

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

Apr 16, 2024 • 1h 16min
Dissecting Income Inequality with Senator Phil Grahamm
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professot Kotlikoff invites guest Phil Gramm, a seasoned figure in the world of economic policy and political influence. Phil Gramm's storied career is defined by his tenure as a U.S. Senator from Texas, chairmanship of the Senate Banking Committee, and his profound insights on taxation and welfare policies—credentials that undeniably assert him as a voice of authority. With his notable academic background in economics and public service experience, Gramm brings a wealth of knowledge to today's pressing fiscal discussions.
Topics Discussed:
Marginal Taxation:
Measuring Inequality
The Impact of Transfer Payments
Perspectives on Economic Reforms
Time Stamps:
00:00 Background, career, Congress, and more.
08:01 Served in Senate, quit while ahead. Inflation.
11:50 Discussion on inequality, poverty and economic measurements.
17:22 Census underestimates income inequality, poverty rate low.
25:06 Wealth inequality argument refuted based on perspective.
28:40 Comparing wealth and spending among 40 year olds
35:10 Bottom 60% of earners have similar income.
40:15 Reform taxation with progressive consumption tax, benefits.
46:33 Poverty traps: Improve language, promote progress, incentives.
55:37 Ukraine-EU, NATO, Russia peace with mediation.
56:42 Need peace agreement with Russia; China's growth.
01:06:39 Election lost in white suburbs due to behavior.
01:10:28 Presidency is demanding; knowing when to quit.
For anyone interested in the complexities of economic policies and their implications on both domestic and global scales, this conversation between two leading economic thinkers will offer invaluable perspectives. You'll leave the episode with a deeper appreciation for the interplay of taxation, welfare, and work incentives, and a clearer sense of the challenges and potential pathways to achieving economic equity.
____________________________________________________
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 11, 2024 • 60min
Legacy Admissions and Upward Mobility: Insights with John 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 John Friedman, a towering figure in the world of economics. As a distinguished economist at Brown University, co-director of Opportunity Insights, and an influential researcher frequently cited for his insights on inequality and education policy, John's pedigree is unmatched when it comes to discussing the barriers faced by disadvantaged youths. A celebrated thought leader, Friedman has shone a light on the pressing issues within America's education system, making him the perfect authority to delve into the complicated web of admissions policies and economic mobility.
Topics Covered:
The unsettling realities of legacy admissions at elite schools and their preferential treatment toward students from high-income families
Innovative educational methods
The lingering impacts of the pandemic on education
A nuanced discourse on the thorny issue of race and education
You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the education landscape, the factors driving inequality, and the potential solutions that could promote upward mobility.
Timestamps:
05:53 Elite universities may limit leadership potential diversity.
07:43 Income disparities impact access to educational institutions.
11:15 Legacy boost benefits high-income families more.
16:31 Universities should fight inequality, improve admissions policies.
20:27 Legacy preferences perpetuate socioeconomic inequality in universities.
23:51 Supreme Court justices from Ivy League schools.
26:10 Attending elite schools leads to major benefits.
28:52 Focusing on top earners and school selection.
33:37 Individual circumstances, not just demographic checkboxes matter.
37:25 Schools balance academics and student diversity goals.
40:43 Race-based opportunity disparities faced by children.
43:00 Dictator for a year can change education.
46:50 Invest in recurring education improvements to address disparities.
52:07 Importance of technology and in-person schooling.
54:01 Schools adapted to support student needs through pandemic.
____________________________________________________
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 5, 2024 • 52min
Kerry Pechter on Mastering Retirement Planning During Political Shifts
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 Kerry Pechter, a seasoned journalist and the pioneering founder and editor of Retirement Income Journal. Kerry's profound knowledge and keen insights into the global retirement industry have established him as a leading authority. His journalistic journey, which includes notable tenures at Vanguard and as an Annuity Market News senior editor, has uniquely positioned him to dissect and predict trends in retirement planning.
During this eye-opening discussion, Kerry lends his expertise on a variety of topics that are critical for anyone thinking about their financial future.
Topics:
The Impact of Elections on Retirement Planning
Personal Responsibility in Retirement Readiness
The Complex World of Annuities
The Ethical Obligations of Financial Advisors
Time Stamps:
00:00 Favorable experience attending small liberal arts school.
08:34 Leveraging opportunities for career success and retirement.
14:41 Lack of data on couples’ savings for retirement.
19:51 Various types of annuities and salespeople explained.
27:58 Contentious argument with dol threatens livelihood, forces change.
32:08 Client questions insurance agent's honesty and obligations.
34:59 Financial advisor selling opaque investment products, lacking transparency.
45:40 Nicholas Barr on retirement systems and challenges.
48:01 Propose new fully funded, Wall Street-free system.
53:18 Plan ahead, save, and understand finances.
The conversation provides invaluable counsel for listeners seeking to navigate the often complex realm of retirement planning. Pechter's global perspective and Kotlikoff's economic expertise combine to offer a masterclass on the subject, making this an episode not to be missed.
____________________________________________________
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 2, 2024 • 60min
Is China an Economic Threat? Unpacking Trade Realities with Uri Dadush
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 the highly esteemed Uri Dadush, a luminary in the field of international economics. Uri Dadush's credentials are remarkable, having served as a senior fellow at the Policy Center for the New South and at the OCP Foundation, both in Morocco. His rich professional tapestry includes illustrious tenures at the World Bank, where he directed international trade, and at the Economist Intelligence Unit. He is also an insightful writer and an influential thinker with a myriad of articles and books on international economic topics to his credit.
Topics Covered:
The future dynamics of China's economy
China and Taiwan
Trade shifting sands and the global order
The evolution of international trade
Time Stamps:
00:00 Global trade and alliances.
08:18 US imposes tariffs, blames China for issues.
12:04 US trading system, internal tensions, WTO rules.
16:07 Tariffs between U.S. and China: political theater?
16:50 China's threat exaggerated, economy more stable.
23:34 International infrastructure investment efforts slowed due to constraints.
26:44 Africa's progress in economic growth and investment.
30:02 Europe population declining, Africa making progress slowly.
33:04 Global trade shifts causing geopolitical tensions and suspicions.
37:08 Potential for China-US conflict over Ukraine, Taiwan.
40:17 US recognizes Taiwan, sensitive issue, possibility.
43:33 China's economic future, global impact, and strategy.
46:54 President Xi supports voluntary agreement on Taiwan.
52:02 China rapidly expanding navy, developing hypersonic missiles.
54:13 Imagining crazy leader in Chinese hierarchy scenario.
The value in this discussion is immeasurable. You will gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted economic relationships that are shaping our global future. Dadush's insights provide a prism through which we can appreciate the various economic forecasts and policy options that could guide international strategies in the years ahead.
____________________________________________________
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/

