The Long Term Investor
We all need to make smart decisions with our money. The Long Term Investor shows you how to do it. Hosted by the Chief Investment Officer at Plancorp and author of “Making Money Simple,” Peter Lazaroff distills complex financial matters into easily digestible lessons. If you’re ready to get a clear plan for your investments and personal finances, you’re in the right place.
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Will The US National Debt Cause Problems Soon? (EP.158)
06/26/2024
Will The US National Debt Cause Problems Soon? (EP.158)
The US national debt is a significant and often misunderstood topic: With the current debt sitting at around $34.6 trillion, many wonder if this signals an impending crisis. Peter breaks down what this figure means and explores the broader implications (many of which may surprise you). Listen now and learn: Differences between the deficit, the debt, and the debt ceiling How US government finances are very different than household finances Why inflation, not default, is the real risk of our deficit spending Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Why the US Dollar Rules the World: A Deep Dive into Reserve Currencies (EP.157)
06/19/2024
Why the US Dollar Rules the World: A Deep Dive into Reserve Currencies (EP.157)
While the US dollar currently enjoys a dominant position as the world's reserve currency, various factors could challenge its supremacy. Emerging economies, digital currencies, geopolitical shifts, and global financial reforms all pose potential threats. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating the future of global finance. Listen now and learn: What it means to be a reserve currency Why the US dollar is the dominant reserve currency The probability and implications of the US dollar losing its reserve status Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Jesse Cramer On The Astounding Math Behind Car Ownership (Rewind) (EP.156)
06/12/2024
Jesse Cramer On The Astounding Math Behind Car Ownership (Rewind) (EP.156)
Jesse Cramer, author of The Best Interest, joins the show to share his in-depth research into the astounding math behind car ownership. This episode originally aired in 2023 and was a top interview of the year. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for the impact big purchases can have on your finances. Listen now and learn: How to evaluate the impact of time owned vs miles driven When purchasing a used car is smarter than buying a new car How leasing compares to owning from a cost perspective To see the original show notes, YouTube interview, and resources visit this page: Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. TIMESTAMPS (4:08) The Primary Costs of Car Ownership (11:08) Buy a New Car vs Buying a Used Car (17:48) The Difference in Cost of Owning a Gas vs Electric Vehicle (19:08) Evaluating a Car’s Utility (28:08) Buying a Car vs Leasing a Car (32:08) When to Repair a Car vs Buy a Car
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Ashby Daniels Challenges Conventional Wisdom (Rewind) (EP.155)
06/05/2024
Ashby Daniels Challenges Conventional Wisdom (Rewind) (EP.155)
The problem with conventional wisdom is that it represents the masses, but there's a whole host of things that conventional wisdom gets wrong. By default, that feeds into what investors get wrong. This episode with Ashby Daniels originally aired in 2023 and was a top interview of the year. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for your investing strategy and how you think about risk. Listen now and learn: What investors get wrong A new way to think about risk How to define investment success To see the original show notes, YouTube interview, and resources visit this page: Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. TIMESTAMPS (3:32) Blaming the Market Instead of Yourself (10:03) Defining Risk (16:49) How to Define Investment Success (21:33) No Need to Be Smart. Just Don’t Be Stupid (30:48) Investing Like an Optimist (35:57) The Value of a Financial Advisor
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Michael Kitces On AI And The Evolution Of Financial Advice (Rewind) (EP.154)
05/29/2024
Michael Kitces On AI And The Evolution Of Financial Advice (Rewind) (EP.154)
Michael Kitces is one of the industry’s leading experts on all things financial advice and financial planning. In this live episode recorded at Wealth Management EDGE, Michael explains the evolution of financial advice and how AI might impact the profession going forward. This episode originally aired in 2023 and was a top interview of the year. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for the evolution of financial advice. Listen now and learn: The evolution of financial advice from the 1960s to present Ways consumers benefit from financial advisors moving up the value chain How AI might impact the financial advice profession To see the original show notes, YouTube interview, and resources visit this page: Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. TIMESTAMPS: (3:33) The Evolution of Financial Advice (12:33) The Lack of Barriers to Entry for Giving Financial Advice (18:33) The Impact of AI on the Financial Advice Profession
