

Economics Matters with Laurence Kotlikoff
Economics Matters
Economics Matters is a podcast hosted by Professor Laurence Kotlikoff, one of the most influential economists in the world, a Global Economics Advisor, NY Times Best Selling Author, President of Economic Security Planning, Inc., and Director of the Fiscal Analysis Center. In each episode, Professor Kotlikoff talks to experts about the power of economics in our modern day society. From personal finance and fiscal policy, to social security and income inequality, Economics Matters delves into much of the economic challenges of modern society.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 12, 2024 • 55min
Rescuing Your Retirement with Larry
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff discusses how you can rescue your retirement with a live walk through of the Maxifi Planner, developed by Economic Security Planning, Inc. He shows how the average person can almost double their pre- and post-retirement living standard and do so with no risk. Every household is different. But this podcast will show you the money magic that economics-based planning software can deliver and give you ideas of how you can rescue your own retirement.
Topics Covered:
Impact of Financial Decisions on Retirement
A comprehensive walk through of the Maxifi Planner Software.
Optimizing Social Security Benefits
A Real-Life Case Study
Time Stamps:
00:00 Underutilized tax-saving programs lead to retirement shortfall.
03:40 Retirement account reliance, Social Security concerns, solutions.
08:41 Economic security planning challenges traditional financial advice.
12:37 Retirement age assumption: plan for age 100.
14:59 Maxifi planner protects against unexpected expenses, offers resources.
17:54 Case demonstrating need for retirement rescue plan.
23:38 Market drops in historical recessions, plan safely.
25:37 Plan for living to 100 with spending adjustments.
31:22 Household living standard analysis shows consistent spending.
36:35 Maximize retirement benefits, optimization of annuities.
38:05 Consider lifestyle changes to increase future income.
43:15 People are paying more taxes due to work.
47:14 Financial decisions in retirement: expenses, location, and planning.
48:39 Plan for discretionary spending, taxes, and saving.
52:36 Plan for financial security with customizable software.
Join us in this episode as Professor Kotlikoff demystifies retirement planning with actionable insights and advanced financial tools, ensuring you can take proactive steps towards securing your financial future.
____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Jun 7, 2024 • 1h 5min
Do People Act Like Human Beings? Insights from the Brilliant Career of Behavioral Economist, Ernst Fehr
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff talks with Ernst Fehr, Professor of Microeconomics and Experimental Economics at the University of Zurich, and a leading figure in the field of behavioral economics. Ernst's profound contributions to our understanding of human behavior and economic decision-making have made him a pillar in his discipline. His pioneering work has expanded the traditional framework of economics to include concerns for fairness, cooperation, and altruism, fundamentally transforming the landscape of economic research.
Topics Covered:
Behavioral Economics and Financial Planning Inertia
The Role of Fairness and Altruism in Economic Behavior
Determinants of Creativity and Success
Impact of Experimental Economics on Labor Markets
Time Stamps:
00:00 Ernst upbringing in Austria.
10:50 Self-interest is a driving force in behavior.
12:50 Efficiency wage model incentivizes employees to perform.
22:56 Typically, average offer is 40% accepted.
24:49 Different cultures exhibit varying economic behavior patterns.
33:13 New paper challenges theories on human pro-sociality.
37:01 Behavioral economics and personal finance challenges.
48:16 Exogenous shocker, facilitator key to inducing action.
56:09 Study finds three social preference types prevalent.
01:01:01 Exchange experience in Germany shaped openness. motivator for conscientiousness.
01:03:09 Emphasizing the importance of asking quality questions.
In this episode you will gain invaluable insights into Professor Fehr's examination of human behavior, which highlights the inertia and behavioral transaction costs that hinder financial actions. Furthermore, the discussion on fairness and altruism provides a nuanced understanding of how these motivations interplay with economic decisions, challenging the traditional focus on self-interest.
This episode also explores the significant impact of experimental economics on understanding market fairness and employer-employee dynamics. For anyone interested in the behavioral aspects of economics and personal finance, this conversation offers a wealth of practical insights and thought-provoking ideas.
____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Jun 4, 2024 • 1h 31min
Inflation, Interest Rates, Fed Policy, and the Evolution of Economics Science: Insights from Harvard's Fabulous Economist, Benjamin Friedman
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff sits down with Benjamin Friedman, a distinguished professor of economics at Harvard University and a prolific author whose works have significantly shaped economic thought. Renowned for his insightful analysis intertwining economics, history, and policy, Ben brings a depth of understanding that is both profound and broadly influential. His notable books, such as "The Moral Consequences of Economic Growth" and "Religion and the Rise of Capitalism," have garnered widespread acclaim for their insightful perspectives on economic philosophy and policy.
Topics Covered:
Economic Growth and Social Consequences
Historical Economic Thought and Religion
U.S. Fiscal Policy Through the Decades
Inflation, Monetary Policy, and the Federal Reserve
Timestamps:
08:54 Background, growth, interest in economics, monetary policy.
15:35 Interest in financial markets and public policy.
20:39 Higher inflation leads to shooting interest rates.
26:24 High economy demand, post-war inflation inevitable.
29:27 Inflation blamed on monetary policy, oil prices.
35:14 Economy and money are not neutral now.
38:36 Praise for Volcker’s handling of tough times.
46:15 Interest rates influence borrowing and spending uncertainty.
52:59 Federal Reserve changed system to pay interest.
57:07 Government fiscal gap unsustainable, may require tax hikes.
01:00:53 Unsustainable government policy leads to inflation concerns.
01:07:45 Off-the-books debt dwarfs official debt.
01:11:28 Unfunded fiscal gap and burden on future generations.
01:19:37 Economics is intertwined with religion throughout history.
01:25:35 Ben recommends 14 books for deep education.
This episode offers listeners a comprehensive education in economics, unraveling how historical events, policy decisions, and economic philosophies are intricately connected. Ben's authoritative voice and nuanced analysis provide valuable insights for anyone interested in understanding the broader implications of economic growth and policy on society.
____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

