Down the Middle

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!Important Legal Disclosure: creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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 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

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 miss each of their monthly tips!Important Legal Disclosure: creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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 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

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!Important Legal Disclosure: creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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!Important Legal Disclosure: creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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!Important Legal Disclosure: creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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 each of their monthly tips!Important Legal Disclosure: creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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!Important Legal Disclosure: creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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 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

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-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

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 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

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 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

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 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

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:creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions?Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

“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!Important Legal Disclosure:creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions?Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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!Important Legal Disclosure:creativeplanning.com/important-disclosure-information/Have questions or topic suggestions?Email us @ podcasts@creativeplanning.com

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 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

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 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

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 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