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Carl Richards On What Real Financial Advice Means (Rewind) (EP.153)
05/22/2024
Carl Richards On What Real Financial Advice Means (Rewind) (EP.153)
In this episode, I’m joined by Carl Richards, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and creator of the Sketch Guy column, appearing weekly in The New York Times since 2010. This episode originally aired in 2023 and was a top interview of the year. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for your investing strategy. Listen now and learn: How investors fall victim to the behavior gap What it means to do real financial planning The best way to avoid “The Big Mistake” To see the original show notes, YouTube interview, and resources visit this page: Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. TIMESTAMPS: (04:30) What is the Behavior Gap? (07:45) Why Investors Get Distracted (11:05) What Investors Need When Markets Are Scary (17:30) Real Financial Planning (24:30) Getting Ahead vs. Having Enough (30:00) The Value of a Real Financial Advisor
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Burton Malkiel on A Random Walk Down Wall Street (Rewind) (EP.152)
05/15/2024
Burton Malkiel on A Random Walk Down Wall Street (Rewind) (EP.152)
Dr. Burton Malkiel, author of A Random Walk Down Wall Street, joins the show to talk about the 50th anniversary of his investment classic. This episode originally aired in 2023 and was a top interview of the year. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for your investing strategy. Listen now and learn: The two biggest mistakes investors make Lessons from market bubbles of the past Practical ideas for achieving investment success Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. (03:00) What Efficient Market Hypothesis Means for Investors (19:15) Lessons Learned from The History and Bubbles (29:00) How Interest Rates Are Impacting Stock Prices (32:30) The Case for Diversification (42:05) Behavioral Finance
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The Pursuit of Meaningful Wealth ft. Khe Hy (EP.151)
05/08/2024
The Pursuit of Meaningful Wealth ft. Khe Hy (EP.151)
Khe Hy of Rad Reads and The Examined Life Podcast joins to discuss the pursuit of meaningful wealth by balancing money, time, and happiness. Listen now and learn: Why not all hours are valued equally and the importance of aligning activities with true life purposes How the value of money diminishes as wealth growths The issue with retirement planning that focuses too much on trading time today for more time later Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. (06:18) The Value of Time (10:12) Diminishing Returns of Money and Marginal Utility (14:38) Balancing Financial Independence and Time (20:34) Questioning Financial Independence Conventional Wisdom (31:36) The Scarcity Mindset and Non-Money Fears
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Roth vs Traditional 401(k)s: Which Is Right For You? (EP.150)
05/01/2024
Roth vs Traditional 401(k)s: Which Is Right For You? (EP.150)
How do you choose between a Roth and a Traditional 401(k)? Explore the financial implications of each option as we break down what it means for your current taxes, future gains, and overall retirement strategy. Listen now and learn: How to strategically choose the right 401(k) type based on your career stage and future income expectations. Benefits of tax diversification vs tax timing. Practical tips for making the right decisions with your retirement savings. Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Financial Planning for Female Breadwinners ft Sara Gelsheimer (EP.149)
04/24/2024
Financial Planning for Female Breadwinners ft Sara Gelsheimer (EP.149)
This episode welcomes back Sara Gelsheimer, Senior Wealth Manager at Plancorp, to discuss the challenges and strategies for female breadwinners, balancing career and family, and the importance of integrating mental wellness into financial planning. Listen now and learn: The importance of becoming more involved and confident in your financial life Practical strategies to negotiate better work-life balance. The importance of education, asking questions, and the role of effective communication in financial planning Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. (02:04) Empowering Women in Finance (05:54) Challenges for Female Breadwinners (08:34) Tailored Financial Planning for Women (09:09) Balancing Career and Family as a Working Mom (14:37) Financial Planning Strategies for Women Leading Financially (21:59) Integrating Mental Wellness into Financial Planning (24:00) Emerging Financial Trends and Advice for Women
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Investing at All-Time Highs and Preparing For the Next Market Crash (EP.148)
04/17/2024
Investing at All-Time Highs and Preparing For the Next Market Crash (EP.148)