May 31, 2024 • 1h 8min
Navigating Investment Strategies in a Volatile World with Fred Lane
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Laurence Kotlikoff sits down with Fred Lane, a distinguished voice in the world of investment and economic analysis. Fred brings a wealth of experience in corporate finance and management, making him a highly credible authority in his field. As a registered investment advisor specializing in high-net-worth individuals, Fred’s strategic insights into market trends are respected across the industry.
**Topics Covered:**
Russia-Ukraine Conflict and Its Resolution
Economic Policies and Their Real-World Impacts
Investment Strategies and Economic Outlook
The Role of AI in Economics
Timestamps:
00:00 Equity markets boom, Reagan's tax cuts, wealth building.
08:37 Discussing economy, politics, and global conflicts with Fred.
14:54 Software demo impresses, skepticism about AI potential.
18:57 AI overconfidence in economic and personal finance.
24:35 Retired man values son's financial foresight.
30:49 Trump and Biden's tariff policies and impact.
35:20 Concerns about AI job loss and wage.
42:34 Success of whites, barriers for minorities in society.
48:11 Misleading information about losing Social Security benefits.
49:43 Visited Washington with familiar entrepreneurial CEO group.
58:36 Vague comments about political correctness and vulnerability.
01:02:38 Promoting natural gas over coal, pushing uranium.
**Why You Should Listen:**
This episode offers a rich tapestry of economic insights intertwined with pressing geopolitical concerns. Whether you're an investor seeking savvy strategies, a policy enthusiast exploring the nuances of government programs, or simply curious about the future impact of AI, Fred Lane’s perspectives provide substantial value. His balanced approach to complex issues ensures listeners leave with a deeper understanding of the multifaceted economic and geopolitical landscape.
_____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

May 24, 2024 • 1h 2min
Financial Wisdom for Retirees: Securing Living Standards with TIPS and Diversification
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff sits down with Nancy Lloyd, a respected personal finance journalist and author, for a riveting discussion on the intricacies of consumer finance. With a strong background in economics, technology, and journalism, Nancy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Having worked at the Federal Reserve Board, written for numerous publications, and authored bestselling books on personal finance, she is a voice of authority in the financial arena.
Topics Covered:
Risks of Reverse Mortgages and Ponzi Schemes
Credit Card Debt and Student Loans
Importance of Financial Literacy
Time Management and Technology Distraction
Time Stamps:
00:00 Debt, interest rates, credit card disputes, flexibility.
06:49 Impulse buying creates a sense of urgency.
11:18 Be cautious when transferring credit card balances.
21:25 Managing money, credit card issues and alternatives.
26:38 College debt avoidance and student loan concerns.
32:09 Employer funded education with logistical support provided.
33:15 Community college credits don't always transfer well.
40:43 Caution against aerospace, parental support, career clarity.
48:49 Arrived early, parenting decisions led to problems.
50:21 Consider long-term implications of financial decisions.
55:25 Madoff victims face clawbacks, lack compensation protection.
01:03:03 Options for stock market protection get pricier.
This episode is invaluable for listeners looking to safeguard their financial future, offering practical advice on managing debt, understanding financial products, and making informed life choices. Professor Kotlikoff and Nancy emphasize the need for vigilance, financial education, and proactive management to navigate the often-complex world of personal finance successfully.
________________________________________________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

