The Pete the Planner® Show

In this episode of CalmCast, we break down one of the most misunderstood stock market tools: the circuit breaker. What triggers it, why it exists, and what it actually means for your investments. Then, we zoom out to explore how a sharp drop in U.S. markets can ripple through the global economy — impacting everything from oil prices to your grocery bill. Finally, we bring it back to you: how to set meaningful financial goals when the world feels financially unstable. Whether you're anxious about your 401(k) or just trying to stay the course, this episode is your reminder to pause, breathe, and take one solid financial step forward.

AI isn't coming for your wallet—it's already living in it. In this episode, Pete unpacks the surprising ways artificial intelligence is reshaping your financial life, from how your bank detects fraud to how scammers clone your voice. We explore the good (smart budgeting tools), the bad (AI-generated investment scams), and the weird (why your insurance premium changed without a human decision). Whether you're intrigued or uneasy, one thing's clear: ignoring AI in finance is no longer an option.

In today's episode, Pete peels back the curtain on three numbers that get tossed around like financial gospel — but may not tell the whole story. We kick off with market cap: what it actually means, how it defines a company's identity, and why share price alone can be misleading. Then, we dive into the often-misunderstood unemployment rate — a metric that sounds solid on headlines but misses huge swaths of the American workforce. Finally, Pete helps you recalibrate your budget by reexamining the age-old debate of needs vs wants, especially as the threat of a recession looms. If you're confused by the disconnect between financial headlines and your lived experience, this episode is the bridge.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we tackle the awkward truth about spending money on your health. Sure, it doesn't come with rewards points or Instagram clout, but ignoring your body's maintenance needs? That's a financial strategy with a guaranteed crash. Pete breaks down why co-pays feel like emotional theft, how preventative care is the least sexy but most valuable expense in your budget, and what it really means to invest in your future self—even when it feels like paying for a gym you barely go to. Spoiler: staying alive costs money, and that's not a scam. It's just adulthood.

Reading the Signals: What Charts, Indicators, and Your Wallet Are Telling You In this episode of CalmCast, Pete the Planner breaks down three of the most important tools for staying steady in a shaky economy: Technical Analysis – Why traders are obsessed with charts, and what you can learn from their patterns. Leading Indicators – The economic signals that whisper “recession” before anyone makes it official. Cash Flow – Your personal financial early-warning system—and how to use it to stay in control when everything else feels out of whack. Whether you're managing a portfolio or just trying to make it to next payday, this episode will help you spot the signals that matter—and ignore the noise that doesn't. Breathe easy. Make a plan. Let's get to it.

We usually talk about money problems like they're something to fix. But what if the real breakthrough is getting addicted—in the healthiest way possible—to the right financial habits? This week, Pete breaks down how to rewire your brain to crave progress instead of purchases. From the neuroscience behind smart money decisions to the financial routines that actually stick, we'll explore how to build a habit loop that pays off (literally). No shame, no spreadsheets—just practical psychology, positive momentum, and a few weirdly satisfying tips for getting hooked on financial success.

Today's markets aren't just noisy—they're downright confusing. In this episode, Pete breaks down three financial forces shaping the current economy: What short selling tells us about investor anxiety Why the yield curve just returned to normal after a historic inversion And how a simple act like rebalancing your portfolio can protect your future If you've been wondering whether the calm is real or just the eye of the storm, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we unpack the messy, funny, and sometimes frustrating financial lessons we inherited from our parents. From "Don't get a credit card" to "Buy a house ASAP," we explore what stuck, what was missing, and how to move forward without passing on the same money blind spots. Whether your parents taught you to budget or just told you to “figure it out,” this one's for you. It's time to stop surviving and start building.

In today's CalmCast, we untangle three big ideas you need to understand right now: why ETFs are outpacing mutual funds, what “core inflation” actually means (and why the Fed cares more about it than you might think), and how distinguishing fixed from variable expenses can give you immediate power over your budget. We'll explain: The sneaky fees and tax quirks hiding in mutual funds What core inflation says about where the economy's really headed Why knowing the difference between a grocery bill and a rent check might just save your financial plan This episode is fast, practical, and built to calm the chaos in your money life.

Why is it so easy to blow $30 on takeout but so hard to cancel that Amazon auto-ship of things you didn't even know you were buying? In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we unpack the psychology behind our worst financial habits—like dining out, impulse shopping, and spending to soothe our emotions. Pete breaks down the science of habit loops, explains why willpower alone doesn't cut it, and shares six practical strategies to finally kick those budget-busting behaviors to the curb. Spoiler: deleting an app might change your financial life.