Originally aired on The Best Interest Podcast, Peter shares insights on why all-time highs are more common than one might think, the importance of maintaining a long-term perspective, and why trying to time the market is an unwise strategy. Listen now and learn: How often you should expect corrections and bear markets The primary long-term driver of stock returns The importance of understanding the conflicts of experts giving advice Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. [02:25] Investing at All-Time Highs [04:47] Market Cycles and Volatility [11:20] The Limits of Market Timing [17:52] The Cyclical Nature of Stocks [24:19] The Connection Between Stocks and Earnings
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What is the Retirement Podcast Network? ft Taylor Schulte and Benjamin Brandt (EP.147)
04/10/2024
What is the Retirement Podcast Network? ft Taylor Schulte and Benjamin Brandt (EP.147)
Taylor Schulte and Benjamin Brandt join the show to talk about the Retirement Podcast Network and share valuable perspectives on various retirement-related topics. Listen now and learn: How to leverage the Retirement Podcast Network to enhance your retirement readiness The major pain points retirees and those planning for retirement face Diverse ideas on how to approach advanced retirement planning strategies Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. 02:34 Origin of the Retirement Podcast Network 07:09 Retirement Planning Beyond Investing 10:18 Retirement Income Strategies 14:10 Strategic Roth Conversions Are Great, But Not Everything 17:36 Long-Term Care Planning 20:58 Future Content Hubs at Retirement Podcast Network
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Is the S&P 500 Too Concentrated? (EP.146)
04/03/2024
Is the S&P 500 Too Concentrated? (EP.146)
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of the S&P 500's index concentration, spotlighting the unprecedented impact of the 'Magnificent 7' on market dynamics and investor strategies. Listen now and learn: The historical context and current state of S&P 500 market concentration. Diversification strategies for mitigating investment risks associated with the 'Magnificent 7' How the performance of equal-weighted vs. market-cap-weighted indices offers insight on today’s market health and investment opportunities. Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Behind The Scenes: How Peter Views Portfolio Construction (EP.145)
03/27/2024
Behind The Scenes: How Peter Views Portfolio Construction (EP.145)
In this episode, Peter shares his interview from Investipal’s Podcast about all things portfolio construction and investment management. Listen now and learn: How Peter thinks about designing portfolios When to think about deviating from an index strategy Novel ways to remove bias from a portfolio decision Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. Episode Timestamps: (02:59) Portfolio Construction Philosophy (12:16) Quantitative vs. Fundamental Approach (30:45) Reducing Emotional Biases
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Why You Must Take Capital Gains to Rebalance Your Portfolio (EP.144)
03/20/2024
Why You Must Take Capital Gains to Rebalance Your Portfolio (EP.144)
When it comes to the disciplined approach of portfolio rebalancing, investors often find themselves in a conundrum, particularly with the necessity of realizing capital gains. This episode explores the tradeoff between maintaining a strategic, long-term asset allocation versus a higher tax bill. Listen now and learn: Why many investors might soon need to realize some capital gains The importance of rebalancing and maintaining your target asset allocation Strategies to mitigate the tax impact of portfolio rebalancing Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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How to Define What is “Enough” Financially with Manisha Thakor (EP.143)
03/13/2024
How to Define What is “Enough” Financially with Manisha Thakor (EP.143)
Manisha Thakor, author of MoneyZen: The Secret to Finding Your “Enough,” joins the show to share practical steps to embrace a life of “enough.” Listen now and learn: Strategies to resist societal pressures that equate success with perpetual accumulation. Ways to recognize when you have enough and how this realization can transform your approach to life and money. 7 steps for implementing a Joy-Based Spending program to maximize your happiness. Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. [02:51] Understanding Money Zen [05:21] How People End Up in the Cult of Never Enough [18:20] Science of Hustle and Work-Life Balance [23:30] How to Implement Joy-Based Spending
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Why Nvidia's Boom Isn’t a Missed Opportunity (EP.142)
03/06/2024
Why Nvidia's Boom Isn’t a Missed Opportunity (EP.142)
In this episode, we delve into the heart of Nvidia’s recent surge and why it's not the missed opportunity it might seem. Listen now and learn: Nvidia’s role in the AI and tech boom Strategies to overcome feeling like you "missed an investment opportunity" Why you do not need to chase "hot stocks" to be a successful investor Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Evaluating Retirement Withdrawal Strategies with Christine Benz (EP.141)
