Mary Childs

Mary Childs, a seasoned financial journalist and co-host of NPR's Planet Money, breaks down the intimidating world of investing. She discusses the importance of understanding retirement plans like 401(k)s and IRAs, emphasizing the benefits of employer matching and tax strategies. Childs explains how index funds often outperform actively managed funds and the role of diversification, including the classic 60/40 stocks-to-bonds ratio. She also touches on ethical investing and how to manage short-term goals with brokerage accounts, making finance accessible and engaging.

Mary Childs, a Planet Money reporter, sheds light on the controversial tolls of the Panama Canal amidst U.S.-Panama tensions. She discusses how tolls are structured based on ship size and type, not nationality, and the implications of President Trump's comments. The conversation dives into the effects of recent toll hikes and a new proposal for an auction system aimed at enhancing fairness. Childs also highlights the canal's strategic importance for U.S. shipping and the challenges posed by low water levels and infrastructure plans for the future.

Mary Childs, co-host of Planet Money and author of 'The Bond King', dives into the intricate issues surrounding the national debt. She discusses why current concerns about fiscal deficits demand attention, contrasting them with historical precedents. The conversation reveals the political fallout from Trump's firing of the Bureau of Labor Statistics head, highlighting the trust crisis in economic data. Finally, they explore Tesla's hefty incentive package for Elon Musk and its implications for corporate governance.

Mary Childs, author of "The Bond King" and an NPR Planet Money reporter, dives deep into the life of Bill Gross, the legendary "Bond King" and PIMCO founder. She discusses his transformative impact on the bond market and the internal conflicts that led to his dramatic exit. The conversation also touches on the emotional paradoxes faced by top investors, revealing how success can be both a blessing and a curse. Childs shares insights into the toxic financial culture that can shape a career, providing a captivating look at ambition and downfall.

Mary Childs, author of "The Bond King" and co-host of NPR's Planet Money, delves into the life of Bill Gross, the pioneer of bond trading and founder of PIMCO. She highlights Ed Thorpe's early influence on Gross and how they navigated the financial crisis while forging a unique bond with the government. The conversation also covers the dramatic events leading to Gross's decline at PIMCO, including a pivotal miscalculation and the personal challenges he faced, painting a vivid picture of the complexities behind 'The Bond King'.