • 34:26

Denominator Blindness (EP.69)

Denominator Blindness (EP.69)

Zillow's new home-flipping venture, putting auto loan delinquencies into perspective, rising student loans for people over the age of 60, why the Internet makes it easier to negotiate, how big your nest egg should be at retirement, when errors cancel each other out in the markets, the fuzzy definition of alpha, misperceptions about tax refunds and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on

Feb 20, 2019 • 38:57

The Rich Man's IRA (EP.68)

The Rich Man's IRA (EP.68)

On this week's show we discuss how index funds can differentiate themselves in a crowded field, how to wreck a pension fund, how does Renaissance Technologies make money, how much your time and vacation days are worth in terms of happiness, re-rating Boiler Room, how often to rebalance a 401k, mortgage debt vs. retirement savings and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook A

Feb 13, 2019 • 35:02

Banning Buybacks (EP.67)

Banning Buybacks (EP.67)

Amazon vs. Apple, banning stock buybacks to decrease inequality, how much pensions and endowments should have in alternatives, what to do with an underperforming money manager, why volatility is more important when drawing down your portfolio, the Fyre Fest pitch deck, what does Acorns do, low rate bank savings accounts and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel fr

Feb 6, 2019 • 36:09

Adverse Variance (EP.66)

Adverse Variance (EP.66)

Cash pouring into money market funds, how markets have changed over the past 200 years, does the US deserve a valuation premium, where are all the young star fund managers, millennials don't understand how down payments work, selling a house without a realtor, overestimating housing price gains, early thoughts on the new True Detective and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebo

Jan 30, 2019 • 35:00

Stay the Course (EP.65)

Stay the Course (EP.65)

The passing of Jack Bogle, interesting stories from his latest book, how to budget your money effectively, the impact of student loans on the housing market, what happens when baby boomers sell their stocks, the different groups that collectively own the stock market, Costco's amazing Kirkland Brand, our favorite movies from the 1990s and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Faceboo

Jan 23, 2019 • 25:37

The Richest 50 Percent (EP.64)

The Richest 50 Percent (EP.64)

WeWork's rough patch, why Sears was the Amazon of their day, the relationship between mortgage rates and home prices, how the Japanese economy has defied their demographics, asset allocation blind spots, how many millennials plan on dying in debt, why Peter Lynch walked away from his fund at the top of his game, finance Twitter 20 years from now, The Sopranos 20 years ago and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irr

Jan 16, 2019 • 35:13

Record Outflows (EP.63)

Record Outflows (EP.63)

The record outflows from stock mutual funds, what a bear market means for the wealth management industry, why timing the market is so hard, recessionary indicators, some good news for investors interested in yield, the ridiculous way some people pick funds in their 401k, credit card perks, the number of people living paycheck to paycheck and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Face

Jan 9, 2019 • 39:35

The Market Swoon (EP.62)

The Market Swoon (EP.62)

Steve Mnuchin's bizarre statement on the health of the banks, huge swings in the market from day-to-day, the causes of the market downturn, can we really blame the algos for increased volatility, is technology speeding up market cycles, stock millennials bought in 2018, performance for Ivy endowments in 2018, our review of the new Sandra Bullock movie on Netflix and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant In

Jan 2, 2019 • 38:25

The Bear Market (EP.61)

The Bear Market (EP.61)

the downturn in stocks, is a recession imminent, how often stocks go into a bear market but not a recession, why the Fed is in a no-win position, 2018's worst buzzword, how tax implications can impact your trading decisions, how different generations consume their news, how much CEOs matter to their stock price, the downfall of GE, a recession-proof business model and much more.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irr

Dec 26, 2018 • 37:51

Talk Your Book: Breaking the Market Cap

Talk Your Book: Breaking the Market Cap

On this week's Talk Your Book we discuss why market cap weighting is so hard to beat when constructing a fund, why cash outperforms the majority of stocks, the thinking behind reverse cap weighting the S&P 500, how to invest in companies with high customer satisfaction, some surprisingly strong consumer brands, qualitative investment factors and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on

Dec 24, 2018 • 26:55

 Everyone Should Earn 3 Percent (EP.60)

Everyone Should Earn 3 Percent (EP.60)