02/28/2024
Evaluating Retirement Withdrawal Strategies with Christine Benz (EP.141)
In this episode, we’re joined by Christine Benz, Director of Personal Finance at Morningstar, who shares fascinating insights from her latest co-authored paper: "The State of Retirement Income 2023." Listen now and learn: Motivations for safe withdrawal rate research Nuances of the 4% withdrawal rule Implications of today’s environment for retirement spending strategies Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. 02:28 Motivation Behind the Research 03:54 The 4% Withdrawal Rule: An Overview and Its Shortcomings 07:15 Variables Impacting the Ideal Withdrawal Rate 12:45 The Impact and Value of Early Financial Gifts 17:16 The Advantage of Dynamic Spending Strategies 21:07 Upcoming Book: "How to Retire – 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement"
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5 Reasons You Need a Financial Plan That Have Nothing to Do With Money (EP.140)
02/21/2024
5 Reasons You Need a Financial Plan That Have Nothing to Do With Money (EP.140)
You need money for everything, but money isn’t everything. That’s why there are a number of non- financial reasons you ought to embrace financial planning. Listen now and learn: How blueprinting your life goes beyond a budget How financial planning can strengthen your bond with loved ones How a financial plan turns time from a fleeting resource into a strategic asset Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Advanced Executive Compensation Strategies With Derek Jess (EP.139)
02/14/2024
Advanced Executive Compensation Strategies With Derek Jess (EP.139)
The conversation continues with Derek Jess, Senior Wealth Manager and Shareholder at Plancorp, who returns to delve deeper into executive compensation planning strategies. Listen now and learn: Key strategies for deferred compensation plans Advanced strategies for exercising stock options The important nuances of establishing a 10b5-1 plan Be sure to also check out last week’s episode with Derek about . [02:00] Advanced Deferred Compensation Planning Strategies [11:35] Advanced Strategies for Exercising Stock Options [16:20] Understanding AMT Planning for Incentive Stock Options [21:25] The Importance of Setting a 10b5-1 Plan Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Equity Compensation Strategies: Everything You Need to Know With Derek Jess (EP.138)
02/07/2024
Equity Compensation Strategies: Everything You Need to Know With Derek Jess (EP.138)
Derek Jess, Senior Wealth Manager and Shareholder at Plancorp, shares his vast knowledge of integrating equity and executive compensation into comprehensive financial planning strategies. Listen now and learn: The essential considerations and tax implications for incorporating equity compensation into your financial plan Unique risks faced by employees with large company stock positions A systematic approach to managing company stock Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. [2:17] Understanding Deferred Compensation [3:43] Equity Compensation and Vesting Schedules [6:01] Restricted Stock vs. Stock Options [9:21] Tax Implications of Stock Options [14:05] Employee Stock Purchase Plans [17:36] Concentrated Stock Positions and Risks [21:05] Integrating Company Stock in Financial Planning [33:06] A Systematic Approach to Managing Company Stock
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Investing in Stocks at All-Time Highs (EP.137)
01/31/2024
Investing in Stocks at All-Time Highs (EP.137)
Peter provides a data-driven analysis of what investing in stocks at an all-time high means for investors today. Listen now and learn: The significance of all-time highs in the stock market How current dynamics fit into the natural growth cycle of the market Insights into balancing risk and opportunities that lead to confident investment decisions Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Decoding 2024's Investment Landscape with Callie Cox (EP.136)
01/24/2024
Decoding 2024's Investment Landscape with Callie Cox (EP.136)
Callie Cox, an acclaimed investment analyst, shares her expertise on navigating the complexities of the financial world in 2024. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that blends technical analysis with practical advice for both seasoned and aspiring investors. Listen and learn: What sparked the year-end rally and what to expect in 2024 Key insights from eToro’s Retail Investor Survey What to expect from Big Tech in 2024 Detailed show notes and resources can be accessed at . [1:30] Reflecting on the Fourth Quarter 2023 Rally [9:30] Market Leadership and Trends [15:10] The Surge in Money Market Fund Flows [19:20] The Case For Optimism in 2024 [22:50] Insights from eToro’s Retail Investor Survey [29:15] Potential Impact of a Bitcoin ETF
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Bitcoin ETF’s Are Here, Should You Invest? (EP.135)
01/17/2024
Bitcoin ETF’s Are Here, Should You Invest? (EP.135)
