Down the Middle

This month, Peter and Jeff take on the United States’ $40 trillion national debt, discussing how we got here, what it could mean for the economy and whether AI-fueled growth could offer a way out. Plus, get their tips of the month for helping children and grandchildren get a financial head start.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each o...

This month, Peter and Jeff dig into the AI question everyone’s arguing about: Is this the internet in 1996 or the internet in 1999? They get into how the winners and losers may shake out, what AI could actually do to the broader economy and why oil prices are swinging. Plus, get their tip of the month. Twelve minutes, straight down the middle. 

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the econo...

This month, Peter and Jeff unpack the new Trump Accounts, dig into what the latest Social Security report means for future retirees, and explain why so many asset classes have suddenly been moving in lockstep. Plus, you won’t want to miss their tips of the month.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their m...

Summer is heating up, and so are the markets. This month, Peter and Jeff break down two of Wall Street’s hottest topics: the boom in private credit and the return of the IPO. What’s fueling the frenzy, where’s the risk and what should investors watch? Get the answers to these questions plus their tips of the month.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the mark...

The stock market just hit another record high; so did your grocery bill. That’s the K-shaped economy in one sentence. One American is getting richer, while the other can’t keep up with rent. Peter and Jeff dig into who’s actually winning, why the gap keeps widening and what it means for your paycheck, your portfolio and your plans. Stick around for their tips of the month.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth...

Over the past several weeks, tensions in the Middle East have intensified, raising concerns about energy supply disruptions and the potential for broader regional conflict. Peter and Jeff discuss the ongoing conflict with Iran and what it may mean for investors. Plus, get their tips of the month.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their mont...

After a decade of outperformance, U.S. stocks have recently cooled. Peter and Jeff name several factors contributing to this shift, share major factors in the United States’ favor long term and discuss where else investors are going with their dollars. Plus, get their tips of the month. 

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly...

Peter and Jeff share how oil is priced into everything we do, discussing the factors influencing cost, what the political interest is and who the winners and losers are when prices are volatile. Plus, learn why you should consider maintaining insurance outside your workplace.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Impor...

From the imposition of sweeping tariffs to Nvidia becoming the first $4 trillion — and later $5 trillion — market cap company, 2025 was an eventful year with much to take in. In this episode, Peter and Jeff discuss the Magnificent 7’s recent performance, the future of AI, where interest rates might be headed and more. Plus, each provides a tip of the month to help support your well-being in the year ahead.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussi...

In this jam-packed episode, Peter and Jeff discuss 50-year mortgages, the Magnificent 7’s recent pullback and low consumer sentiment before offering their tips of the month.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Important Legal Disclosure: 
creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/

Have questions or topic suggestions? 
Email us @ podcasts@creativeplann

This month, Peter and Jeff discuss two trending topics — the government shutdown and the likelihood of a recession — and the impact they're having on the markets. Plus, hear smart money moves to consider implementing before year-end.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Planning, Jeff Stolper, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Important Legal Disclosure: 
creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/

Have quest...

The Federal Reserve recently lowered interest rates despite the market remaining near all-time highs — something that’s occurred only 20 times previously. Peter and Jeff discuss the potential reasoning for this move as well as the outcome seen 100% of the time historically. Plus, Peter shares the news of Jonathan Clements’ recent passing.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of the...

Peter Mallouk recalls when he first learned of Jonathan Clements and how the two became close friends before introducing a clip show of Jonathan’s finest Down the Middle wisdom. He also shares the plan for Down the Middle moving forward amid Jonathan’s continued health struggles.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

We've seen weak performance from U.S. large-cap tech companies this year, but based on their stock market value, these companies still dominate the U.S. market. Peter and Jonathan discuss whether we should be concerned about concentration risk or if having a top-heavy market is a common phenomenon. Plus, hear why you might consider contributing to a Roth IRA for your working child.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on fin...

In recent decades, there’s been a lot of academic research on the topic of happiness — and the resulting insights can benefit us all. Peter and Jonathan share these insights and more as they discuss the keys to a happier life. Plus, learn why you might consider consulting or working part time during retirement.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to...

With the recent downgrade on U.S. government debt by Moody’s and a tax bill making its way through Congress that’s projected to widen the federal deficit by a quarter trillion dollars per year over the next decade, how worried should we be about the federal government budget deficit? Peter and Jonathan discuss the deficit, its possible consequences and how we can potentially balance the budget. Plus, learn about the Jonathan Clements Getting Going on Savings Initiative.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a clos...

Why do many feel this year’s stock market volatility rivals much worse declines of the past? And why are the market’s moments of weakness such a gift for the individual investor? Peter and Jonathan answer these questions and provide their tips for the month. 

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Impor...

The U.S. stock market has had a rocky start to the year, with some indexes falling more than 10%. Peter and Jonathan discuss what triggered the decline and whether share prices are likely to struggle in the months ahead. Plus, each gives their tip of the month.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips...

Peter and Jonathan discuss what defines an “alternative investment” and what investors can potentially get from these assets that they can't get elsewhere. Plus, a reminder to keep politics out of your portfolio and why it might be worth taking a second look at your tax return.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

The Trump administration has issued a flurry of proposals and pronouncements affecting trade, taxes, immigration, energy policy and more. What might these mean for the economy and financial markets moving forward? Plus, Peter and Jonathan share tips for teaching young children to value money and helping teenagers understand paycheck deductions.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss...

With the new year upon us, what financial resolutions should you be making? From lump sum investing to charitable giving, Peter and Jonathan share several actionable tips for the year ahead. Plus, learn why it's important to keep good records of any money spent on home improvements.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips...