Years ago, Pete created the Ideal Household Budget, a simple-yet-spicy allocation model for how Americans should be spending their money. It lit up inboxes and dinner table debates across the country. But today, the gloves are off. Dame and Kristen come ready to challenge the old model—armed with data, real-world messiness, and a whole lot of sass. Will Pete's golden ratio survive the scrutiny? Or is it time to retire the “Ideal” in favor of the “Real”? Let's find out.

In today's episode, we explore how the market's emotional extremes—its 52-week highs and lows—can mess with our perspective if we're not careful. Then we shift to Main Street with the latest retail sales numbers and what they say about how Americans are really feeling financially. Finally, we bring it home with a simple but powerful financial move: a subscription audit. Because sometimes the difference between financial stress and stability is as small as canceling that streaming service you forgot you had. Topics covered: -What 52-week highs and lows really signal-Why retail sales are flashing mixed messages-How to cut your spending without feeling the pain Watch. Listen. Breathe. Then make one good financial decision.

In today's CalmCast, we're following the money — from Wall Street to your driveway. P/E Ratio – Is the stock market overvalued? We unpack what investors are really paying for and whether the math makes sense. Producer Price Index (PPI) – A leading indicator of inflation. If it costs more to make things, guess who eventually pays more? (Hint: It's you.) Car Affordability – The average car payment is now over $700 a month — and that's not including insurance, maintenance, and rising loan terms. For many households, the new car smell now comes with old mortgage vibes. We'll help you make smarter decisions in the face of rising costs and financial pressure.

There's always a reason to wait. Maybe it's the Fed. Maybe it's student loan forgiveness. Maybe it's the housing market finally “cooling off.” But here's the truth: financial progress doesn't happen in theory—it happens in action. In this episode, we're talking about the dangerous game of waiting for someone else to fix your financial life. Whether it's PSLF hanging in the balance, interest rates hovering, or the SAVE plan in limbo, you still have decisions to make. Good medicine is still good medicine—even when the world feels like a mess. Let's stop outsourcing our momentum to headlines and hypotheticals.

In today's CalmCast, Pete breaks down three essential tools for staying steady in a shaky economy. First, we look at how diversification can protect your portfolio from market swings — because when one sector zigs, you want another to zag. Then, we wade through the latest economic data and recession chatter to explain what a slowdown really means and how often it actually happens. Finally, we spotlight the unsung hero of financial calm: the sinking fund. It's not glamorous, but it is how you survive a car repair, a vacation, or the holidays without panic. This episode is your friendly reminder: you can't predict the economy, but you can prepare for it.

You won't always have perfect data, unanimous advice, or a spreadsheet that answers all your questions—and that's okay. In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we break down how to take in feedback, sort the good from the garbage, and make smart, confident financial decisions right now, not just “someday when you know more.” Featuring Maya Angelou, a baking metaphor, and a few spicy takes on bad advice. Spoiler: doing your best is enough—until it isn't. Then you just do better.

The latest GDP numbers are in—and they tell a story of a cooling economy amid policy shifts and global uncertainty. In today's CalmCast, Pete breaks down what that actually means for your wallet. We'll look at which parts of the economy are shrinking, what sectors are still showing strength, and how tariffs and interest rates are shaping the growth story. Then we shift gears to explore why asset allocation—not stock picking—is the bedrock of a stable portfolio, especially in times like these. Finally, we wrap with a fresh take on your credit score: what really moves it, and how to use it as a tool—not a source of stress.

When a pipe burst turned their dream townhouse into a soggy mess, this week's listener found themselves with a surprise $84,000 insurance check and a big decision: buy the forever home now or wait out the madness of the housing market? In this episode, Pete, Dame, and Kristen break down whether selling a damaged home as-is is a smart financial move, what “forever home” really means in an unpredictable economy, and whether renting for a year could be a secret financial power play. If you've ever wondered whether now is the time to jump into the housing market—or stay on the sidelines—this is the episode for you. Want your financial dilemma on the show? Send it to us at askpete@petetheplanner.com. This episode is sponsored by Indiana529. Terms and conditions apply. Go to MyIndiana529.com to learn more.