On this week's show we discuss Robinhood's checking & savings debacle, do Millennials care about financial regulations, where to find higher yields on your savings, putting fund flows into context, the number of bear markets around the globe, can individual stocks be in a bear market, the student loan crisis, the "everything" bubble, market valuations, lifestyle creep, Jimmy Butler's minivan and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Micha

Dec 19, 2018 • 36:34

Talk Your Book: International Investing

Talk Your Book: International Investing

We discuss US outperformance over foreign stocks, comparing valuations across countries and markets, why it still makes sense to diversify internationally, does factor investing work better overseas, S&P 500 envy, the problem with single variable stock picking analysis and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 17, 2018 • 31:33

Late Cycle (EP.59)

Late Cycle (EP.59)

Are we in the late cycle, why every correction always feels different, why losses this year are perfectly normal, why a shallow recession and "normal" bear market would be a good thing, why more money doesn't make rich people happier, the labor market is heating up, alpha is getting harder to find but institutional investors are still willing to pay up to try and find it, millennials really like Amazon Prime, the unbelievable ending to the Madoff saga, Michael's coat-buying experience, the new T

Dec 12, 2018 • 38:18

The Sellers Are in Control (EP.58)

The Sellers Are in Control (EP.58)

On this week's how we discuss Michael's CNBC appearances, the FIRE movement, making your savings last for 50+ years, when FIRE goes bad, the average amount people spend in retirement, steak dinners paired with investment pitches, where is the Vanguard of annuities, the pressure to work long hours in the finance industry, normal accidents & much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebo

Dec 5, 2018 • 25:58

Talk Your Book: Investing in Commodities

Talk Your Book: Investing in Commodities

We speak with Will Rhind of Graniteshares about the reasons to invest in commodities, expected returns in gold, is bitcoin a commodity, why it's so difficult to stick with an allocation to commodities, the unbelievable run in gold prices in the 1970s, how to win any argument in the markets and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at ani

Dec 3, 2018 • 35:00

Passive Income (EP.57)

Passive Income (EP.57)

Why monetizing content is so difficult, the myth of passive income, is it even possible to sell out in 2018, the difference between investing & gambling on options, how private equity ruined the grocery industry, Amazon as a scapegoat, when cash outperforms everything else, the chances of a recession, investing in art & much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free t

Nov 28, 2018 • 34:52

How to Ask the Right Questions (EP.56)

How to Ask the Right Questions (EP.56)

The 40-year history of the 401k, why the retirement system is far from perfect, the problem with cashing out your 401k, the pros & cons of multi-factor funds, competitive in factor investing, morning routines, financial regrets of the elderly, why the American dream is dying for so many in the middle class, why no one finishes non-fiction books and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us o

Nov 21, 2018 • 41:40

How to Create the Perfect Fund (EP.55)

How to Create the Perfect Fund (EP.55)

Universal basic income, the cost of paying every citizen $1,000/month, the perfect hedge fund, the language of money, the reason for the decline in youth sports, million dollar homes in San Francisco, how income variability should impact your savings rate, career advice for a new mom and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod

Nov 14, 2018 • 34:25

Spirit Animal (EP.54)

Spirit Animal (EP.54)

A timetable for the next bear market, what impact the mid-term elections have on the markets, how much money FANG CEOs have lost in the downturn, how often bonds outperform stocks over 30 year periods, the number of Americans who consider themselves financially healthy, the psychology of different price points, the government's role in the student loan crisis, why real estate returns less than you think and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common S

Nov 7, 2018 • 35:28

Panic a Little (EP.53)

Panic a Little (EP.53)

The one thing we're certain of about the markets going forward, why volatility begets more volatility in the markets, expectations vs. the economy, what to do if you've been sitting in cash, when to panic, why investors are fleeing bonds, are all the economic gains really going to the wealthy and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at

Oct 31, 2018 • 40:42

The Next Subprime (EP.52)

The Next Subprime (EP.52)

The housing market, homebuilder stocks, how much mortgage rates matter to the economy, what if there is no next subprime, how to think about inflation and your portfolio, the difficulty of owning bonds when inflation is rising, the Fed's thoughts on inverted yield curves, where chocolate milk comes from, asset location and much more.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel fr