This episode explores the groundbreaking approval of spot price bitcoin ETFs by the SEC. Understand the impact of this development on investors Listen now and learn: How spot price bitcoin ETFs differ from previous bitcoin ETF products The nuances of popular bitcoin investment theses Important questions to ask prior to investing in bitcoin Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Mastering Change in Life and Work ft. Brad Stulberg (EP.134)
01/10/2024
Mastering Change in Life and Work ft. Brad Stulberg (EP.134)
This episode features a deep conversation with renowned author and coach Brad Stulberg, exploring the intricate dynamics of mastering change in both personal and professional spheres. Drawing from Stulberg’s latest book, “Masters of Change: How to Excel When Everything is Changing – Including You,” they delve into the science behind change and how individuals can navigate change effectively. Listen now and learn: How embracing change paves the path to true stability Way to achieve rugged flexibility Why core values play an essential role as anchors amidst change Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions. [2:14] The Science of Change [7:20] Rugged Flexibility and The Importance of Core Values [16:00] How a Diversified Identity Reduces Fear and Increases Resilience [22:15] Tragic Optimism [28:20] Reacting vs Responding to Change
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Setting Meaningful Money Resolutions (EP.133)
01/03/2024
Setting Meaningful Money Resolutions (EP.133)
In this episode, we explore setting financial goals that transcend mere numbers. Listen now and learn: Why most money goals aren’t aligned with holistic wealth How to set meaningful financial goals Ways to align your spending with those goals Visit for show notes, free resources, and a place to submit questions.
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Investing in Retirement (Rewind) (EP.132)
12/27/2023
Investing in Retirement (Rewind) (EP.132)
This is the sixth episode of the Investing By Age series. The episode originally aired in July of 2022 in a six-part series. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for your finances. As you retire and transition from saving to spending, there are several unique planning opportunities and challenges that arise. Listen now and learn: How to simplify your investments Strategies for minimizing your total lifetime tax bill Different ways to navigate healthcare costs To listen to the entire 6-part series this episode aired with, visit and listen to: You’ll also find all the show notes, free resources, and links mentioned in this episode.
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Investing in Your 60s (Rewind) (EP.131)
12/20/2023
Investing in Your 60s (Rewind) (EP.131)
This is the fifth episode of the Investing By Age series. The episode originally aired in July of 2022 in a six-part series. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for your finances. In your 60s, retirement is approaching quickly. The decisions you make in the few years leading up to retirement and the first few years of retirement are potentially the most impactful financial decisions of your lifetime. Listen now and learn: How to prepare for market downturns before retirement A simple strategy for projecting future expenses Where to download a comprehensive retirement readiness checklist To listen to the entire 6-part series this episode aired with, visit and listen to: You’ll also find all the show notes, free resources, and links mentioned in this episode.
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Investing in Your 50s (Rewind) (EP.130)
12/13/2023
Investing in Your 50s (Rewind) (EP.130)
This is the fourth episode of the Investing By Age series. The episode originally aired in July of 2022 in a six-part series. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for your finances. Your 50s are the time you have the highest earnings and ability to save, so it’s time to make the most of it. Listen now and learn: How to take advantage of your peak earning years Ways to eliminate unnecessary investment risks Why you may need to update your retirement goals Two important reasons to rethink your asset allocation in your 50’s To listen to the entire 6-part series this episode aired with, visit and listen to: You’ll also find all the show notes, free resources, and links mentioned in this episode.
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Investing in Your 40s (Rewind) (EP.129)
12/06/2023
Investing in Your 40s (Rewind) (EP.129)
This is the third episode of the Investing By Age series. The episode originally aired in July of 2022 in a six-part series. Although this is a replay, the content shared is just as relevant today and important to consider for your finances. As you move into your peak earning years, it’s all about making smart decisions right now. Listen now and learn: How to optimize your retirement savings Ideas for strategically investing for education costs 5 estate planning documents you need to get To listen to the entire 6-part series this episode aired with, visit and listen to: You’ll also find all the show notes, free resources, and links mentioned in this episode.
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