May 16, 2024 • 52min
Inside the Innovation of Mask Zero with Entrepreneur Adam Pener
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff talks with Adam Pener, a serial entrepreneur and visionary in medical device innovation. Adam's work spans multiple industries, including advanced security and emission reduction technologies. His latest groundbreaking project, Mask Zero, is set to revolutionize pandemic preparedness with the development of a cutting-edge, FDA-compliant mask that integrates UV light technology to neutralize pathogens. With patents already secured and significant advancements in both technology and regulatory approval, Adam's insights provide a rare glimpse into the high-stakes world of medical device innovation.
Topics Covered:
Navigating the FDA Approval Process
Strategic Hiring and Expertise Utilization
Market Potential and Execution
Future Plans and Technological Enhancements
Time Stamps:
00:00 Larry Kotlikoff and Adam Penner discuss entrepreneurship.
05:46 Serial entrepreneur focuses on revolutionary green technology.
07:33 Working with government consulting, not officially within government.
12:13 UVC technology adapted for wearable PPE device.
15:50 Lightweight, comfortable seal for extended wear.
16:48 UVC lights kill virus, create air purification.
20:55 UVC testing successful, company progressing in 2023.
25:21 Navigating FDA process without long-term connections.
26:35 Finding confidence and success in anxious adventure.
31:14 $30,000 decision led to FDA recognition.
33:01 High praise for Tasha's leadership and trust.
39:02 Series A funding plan for technology company.
41:14 Plan to produce and market medical technology.
45:44 Roger predicts easier and cheaper viral attack.
46:53 Lessons in entrepreneurship and making connections matter.
In this episode, you will gain valuable insights into the intricate process of bringing an innovative medical device to market, the importance of strategic expertise in overcoming regulatory hurdles, and the vision required to execute and capitalize on market opportunities. Adam Penner's journey underscores the transformative potential of focused innovation backed by determined execution.
____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

May 9, 2024 • 1h 23min
Glenn Loury Discusses his Sensational and Shockingly Frank Autobiography -- Late Admissions: Confessions of a Black Intellectual
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Laurence Kotlikoff welcomes Glenn Loury, a distinguished economist and public intellectual renowned for his insightful analyses on racial inequality, affirmative action, and social policy. Hailing from a humble background on the south side of Chicago, Loury made his mark in academia with his groundbreaking works and frank discussions on contentious issues. He became the first black tenured professor of economics at Harvard at the age of 33, authoring several influential papers and books that debate and dissect the societal underpinnings of race and economic disparities.
Topics Covered:
Inequality and Social Dynamics
Affirmative Action and Its Consequences
Personal Journey and Intellectual Evolution
Reassessing Racial Policies
Time Stamps:
00:00 Economist's memoir reflects on evolving beliefs.
09:49 Thick autobiography emphasizes telling the full truth.
13:44 Self-disclosure paradoxically enhances my credibility as narrator.
20:33 Mentor advised against eating with the economists.
23:48 Exciting era of theoretical bargaining paper discoveries.
28:28 Importance of self-doubt and academic anxiety.
32:24 Falsely accused assault leads to reputation damage.
37:29 Impressive academic achievements and potential Nobel Prize.
46:54 Discrimination affects worker performance and hiring standards.
50:33 Transformation from conservative to liberal, influential experiences.
55:36 Systemic issues in communities; civil rights concern.
01:00:29 Discovered neoconservatism, shifted from liberals to conservatives.
01:08:19 Stimulated by growing incarceration, advocate for racial equality.
01:14:02 Disagreement with D'Souza's work, critique of Bell Curve.
01:17:49 Lowry's views evolve, offering hope and connection.
This episode not only explores pivotal economic theories and social policies but also humanizes the often abstract debates through Loury’s personal and professional experiences. You will gain a deeper understanding of the economic mechanisms underlying societal inequalities and the real-world implications of policies intended to mitigate these disparities.
____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