Mar 28, 2024 • 1h
Harris Goldberg: The Intersection of Art and Economics in Film
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 the multifaceted Harris Goldberg, a seasoned figure in the film and television industry, whose credits extend from screenwriting and directing to teaching the next generation of creatives at esteemed institutions such as UCLA and McMaster University. You may recognize his work as producer for Deuce Bigelow, Happy Gilmore, Without a Paddle and many others. Harris's extensive career, boasting an impressive portfolio that includes a multi-picture deal with Disney and collaborations with notable names in comedy, positions him as an undeniable authority in content creation and entertainment economics.
Throughout the conversation, Harris shares invaluable insights that bridge the gap between economic theories and the arts.
Talking Points:
The Evolution of the Film Industry
Financial Realities and Creative Challenges
Personal Finance and Career Longevity
This is a rare opportunity to understand the complexities of an industry often shrouded in glamour, through the lens of economics. Whether you're an aspiring artist, a film enthusiast, or an economics student, this is a dialogue that illuminates the intricate dance between creativity and cost, passion and profit, dreams, and reality.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Exploring economics and success in film industry.
07:17 Starting a business requires passion and perseverance.
12:42 Movies made money through theaters, international sales, DVDs.
19:08 In the past, pitching ideas landed writing jobs.
25:48 Studios often struggle to predict success.
29:02 Navigating Hollywood's competitive talent pool for projects.
36:06 Most movies don't stand out, except few.
37:58 Unlikely start as writer, trip to LA.
44:29 Early years were spent pleasing others as writer.
50:12 Friend from Goldman called about tax issue.
55:55 We said, comedic deliverance, big movie idea.
01:00:33 Passion drives creativity
____________________________________________________
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/