Oct 24, 2018 • 35:23

The Healthy Correction (EP.51)

The Healthy Correction (EP.51)

The current market correction, the myth of the 401k market floor, the problem with 401k loans, the downfall of Sears, the massive size of the student loan market, what's holding back young homebuyers, value investing in taxi medallions, Amazon wants to know when you're sick, who benefits from HSAs and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email

Oct 17, 2018 • 33:30

A Committee of Geniuses (EP.50)

A Committee of Geniuses (EP.50)

The rise of social media in finance, reflections on the humble beginnings of this podcast, the case for investing in bonds, more hedge funds closing, your children are eating your retirement savings, the myth of short-termism by public companies, Amazon's minimum wage, Fed cartoons, the relentless bid and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an e

Oct 10, 2018 • 40:42

Buy the Housing Dip (EP.49)

Buy the Housing Dip (EP.49)

The new Howard Marks book on cycles, why super-investors may not be as helpful as you think, how the first Vanguard index fund was run by a part-time worker, SoftBank's lofty tech aspirations, choosing the right asset allocation for your portfolio, our beef with surveys, the fraud of the week, when to buy a house and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to s

Oct 3, 2018 • 36:29

Looming Disaster (EP.48)

Looming Disaster (EP.48)

Bond market losses, why stocks diversify bonds, pot stocks & mini bubbles, Amazon's new microwave, the massive decline in world poverty, parallels to the 1990s, why retirement calculators aren't perfect but can still be useful and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommenda

Sep 26, 2018 • 37:12

Borrowing From the Future (EP.47)

Borrowing From the Future (EP.47)

Taking financial advice from billionaires, Ray Dalio's work on debt cycles, how to think about government debt levels, why it's so hard to quantify the true amount in index funds, millennial banking habits, shrinking hedge funds, investing in foreign markets during a U.S. recession and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiri

Sep 19, 2018 • 37:03

How the Financial Crisis Affected Millennials (EP.46)

How the Financial Crisis Affected Millennials (EP.46)

How the financial crisis impacted young people, why the Fed pays attention to the 1970s, AQR's recent struggles, the difference between insurance and investing, how much money you'll spend in retirement, Kevin Garnett's accountant, Rusty the stock-picking bull and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com w

Sep 12, 2018 • 40:29

Do We Need a Recession? (EP.45)

Do We Need a Recession? (EP.45)

The FIRE movement, why you're paying so little for stuff, the private jet college tour, the new technology sector, bounties on new brokers, why celebrities are terrible with their money and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conv

Sep 5, 2018 • 32:50

When Hitler Took Cocaine (EP.44)

When Hitler Took Cocaine (EP.44)

What 8 different market indicators are telling us, the growth of the intangible economy, chart crime sell signals, the decline in high schoolers playing football, the poor performance of managed futures funds, a bad idea by Chicago, can indexing become too popular and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com wi

Aug 29, 2018 • 38:51

Why Andy Dufresne Would Make a Good Money Manager (EP.43)

Why Andy Dufresne Would Make a Good Money Manager (EP.43)

On this week's show we're joined by Morgan Housel. We discuss Elon Musk's surprising announcement, the odds we give Tesla for going private, the bubble prospects in venture capital, the impressive rise of Tinder, Peloton & Slack, is loss aversion a fallacy, which fictional character we would pick to manage our money and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free t

Aug 22, 2018 • 32:22

Funding Secured (EP.42)

Funding Secured (EP.42)

Elon Musk's bizarre tweets, the types of companies that typically go private, why stock buybacks aren't to blame for the wealth gap, why housing plays such a large role in the finances of the middle class, the prospects for gold going out of style for good, Amazon's private clothing brand, the usefulness of the CAPE ratio as a timing indicator and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on

Aug 15, 2018 • 33:15

Despite All Logic (EP.41)

Despite All Logic (EP.41)

The unraveling at Movie Pass, why Disney's streaming product will be a success, Fidelity's zero fee index funds, our biggest worry about the future, a troubling trend in personal bankruptcies, an ETF idea born out of Twitter, the lure of venture capital, credit spreads and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.c

Aug 8, 2018 • 32:25

What Worked on Wall Street (EP.40)