In today's episode, Pete the Planner breaks down three key money topics that matter more than you think: why time in the market always wins over timing the market, what the Federal Reserve's latest pause means for your wallet, and how your debt-to-income ratio quietly controls your financial stress level. Whether you're investing for the long haul, waiting for mortgage rates to drop, or just trying to breathe easier when the bills come in, this CalmCast is your 10-minute financial reset.

In today's Storytime with Pete, we get honest about something success stories often skip: luck. Pete shares a personal realization about being born on third base — and why acknowledging luck doesn't diminish hard work, it actually makes success more meaningful. We explore why hearing about privilege feels complicated, how luck factors into building careers and wealth, and how you can put yourself in the path of opportunity without losing your hustle. This is a refreshing, empathetic take on success, luck, and financial growth that just might shift how you see your own journey.

Today on the CalmCast: We're navigating the stormy waters of a market correction, checking the pulse on rising interest rates, and breaking down the difference between using interest to grow your money — and letting it crush you. Stay calm, stay sharp, and stay in control.

You're not crazy — your bank account is under attack. This week, Pete, Kristen, and Dame dive into the sneaky financial forces draining your money (and your patience), even as inflation cools on paper. From tipping screens on $4 coffees to subscriptions you forgot existed, it's not just about how much things cost — it's how cleverly they get you to pay for them. Pete explores the emotional toll of "death by a thousand charges," Dame unpacks the data behind financial creep, and Kristen delivers the full-body eye-roll we're all feeling at checkout. Plus: Kristen's latest wallet regret, Dame's subscription shame, and Pete's escalating feud with digital convenience. Oh, and yes — we've got this week's Biggest Waste of Money and a round of financial news you actually care about.

Earnings season is here, and Wall Street is grading corporate America. But what do these earnings tell us about the economy you're actually living in? In this episode, we break down the big surprises and what they mean for your money. We also unpack the latest trends in wage growth—and how inflation is still playing referee. Finally, Pete shares why “pay yourself first” isn't just financial advice—it's a financial life raft. This 10-minute CalmCast is your antidote to the noise. Market context, economic insight, and personal finance you can actually use.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we shine a harsh but hilarious light on your financial ethics. Are you as honest with your money as you think you are? Or are you quietly fudging the rules when no one's looking—except your credit card statement? Pete walks you through a self-evaluation that's part confessional, part comedy, and fully necessary. From tipping habits to Netflix mooching, we're asking the tough questions… so you don't have to lie to yourself anymore. Grab your ego and let's go.

In today's CalmCast, we break down the emotional zoo of the stock market—why bulls charge, bears retreat, and what it all means for your money. Then, we take a deeper look at the monthly Jobs Report—beyond the headlines—uncovering what it really tells us about the economy, interest rates, and your paycheck. Finally, we bring it home with a personal finance concept that deserves more airtime: Power Percentage—your monthly measure of financial momentum, and a surprisingly calming number in volatile times. Stay calm. Stay curious. And don't let Wall Street animals scare you out of smart decisions.

What if “not needing money” doesn't mean being rich—but being free? In this episode of The Pete the Planner Show, we explore how the concept of not needing money evolves as you age. From the beautiful ignorance of childhood, to the messy middle of adulthood, all the way to the promised land of retirement—we unpack what it really means to live with financial freedom at every stage. You'll hear: Why not needing money as a kid doesn't count (but it was nice, wasn't it?) How adulthood tricks you into thinking you need more than you really do What retirees get right—and wrong—about feeling financially untouchable If you've ever fantasized about not worrying about money, this episode is your reality check (and maybe your roadmap). Thoughtful. Honest. And just a little snarky.

In this episode of CalmCast, we unpack the emotional undercurrent of the economy—consumer confidence. With recent drops in sentiment reflecting rising anxiety over inflation, tariffs, and a potential recession, we explain what these confidence numbers really mean, and why they matter more than you might think. We'll cover: The latest consumer confidence data—and why it's signaling trouble How confidence impacts your spending, borrowing, and saving habits (even if you don't realize it) A practical, personal finance action you can take this week to stabilize your own financial mindset—no matter what the headlines say Markets are reacting. People are pulling back. But you don't have to panic—you just need a plan.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we flip the script on financial frustration. Pete explores why money problems aren't detours—they're the whole journey. From busted budgets to surprise bills, he breaks down how embracing financial challenges as problem-solving opportunities can actually build confidence, resilience, and control. It's a witty, slightly snarky reminder that you're not failing—you're learning to play the game.

