

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

32 snips
Mar 22, 2025 • 40min
Talk Your Book: How to be a Supercommunicator with Charles Duhigg
Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author known for exploring human behavior, joins the discussion to unpack his insights from "Supercommunicators." They challenge the myth that communication skills are innate, stressing that practice and understanding your audience are crucial. Duhigg delves into the nuances of persuasion, identifying both its constructive and destructive potentials. He also highlights techniques such as active listening and storytelling that can strengthen relationships in professional and personal settings.

30 snips
Mar 19, 2025 • 37min
Live From Miami (EP.404)
This lively discussion features humorous travel tales, including comical hotel quirks and an airport mishap. The hosts share insights on the market's recent volatility post-election and the changing sentiments among investors. They dive into the impending wealth transfer projected to impact women significantly and explore challenges in real estate. Expect entertaining debates on movie cities, topped off with lighthearted reflections on a birthday celebration gone awry. It's an engaging blend of finance and fun!

23 snips
Mar 17, 2025 • 34min
Talk Your Book: How Private Credit Works
Phil Baur, SVP and Portfolio Specialist at Calamos Investments and former pro baseball player, dives into the intriguing world of private credit. He breaks down how it differs from high yield lending, and the advantages it offers during economic fluctuations. The conversation highlights emerging opportunities in commercial real estate and the importance of risk assessment for financial advisors. Baur also touches on the structural aspects of private credit funds, emphasizing modern underwriting and diversification strategies.

9 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 1h 4min
The Tariff Tantrum (EP.403)
The hosts dive into a healthy correction in the stock market, comparing it to historical movements. They highlight the resurgence of bonds and growing recession fears while discussing the impact of a slowing labor market. Future worries about AI and millennials waiting for inheritances are explored, alongside the effects of COVID-19 on economic trends. A humorous reflection on nostalgic memories, from 90s minivans to market behaviors, keeps the conversation light while addressing the complexities of modern investing and personal experiences.

Mar 10, 2025 • 37min
Talk Your Book: A Better 60/40 Portfolio
JD Gardner, CIO and Founder of Aptus Capital Advisors, shares his insights into innovative investment strategies, focusing on options-based active ETFs. He discusses the shift towards riskier portfolios and the use of stock options for hedging. Misconceptions about option-based strategies are addressed, highlighting the importance of understanding risks. Gardner also introduces the 'D-Risk' ETF and two distinct strategies, DRSK and ACIO, that seek to balance risk with potential returns, reflecting on the need for investor education in today's market.

69 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 1h
Is a Recession Coming? (EP.402)
The discussion kicks off with signs hinting at a potential recession and how to brace for market shifts. A light-hearted courtside basketball game chat ensues, leading into insights about economic headwinds and stock market volatility. The hosts examine retirement savings disparities and highlight the crucial role of Social Security. They also analyze the cryptocurrency landscape, alongside a look at the resilient housing market amidst uncertainty. To top it off, personal anecdotes on movie trailers and humorous takes on life keep the conversation engaging.

11 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 35min
Talk Your Book: Custom Portfolio Protection
Explore the fascinating world of investment strategies as experts discuss the benefits of buffered ETFs versus structured notes. Discover how structured notes can serve as effective portfolio insurance amidst market uncertainties. Learn about a new tech platform that connects financial advisors with tailored products for client needs, enhancing both risk management and potential returns. Delve into the advantages of implementing structured notes in wealth management and the role of innovative platforms in modern investing.

141 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 52min
Time to Get Bearish? (EP.401)
The hosts dive into economic uncertainties, contemplating a potential slowdown and the implications of the labor market's shift. They discuss wealth inequality, highlighting how the top 10% influences consumer behavior. Seasonal spending trends reveal disparities across income levels, while Berkshire Hathaway's tax contributions spark debate. The U.S. housing market is projected to surge, driven by millennials despite current challenges. Their lighthearted banter about the Marvel Cinematic Universe offers a humorous counterpoint, blending financial talk with personal anecdotes.

Feb 24, 2025 • 37min
Talk Your Book: State of The Real Estate Market
Explore the current state of the real estate market and how it’s been affected by rising interest rates. Discover the surprising resurgence of A malls while traditional shopping centers struggle. Gain insights into the complexities of managing REITs and the potential benefits of active investment strategies. Delve into the risks associated with high leverage in real estate and compare public versus private market advantages. Identify promising growth sectors like data centers while navigating underperforming areas like office spaces.

60 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 57min
Life and Death (EP.400)
In this milestone discussion, the hosts reflect on their journey and the power of kindness. They share personal stories about navigating grief and the lessons learned from loss. The conversation shifts to the rise of passive investing, highlighting its mental benefits versus active trading stress. Nostalgia flows as they recall the golden age of television and dive into memories of iconic shows. With touches on financial strategies and market trends, it’s a heartfelt exploration of life’s complexities intertwined with a dash of humor.