What Worked on Wall Street (EP.40)

Facebook's enormous stock price plunge, why life can be more challenging for young people today, the death of trend-following, hedge funds that don't want your money, the perfect day, the race to zero in ETFs, Elizabeth Banks as a fan of mid caps, why pop culture contrarian indicators don't work and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email a

Aug 1, 2018 • 52:51

The Worst 401k Advice (EP.39)

The Worst 401k Advice (EP.39)

The pie chart heard around the world, why concentrated gains in the stock market are nothing new, becoming a millionaire in your 401k, the worst 401k advice we've come across, the Vanguard of hedge funds, why value investing has performed so poorly this cycle, why so many millennials regret buying a house, the coming shortage of elderly care, inherited hindsight bias and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrele

Jul 25, 2018 • 42:01

Half the Population (EP.38)

Half the Population (EP.38)

The recession signal everyone is talking about, Amazon somehow being touted as a value stock, the paradox of choice in the fund world, houses are getting bigger, Time Warner is going to ruin HBO, how tariffs are affecting the lobster industry and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, quest

Jul 18, 2018 • 44:26

Ring the Bell (EP.37)

Ring the Bell (EP.37)

The complexity of the trade war, tech IPOs, the surprisingly strong consumer balance sheet, the housing affordability index, a concerning economic data point, the burden of student loan debt, the staggering rise of esports and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendation

Jul 11, 2018 • 38:38

Blackswan Growth (EP.36)

Blackswan Growth (EP.36)

How Bud Light used Dilly, Dilly to get you to buy more beer, some drawbacks of index funds, why hedge fund fees are finally falling, the payday lending industry, getting rich vs. staying rich, why Liam Neeson is the index funds of Hollywood and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, quest

Jul 4, 2018 • 35:42

Individual Alpha (EP.35)

Individual Alpha (EP.35)

Why household equity allocations are near all-time highs, why Robinhood could be the bank of choice for Millennials, financial planning for inconsistent incomes, 10,000 baby booms retiring every day, perspective on market valuations and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, reco

Jun 27, 2018 • 45:02

The Mother of All Credit Bubbles (EP.34)

The Mother of All Credit Bubbles (EP.34)

Some suggestions Barron's has for Warren Buffett, the latest Howard Marks letter, the "mother of all credit bubbles", why computer programmers should consider moving to the midwest, the source of the investor behavior gap, unrealistic millennial retirement goals and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with

Jun 20, 2018 • 42:39

The Oracle of Brooklyn (EP.33)

The Oracle of Brooklyn (EP.33)

We talk about Big Mistakes in the Wall Street Journal, how retirement investors are wising up, the crazy Gen Z retirement plan, why markets haven't changed much since the late-1600s, parenting money tips and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for fut

Jun 13, 2018 • 40:21

Big MIstakes (EP.32)

Big MIstakes (EP.32)

Michael's new book (Big Mistakes: The Best Investors and Their Worst Investments), how he came up with the idea for the book, where the value & momentum premiums come from, why investing is all about expectations & overreactions, Mary Meeker's new tech deck and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any

Jun 6, 2018 • 38:29

Stocks Are Not Bonds (EP.31)

Stocks Are Not Bonds (EP.31)

The risks involved in concentrated stock positions, why factor investing is so hard, the limitations of historical market data, the myth of the marshmallow test, the downfall of ESPN, Michael's book of the summer and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or id

May 30, 2018 • 43:14

What It Takes to Be Wealthy (EP.30)

What It Takes to Be Wealthy (EP.30)

The brilliance of John Bogle, how much money people in their 30s should have saved, how different age groups define wealth, thinking outside the box for CalPERS, David Einhorn's struggles, chart crimes, mortgage rates and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or

May 23, 2018 • 40:32

The Podcast Boot Camp (EP.29)

The Podcast Boot Camp (EP.29)

Why market bubbles have nothing to do with ETFs, the multi-millionaire secretary's secret, the massive revenue airline credit cards bring in, the mistakes you want to make as a young investor and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics o

May 16, 2018 • 35:39

Tesla Hathaway (EP.28)

Tesla Hathaway (EP.28)