Episode 3 – This Economic Shift Could Hit Your Job—and Your Budget Not every part of the economy reacts the same way to a crisis. Some sectors take the brunt of it. Others benefit. And understanding who's winning and who's losing can give you a better handle on what's coming next—for the market and for your own finances. In this episode, we break down: How different sectors are reacting to the current wave of tariffs and inflation Why sector rotation—when investors shift money between industries—is happening right now What the Consumer Price Index (CPI) really tells us about inflation (and what it doesn't) Which sectors may actually benefit from Trump's new tariffs, including U.S. agriculture, auto manufacturing, and discount retail Then we bring it home: How to start funding your emergency fund by identifying flexible vs. fixed expenses Why this is the right moment to tighten up your budget—even if your income hasn't changed The economy is changing. The market is adapting. And your personal finances can too—with a little strategy and a little calm. Watch new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 PM ET on YouTube or LinkedIn. You can also subscribe to The Pete the Planner Podcast wherever you listen.

You made the plan. You followed the plan. And then—life happened. This week, Pete dives into the all-too-common reality of financial plans getting sideswiped by market shifts, unexpected expenses, and economic curveballs. From this week's inflation data to job market jitters, we explore how to stay calm, adapt, and keep moving forward when things don't go according to plan.You'll learn how to recalibrate your goals, avoid panic pivots, and build a financial life that bends without breaking. Because being flexible isn't failure—it's survival.

You made the plan. You followed the plan. And then—life happened. This week, Pete dives into the all-too-common reality of financial plans getting sideswiped by market shifts, unexpected expenses, and economic curveballs. From this week's inflation data to job market jitters, we explore how to stay calm, adapt, and keep moving forward when things don't go according to plan. You'll learn how to recalibrate your goals, avoid panic pivots, and build a financial life that bends without breaking. Because being flexible isn't failure—it's survival.

The stock market has been unpredictable lately—and the same can be said for your grocery bill. In this episode, we explain what's behind all this volatility and how it's tied to the real economy and your real life.We focus on two key themes:Market volatility – Why the market reacts so sharply to uncertainty, and what causes these swings in the first place.Supply chain disruptions – How current events, including new tariffs and global tensions, are making everyday goods more expensive.We'll also cover:Why companies are stockpiling goods and encouraging early consumer spendingHow tariffs on imports from China, Vietnam, and others are impacting pricesWhat sectors (like cars, appliances, electronics) are being hit hardestOne practical step you can take in your budget to prepare for unpredictable pricingVolatility isn't just a market issue—it's a life issue. We'll help you connect the dots and stay focused when it feels like everything is shifting.New episodes air every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 PM ET. Watch on YouTube or LinkedIn, or listen on The Pete the Planner Podcast feed.

The stock market has been unpredictable lately—and the same can be said for your grocery bill. In this episode, we explain what's behind all this volatility and how it's tied to the real economy and your real life. We focus on two key themes: Market volatility – Why the market reacts so sharply to uncertainty, and what causes these swings in the first place. Supply chain disruptions – How current events, including new tariffs and global tensions, are making everyday goods more expensive. We'll also cover: Why companies are stockpiling goods and encouraging early consumer spending How tariffs on imports from China, Vietnam, and others are impacting prices What sectors (like cars, appliances, electronics) are being hit hardest One practical step you can take in your budget to prepare for unpredictable pricing Volatility isn't just a market issue—it's a life issue. We'll help you connect the dots and stay focused when it feels like everything is shifting. New episodes air every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 PM ET. Watch on YouTube or LinkedIn, or listen on The Pete the Planner Podcast feed.

The stock market just face-planted—and while your investments may be taking a nap, your financial habits don't have to. In this episode of Storytime with Pete, Pete the Planner breaks down what to do right now to reset your spending, stop the bleeding, and build real resilience.We're not talking theory. We're talking real-life, practical stuff: – The single subscription to cancel today – A 7-day no-spend challenge that actually works – Grocery hacks to save $100 this week – Why budgeting isn't punishment—it's protectionIf you're feeling anxious about the market, your money, or just life in general—this is your reset button.

The stock market just face-planted—and while your investments may be taking a nap, your financial habits don't have to. In this episode of Storytime with Pete, Pete the Planner breaks down what to do right now to reset your spending, stop the bleeding, and build real resilience. We're not talking theory. We're talking real-life, practical stuff: – The single subscription to cancel today – A 7-day no-spend challenge that actually works – Grocery hacks to save $100 this week – Why budgeting isn't punishment—it's protection If you're feeling anxious about the market, your money, or just life in general—this is your reset button.