May 7, 2024 • 1h 10min
Retirement Readiness: Mary Beth Franklin on Social Security Benefits & Planning
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff invites Mary Beth Franklin, a seasoned personal finance journalist, and a certified financial planner, recognized for her profound insights into Social Security, tax legislation, and retirement planning. With over four decades of experience, Mary Beth brings a wealth of knowledge from her work with leading publications such as United Press International and Investment News. Her expertise makes her a trusted authority in navigating the complexities of retirement and Social Security strategies.
Topics Covered:
Maximizing Social Security Benefits
Challenges of the Modern Retirement System
The Sustainability of Social Security
Timestamps:
06:56 Mary Beth transitioned from government to journalism, specialized in finance.
12:50 Period of typing stories, changing jobs wisely.
20:12 Many people don't participate in retirement planning.
25:38 IRA vs 401K, pensions impact retirement satisfaction.
28:06 IBM led shift from defined to contribution plans.
34:50 Changes in 1983 led to current income imbalance.
40:33 Reforming retirement age and Social Security system.
43:58 Social Security reserves depleted by 2034. Political crisis.
48:38 Fewer babies, changing workforce demand political action.
54:11 Work in retirement is financially beneficial option.
01:03:03 Delay Social Security, maximize benefits for couples.
This episode will give you a deeper understanding of how to secure your financial future, learn strategic approaches to retirement planning, and discover the critical adjustments needed within national policies to support lasting social security benefits.
____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

May 3, 2024 • 1h 4min
Social Security on the Brink: Debating Solutions with Arun Muralidhar and Kathleen Townsend
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff discusses pivotal aspects of social security and retirement planning with acclaimed expert Arun Muralidhar and former Maryland lieutenant governor Kathleen Townsend. Bringing an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and first-hand experience, Arun Muralidhar has an impressive background as a prominent figure in pension fund management, having steered the World Bank’s pension fund in the mid-90s. As a vocal advocate for retirement reform, Muralidhar brings critical insights drawn from his extensive work in global pension solutions. Kathleen Townsend, Maryland’s first female lieutenant governor and a long-standing advocate for retirement reform, shares her passionate views on policy changes necessary to support social security systems effectively.
Topics Covered:
Investment Approaches for Social Security
Taxation and Social Security
Personal Security Accounts
Global Pension Reforms and Innovations
Time Stamps:
00:00 Baby boomers face retirement financing and longevity.
05:55 Retirement blamed on individuals, not the system.
09:46 Managed World Bank's pension, advocated for reform.
13:27 Critique of Social Security and fiscal policy.
15:47 Discovering Social Security tax cap on income.
19:21 Post-war redistribution favors current generations, prompting inequality.
21:15 Address loopholes, promote incentives, coordinate fiscal programs.
26:48 Myra, retirement, bonds, Franco, steady consumption, continuity.
28:03 Brazil government issues bond in dollar terms. App calculates bonds needed for retirement.
33:46 Proposing long-term bonds for government's financial benefits.
36:44 Concerns about money going into infrastructure misuse.
39:44 Founded center to promote state-run retirement plans.
43:46 Promoting selfies for state-level treasuries and infrastructure.
46:07 Social Security's solvency viewed as major concern.
50:06 Issue with funding, twice as big problem.
53:54 Address poverty with major reforms and equity.
55:49 Global investment collectively secured for retirement pensions.
This discussion is not just an economic debate; it's about real-world impacts on everyday lives, aimed at providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of potential reforms and their implications. Understanding these could shape your financial future and societal stance on aging and retirement.
____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Apr 26, 2024 • 59min
Serving Up Success: Economic Strategies for Restaurateurs with Sophie Cranin
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff welcomes Sophie Cranin to discuss the bustling dynamics of the restaurant business. Sophie, with a robust background that spans public health, linguistics, and retail management, shifted gears to immerse herself fully in the restaurant industry, working with some of the leading figures like Garrett Harker. Her diverse experiences and the insight gained from managing various aspects of the restaurant scene make her a voice of authority in this field.
Topics Covered:
Economics of Restaurant Management
Challenges in Modern Dining
Customer Experience and Retention
Time Stamps:
00:00 Barbara has diverse restaurants, works with eastern Standard.
05:05 Struggling to find a career path.
12:39 Kenmore Square evolving into Fenway center; development and potential.
16:00 Passion for human resources leads to opportunity.
17:12 Seize opportunities, exceed expectations, create new paths.
22:37 Social spaces are crucial for community after COVID.
25:54 Financing depends on project scope and size.
30:09 Balancing costs and profits in restaurant industry.
33:48 Adjustments and feedback are crucial for success.
37:11 Tourists often support bad restaurants, consumer choice matters.
39:16 Restaurants use friends and family for feedback.
41:59 Restaurants need consistency in executing creative dishes.
44:31 Add salt gradually during cooking, not all at once.
49:05 Visual presentation enhances perceived value in dining.
53:21 Food delivery services have pros and cons.
54:37 Versatile individual excels in multiple fields.
This conversation will equip you with a deeper understanding of what it takes to thrive in the competitive restaurant industry and the nuanced economic decisions behind seemingly simple dining experiences. Whether you are a budding restaurateur, a seasoned foodie, or just curious about the economics of eating out, this episode delivers valuable insights into the art and science of hospitality.
____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/