On this week's show we discuss WeWork's community-adjusted EBITDA, Elon Musk vs. Warren Buffett & Charlie Munger, size is the enemy of outperformance, why index funds are too simple for institutional investors, why housing is a bad investment & much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedb

May 9, 2018 • 35:07

Micro Bubbles (EP.27)

Micro Bubbles (EP.27)

The most common ages in the US and what it means for the markets, micro bubbles in tech stocks, Amazon's Field of Dreams moment, Peter Lynch's stock picks, how our families impacted our thinking about finances and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas f

May 2, 2018 • 37:13

The Collaborative Podcast (EP.26)

The Collaborative Podcast (EP.26)

Morgan Housel joins this week as guest host to discuss venture capital, annoying finance phrases, Disney vs. Netflix, Tesla, Jeff Bezos and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices.

Apr 25, 2018 • 37:29

Some Things We Learned (EP.25)

Some Things We Learned (EP.25)

Why the next recession won't be like the last one, what could possibly cause market returns to be higher in the future, why states & cities are short on cash, the 200-day moving average and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of co

Apr 18, 2018 • 38:21

The False Breakdown (EP.24)

The False Breakdown (EP.24)

How to solve the financial literacy issue, the downfall of Bill Ackman & David Einhorn, how much money people think they need to retire, Drew Brees diversifying into diamonds & Much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Apr 11, 2018 • 37:48

The Lump Sum (EP.23)

The Lump Sum (EP.23)

On this week's show we discuss if we would you rather collect $1 million now or $1,000 for the rest of our lives, how the world has changed since 2008, the single best investment trait to compound capital and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for fu

Apr 4, 2018 • 27:08

Horizontal Support (EP.22)

Horizontal Support (EP.22)

Why investing is getting harder over time, why share buybacks get a bad rap, why life insurance is on the decline, two centuries of momentum and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. V

Mar 28, 2018 • 41:12

The Magic Number (EP.21)

The Magic Number (EP.21)

A possible foray into business TV for Amazon, the most well-connected man in hedge funds, how to lie with surveys, your magic retirement number & much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices.

Mar 21, 2018 • 36:29

Goodnight Moon (EP.20)

Goodnight Moon (EP.20)

The flash correction in stocks, why most people need financial advice more than investment advice, our children's book recommendations & more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphon

Mar 14, 2018 • 43:39

Brothers from Another Mother (EP.19)

Brothers from Another Mother (EP.19)

How your job should fit into your investing decisions, our thoughts on Jim Cramer, misconceptions about share buybacks and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 7, 2018 • 37:35

The Closet Indexer (EP.18)

The Closet Indexer (EP.18)

Takeaways from the latest Warren Buffett shareholder letter, the potential baby boomer retirement crisis, how millennials should think about retirement and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad

Feb 28, 2018 • 42:12

Phony Happiness (EP.17)

Phony Happiness (EP.17)

Why our memories play tricks on us in the markets, the pros & cons of private equity, the permanent portfolio, scary market predictions and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

Feb 21, 2018 • 39:00

The Meltdown (EP.16)

The Meltdown (EP.16)

On this week's show, we discuss our thoughts on the market correction, why there's been nowhere to hide from the losses, the narratives surrounding the sell-off and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Learn more about y

Feb 14, 2018 • 32:17

The Noobwhale (EP.15)

The Noobwhale (EP.15)

On this week's show we discuss the current market sell-off, the hidden risks in alternative investments, why women make better financial decisions than men and much more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation. Learn m

Feb 7, 2018 • 41:30

Cash on the Sidelines (EP.14)

Cash on the Sidelines (EP.14)

On this week's show we debate whether the Fed has really been punishing savers, take a step back and admire the current bull market, talk about the best black swan hedges and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Learn more about yo

Jan 31, 2018 • 38:48

Nobody Wants to Listen to Your Podcast (EP.13)

Nobody Wants to Listen to Your Podcast (EP.13)

On this week's show, we offer career advice to a young person starting out in finance, discuss our rules for writing effectively, talk about the craziest story we've read on the crypto craze and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conve

Jan 17, 2018 • 27:00

The Melt-Up (EP.12)

The Melt-Up (EP.12)