Series PremiereWelcome to the first episode of our new financial series, designed to help you make sense of what's happening in the market, the broader economy, and your personal finances.In this premiere, we tackle one of the most talked-about issues in the headlines right now: tariffs. You've likely noticed prices creeping up, but how much of that is due to trade policy? And are there other forces at play?In this episode:We break down how tariffs impact the market and your daily expensesWe look at how supply chain disruptions and global tensions affect inflationWe explain the real-world effects on your cost of livingAnd we share one simple, strategic move you can make to stay ahead financiallyThis series airs live every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 PM ET. Watch on YouTube or LinkedIn, or listen wherever you get your podcasts via The Pete the Planner Podcast feed.This isn't just news. It's news you can use.

Series Premiere Welcome to the first episode of our new financial series, designed to help you make sense of what's happening in the market, the broader economy, and your personal finances. In this premiere, we tackle one of the most talked-about issues in the headlines right now: tariffs. You've likely noticed prices creeping up, but how much of that is due to trade policy? And are there other forces at play? In this episode: We break down how tariffs impact the market and your daily expenses We look at how supply chain disruptions and global tensions affect inflation We explain the real-world effects on your cost of living And we share one simple, strategic move you can make to stay ahead financially This series airs live every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 PM ET. Watch on YouTube or LinkedIn, or listen wherever you get your podcasts via The Pete the Planner Podcast feed. This isn't just news. It's news you can use.

The market tanked yesterday. Investors panicked. Tariff talk is back.If you're feeling like now is definitely not the time to start investing, you're not alone. But what if that fear is actually holding you back?In this episode of The Pete the Planner Show, we tackle one of the most paralyzing money fears out there: investing. From yesterday's market meltdown—fueled by President Trump's tariffs—to the emotional rollercoaster that keeps people on the sidelines, we break down why fear is normal… but not a reason to avoid the market entirely.We explore:The most common fears keeping people from investing (and how to overcome them)What President Trump's tariffs mean for your portfolioHow to understand risk without freaking outA dead-simple 15-minute plan to start investing confidently—even if you feel like you missed your chanceIf you've ever thought, "I'm too scared to invest," this episode is for you.

The market tanked yesterday. Investors panicked. Tariff talk is back. If you're feeling like now is definitely not the time to start investing, you're not alone. But what if that fear is actually holding you back? In this episode of The Pete the Planner Show, we tackle one of the most paralyzing money fears out there: investing. From yesterday's market meltdown—fueled by President Trump's tariffs—to the emotional rollercoaster that keeps people on the sidelines, we break down why fear is normal… but not a reason to avoid the market entirely. We explore: The most common fears keeping people from investing (and how to overcome them) What President Trump's tariffs mean for your portfolio How to understand risk without freaking out A dead-simple 15-minute plan to start investing confidently—even if you feel like you missed your chance If you've ever thought, "I'm too scared to invest," this episode is for you.

In this episode, I step into the role of President—yes, really—to deliver the kind of honest, empathetic, and clear-eyed explanation of tariffs I wish we heard more often. I explore the reasoning behind the Trump administration's trade strategy, acknowledge the real economic pain many Americans are feeling, and make the case for why short-term sacrifice may be necessary for long-term strength. This isn't about politics—it's about leadership, communication, and treating people with respect, even when the news is tough.

Why does negotiation so often feel like you're lying with a handshake? In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dig into the insincerity baked into negotiation—and why it leaves you feeling like you need a shower and a moral realignment. Whether you're haggling over a salary or splitting a dinner bill, negotiation can quietly pit your values against your strategy. Pete unpacks the emotional hangover that follows, and why sometimes, what we call "negotiation" is really just a polite performance of mutual deception. It's honest, a little uncomfortable, and exactly the clarity you didn't know you needed.

Why does negotiation so often feel like you're lying with a handshake? In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dig into the insincerity baked into negotiation—and why it leaves you feeling like you need a shower and a moral realignment. Whether you're haggling over a salary or splitting a dinner bill, negotiation can quietly pit your values against your strategy. Pete unpacks the emotional hangover that follows, and why sometimes, what we call "negotiation" is really just a polite performance of mutual deception. It's honest, a little uncomfortable, and exactly the clarity you didn't know you needed.