With 2024 almost in the books, what will the year ahead mean for investors? Peter and Jonathan discuss the four major investment asset classes — cash, bonds, stocks and private investments — and what investors can reasonably expect. Plus, a reminder to practice gratitude and what to look for before making a lump-sum investment in a stock fund within a taxable account.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the market...

With just two months left in 2024, time is limited to make important decisions affecting your tax bill, retirement contributions and more. Peter and Jonathan share the potential benefits of tax-loss harvesting, Roth conversions, donor-advised funds, flexible spending accounts and other key planning strategies to consider implementing before year-end. Plus, hear why bringing up financial topics with the family at Thanksgiving might not be such a bad idea after all.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in...

Almost two years into the current stock market rally, worries over the economy, interest rates and this year’s presidential election have many investors feeling on edge. Peter and Jonathan give their take on why some investors have trouble sticking with their long-term asset allocation (and how media narratives contribute). Plus, learn why you should audit your cell phone app settings and consider clearing out your basement. 

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on fi...

The stock market had a rough start in August after a mostly calm year. But what’s considered “normal”? Peter and Jonathan answer this question and discuss why all risk isn’t rewarded in this month’s episode. Plus, learn what you should do when you have a concentrated stock position and why now’s a worse time than usual to be sitting on cash.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issue...

Gifting and charitable giving are great ways to make an impact. But how should you determine which people and causes to support? This month, Peter and Jonathan discuss how to become intentional about your giving. Plus, learn the benefits of establishing a donor-advised fund and why you might consider funding a Roth IRA for your teen.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you wo...

In this episode of Down the Middle, Peter Mallouk takes on the role of interviewer as Jonathan Clements shares a significant life update. Through their personal and candid conversation, listeners will gain both an inspirational outlook and practical advice.

Hosted by Creative Planning’s Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Important Legal Disclosure:

crea...

“Do as I say, not as I do” doesn’t work in most scenarios — and it certainly doesn’t work when teaching children about finances. Join Peter and Jonathan as they share personal stories and practical financial literacy lessons that can help the next generation learn fiscal responsibility. 

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

I...

Pave a clear path to a happy retirement by considering often overlooked elements of retirement planning on this episode of Down the Middle with Peter Mallouk and Jonathan Clements. Plus, learn about mortgage recasting and when it may be beneficial for you to consider it.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Imp...

Join Peter and Jonathan as they explore how to determine the optimal balance between cash equivalents and other investments. While cash may be appealing to investors in the short term, learn why attempting to time the market isn’t advisable and gain valuable insights to help enhance your long-term investment strategy. Plus, explore whether a revocable living trust is the right choice for your estate planning needs.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on fi...

Investing may seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. This month, Peter and Jonathan dive into several major themes featured in Peter’s latest book, Money, Simplified. From home bias to market optimism, this discussion offers key takeaways for novice and savvy investors alike. Plus, discover why tax diversification of your retirement portfolio may give you added flexibility down the road.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the econo...

As we witness unexpected market resilience and experience all-time highs for the first time in two years, many investors find themselves uncertain about their next steps. Join Peter and Jonathan as they dissect the driving force behind our recession-free status and explore not only the impact of political elections on markets but also the challenges of forecasting in an efficient market. Plus, discover why you might want to consider adjusting your home and auto insurance deductibles. 

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into t...

With the markets experiencing a significant rebound in 2023, many investors are wondering what lies ahead. Join Peter and Jonathan as they dissect the economic landscape heading into 2024, from the Federal Reserve’s surprising moves to the evolving role of inflation. Plus, gain insights into when and how to rebalance your investments during a market recovery.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want...

Investing is all about managing risk, and one of the biggest risks we face is our reaction to the latest news, financial and otherwise. This month, Peter and Jonathan look ahead to possible developments in 2024 and the risks they pose. Plus, how much you should have in bonds when you receive other regular income and why you should ask your children ahead of time what “stuff” they’d like to inherit.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in...

From worries about political upheaval to the viability of the traditional balanced portfolio, Peter Mallouk and Jonathan Clements tackle four key questions currently on investors’ minds. Plus, a reminder about paying down debt and advice for staying calm in the face of market volatility.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Important Legal ...

Over the past 21 months, higher interest rates have hurt stock returns. But will that continue? Peter Mallouk and Jonathan Clements tackle this question on this month’s episode.Plus, Peter encourages listeners to “celebrate along the way” — and discusses the sad news prompting his advice.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Important L...

This month, Peter Mallouk and Jonathan Clements discuss what factors help make a college degree “worth it,” when parents should pay for their children’s educations and whether students should get a job while in college. Plus, get tips for 529 plans and learn why you should always look into travel medical insurance when going abroad.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to...

In light of recent research, Peter Mallouk and Jonathan Clements revisit the age-old question of whether money can buy happiness and discuss the best way to spend one’s wealth. Plus, the case for umbrella insurance and a reminder to double-check your rental car insurance coverage. 

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Impo...

From good health to a thriving social network, Peter Mallouk and Jonathan Clements discuss several key ingredients for a good retirement. Plus, learn two things you should do with your bucket list right now.

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Important Legal Disclosure: 
creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/

Have questions or top...

Hosted by Creative Planning Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, and President, Peter Mallouk, this podcast takes a closer look into topics that affect investors. Included are in-depth discussions on financial planning issues, the economy and the markets. Plus, you won’t want to miss each of their monthly tips!

Important Legal Disclosure: 
creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/

Have questions or topic suggestions? 
Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com