On this week's show, we discuss the prospects for a melt-up in the stock market, look back at the long history of bubbles in stocks, try to figure out the best investment you can make in 2018 and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conv

Jan 10, 2018 • 26:48

Hedge Fund Myths & Casual Investing Advice (EP.11)

Hedge Fund Myths & Casual Investing Advice (EP.11)

On today's show, we discuss what to do if you've been sitting in cash during the bull market, go through Ben's latest portfolio changes, do some myth-busting about hedge funds and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Lea

Jan 3, 2018 • 36:08

The Happiness Smile (EP.10)

The Happiness Smile (EP.10)

On today's show we talk about how the new tax reform will impact your paycheck next year, why happiness declines for most people until they hit their 50s, our favorite books, movies & TV shows of 2017, and more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topi

Dec 27, 2017 • 32:44

Invest Like the Worst (EP.09)

Invest Like the Worst (EP.09)

We discuss some passages from Michael's old trading diary, the reason Millennials should be praying for poor market returns, why you should read more fiction and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.   Learn more about

Dec 20, 2017 • 29:41

May Day (EP.08)

May Day (EP.08)

On today's show, we discuss Jack Bogle's dire warnings for pension funds, why women make better investors than men, how financial advisors can give good advice when their clients ask about Bitcoin and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics

Dec 13, 2017 • 30:33

A Random Walk Down Nowhere (EP.07)

A Random Walk Down Nowhere (EP.07)

On today's show, we talk about how life changes in 2017 have impacted our perspective on our finances, discuss the role technology will play in the future of the labor market, the holy grail of an investment process and more.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas

Dec 6, 2017 • 29:56

Bitcoin, Bubbles & Bananas (EP.06)

Bitcoin, Bubbles & Bananas (EP.06)

On today's show, we speak about the meteoric rise in Bitcoin through the lens of human psychology, discuss how difficult it is to break through as an up-and-coming fund manager, and some of the challenges to early retirement.   Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or

Nov 29, 2017 • 29:29

Wave Pools and Market Inefficiencies  (EP.05)

Wave Pools and Market Inefficiencies (EP.05)

On today's show, we speak about how career risk creates inefficiencies in the market, signs of froth, the Vanguard of alternatives, and ETF price wars.  Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.     Learn more about your ad choic

Nov 22, 2017 • 29:18

Evidence-Based Investing Conference Post-Mortem (EP.04)

Evidence-Based Investing Conference Post-Mortem (EP.04)

We reflect on a fun day at the Evidence-Based Investing Conference in New York City with some of our favorite talks, anecdotes, statistics, and quotes. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspiritspod@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.     Learn more about your ad choices.

Nov 17, 2017 • 30:42

The More You Pay, The Less You Get (EP.03)

The More You Pay, The Less You Get (EP.03)

We discuss what do in an environment of lower expected future returns, how can investors protect themselves from complacency, what would cause us to sell all of our stocks, and whether reading investing books make you a better investor. We also get Ben’s reaction to Jack Bogle quoting him in his new book, The Little Book of Common Sense Investing. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel

Nov 17, 2017 • 26:07

Investing is a Game of Relative, Not Absolute Skill (EP.02)

Investing is a Game of Relative, Not Absolute Skill (EP.02)

We discuss the difference between portfolio managers and portfolio management, Michael’s favorite investment book ever written, how to think about financial television, the amazing run in tech stocks, the future of the asset management business, the psychology behind dividend payments and much more. Find complete shownotes on our blogs... Ben Carlson’s A Wealth of Common Sense Michael Batnick’s The Irrelevant Investor Like us on Facebook And feel free to shoot us an email at animalspi

Nov 17, 2017 • 26:15

Animal Spirits Unleashed (EP.01)

Animal Spirits Unleashed (EP.01)

Both Ben Carlson and Michael Batnick joke that we probably talk to each other more than we talk to our own wives. Michael lives and works in New York while Ben lives and works in Michigan so the two are probably on the phone with each other a minimum of 5-6 times a day. We also hold simultaneous conversations with one another through direct messages Twitter, quick hits on Slack, text messages, email, and occasionally Skype. The majority of the time we talk about different research we're looking

Nov 15, 2017 • 28:06

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