In this episode, I step into the role of President—yes, really—to deliver the kind of honest, empathetic, and clear-eyed explanation of tariffs I wish we heard more often. I explore the reasoning behind the Trump administration's trade strategy, acknowledge the real economic pain many Americans are feeling, and make the case for why short-term sacrifice may be necessary for long-term strength. This isn't about politics—it's about leadership, communication, and treating people with respect, even when the news is tough.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dive into the oddly satisfying yet financially devastating loop of wanting money so you can buy things—and then not having money because you bought things. Pete unpacks the emotional gymnastics we perform to justify purchases and why true financial freedom might be found in the power of not clicking “Buy Now.” Come for the irony, stay for the guac metaphor.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dive into the oddly satisfying yet financially devastating loop of wanting money so you can buy things—and then not having money because you bought things. Pete unpacks the emotional gymnastics we perform to justify purchases and why true financial freedom might be found in the power of not clicking “Buy Now.” Come for the irony, stay for the guac metaphor.

Is $100,000 a year really enough to live a stable, comfortable life?In this episode, Pete breaks down the harsh reality of six-figure income in 2025 — starting with what you actually take home after taxes, 401(k contributions, and healthcare. Spoiler: it's not $100K. Then we build a real financial life around what's left, covering retirement savings, housing, transportation, food, insurance, and everything else life throws at you.If you've ever asked, “Why do I still feel broke even though I make six figures?” — this one's for you.This is the first in a new series where we build complete financial lives around real household incomes. Coming up:How to make $70,000 feel like stabilityWhat life looks like at $50,000 a yearWhy $200K doesn't guarantee wealthAnd what true financial peace looks like at any incomeSubscribe now — and let's build a life that actually works.

Is $100,000 a year really enough to live a stable, comfortable life? In this episode, Pete breaks down the harsh reality of six-figure income in 2025 — starting with what you actually take home after taxes, 401(k contributions, and healthcare. Spoiler: it's not $100K. Then we build a real financial life around what's left, covering retirement savings, housing, transportation, food, insurance, and everything else life throws at you. If you've ever asked, “Why do I still feel broke even though I make six figures?” — this one's for you. This is the first in a new series where we build complete financial lives around real household incomes. Coming up: How to make $70,000 feel like stability What life looks like at $50,000 a year Why $200K doesn't guarantee wealth And what true financial peace looks like at any income Subscribe now — and let's build a life that actually works.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dive into the tangled web of what it really means to "buy American"—especially in light of President Trump's March 26 announcement of a 25% tariff on all imported cars and auto parts. It's a bold move aimed at boosting U.S. manufacturing, but it begs the question: what actually counts as American-made anymore?Using the 2024 Cars.com American-Made Index as our roadmap, Pete uncovers some surprising truths—like why Honda might be more American than Chevy, and how Tesla quietly dominates the list. If you've ever proudly bought a “domestic” vehicle, this one's for you.Let's hit the gas on the truth behind those red, white, and blue bumpers.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we dive into the tangled web of what it really means to "buy American"—especially in light of President Trump's March 26 announcement of a 25% tariff on all imported cars and auto parts. It's a bold move aimed at boosting U.S. manufacturing, but it begs the question: what actually counts as American-made anymore? Using the 2024 Cars.com American-Made Index as our roadmap, Pete uncovers some surprising truths—like why Honda might be more American than Chevy, and how Tesla quietly dominates the list. If you've ever proudly bought a “domestic” vehicle, this one's for you. Let's hit the gas on the truth behind those red, white, and blue bumpers.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we unpack the financial mirage that is the tax refund. Sure, it feels like free money—but it's really your own cash making a dramatic return after spending a year with the IRS. Pete breaks down why getting a big refund isn't a win, how it exposes flawed money management, and what you can do to turn that refund into a financial reset (instead of a regrettable shopping spree). It's funny, it's a little uncomfortable, and—most importantly—it'll change how you think about your next refund check.

In this episode of Storytime with Pete, we unpack the financial mirage that is the tax refund. Sure, it feels like free money—but it's really your own cash making a dramatic return after spending a year with the IRS. Pete breaks down why getting a big refund isn't a win, how it exposes flawed money management, and what you can do to turn that refund into a financial reset (instead of a regrettable shopping spree). It's funny, it's a little uncomfortable, and—most importantly—it'll change how you think about your next refund check.