Mar 26, 2024 • 1h 1min
Financial Empowerment with Kerry Hannon: A Guide for Career and Retirement 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 engages with the esteemed Kerry Hannon, a prominent voice in personal finance and career development. Kerry's authority emanates from her vast experience as a financial journalist, author, and commentator, having contributed to influential platforms like Yahoo Finance, The New York Times, Forbes, PBS, and ABC. She grew up in an environment steeped in business acumen and nurtured a passion for writing that propelled her through dynamic positions at Forbes magazine, Money magazine, US News and World Report, and USA Today. With a background that interweaves journalism with keen insights on workplace trends, Kerry provides invaluable perspectives to those navigating financial and career challenges in an ever-changing economy.
Topics Discussed:
Crafting Personal Financial Security
Combatting Ageism in the Workplace
Gender Disparity and Workplace Diversity
Adapting to Modern Workplace Dynamics
Timestamps:
00:00 Grew up in management consulting, never joined.
09:32 Networking led to writing and business success.
14:40 Discovering inner brain, economics researcher with Harvard.
21:04 Getting a raise requires seeking outside offers
24:22 Terry Savage became a broker despite obstacles.
31:13 Women often take non-promotable assignments due to societal expectations.
34:05 Remote work opens global job opportunities, fights ageism.
42:54 Wall Street encourages early Social Security to profit.
47:22 Maxify.com software plans retirement and Social Security.
53:27 Older workers in demand due to shortages.
57:30 Overcoming ageism in academia through prolific publishing.
Listeners of this episode will gain insight into creating a sustainable and rewarding career path while navigating the complexities of personal finance. Kerry Hannon's expertise offers a blueprint for resilience, self-worth, and adaptability in an evolving market, making this episode an essential listen for anyone looking to flourish professionally and financially.
_____________________________________________________
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/

Mar 21, 2024 • 58min
Modeling Our Climate Future: Economic Insights with Professor Kotlikoff
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff goes deep on climate economics, and Its founder, Economic Nobel Price winner William Nordhaus. A small army of climate economists have followed in Nordhaus' footsteps in modeling climate change and how to fix it. In the process, they've inadvertently started a climate war, pitting the young against the old and climate-endangered countries against carbon-producing countries
Professor Kotlikoff sounds the alarm that climate change is not down the road or around the corner. It's here. The evidence, for those who respect evidence, is unmistakable. The only question is how to stop it. He lists what he believes are requirements to rethink climate economics and solve this existential threat once and for all.
Topics Covered:
The Economy and the Environment
Policy-making for a Sustainable Future
The Role of Technology in Climate Mitigation
Fostering International Cooperation
Time Stamps:
00:00 Economist criticizes modeling's impact on climate change.
05:58 Greta suggests solutions for climate change problem.
14:58 Little evidence of current generations caring about future.
19:12 Wrong economic model leads to climate change.
24:27 Italian economist's genius solution to externalities.
33:00 Economists simplify simulation for representative household model.
34:32 Climate change skepticism addressed by proposing solutions.
41:39 Study shows 4.3% gain in consumption.
47:50 Model predicts global emissions, economic decline in India.
55:25 Urgent need for global climate compensation calculations.
59:48 Paper discusses carbon risk and uncertainty implications.
01:02:09 Carbon risk taxation could justify $100+ tax.
You will come away from this episode armed with a deeper understanding of the interplay between economics and the environment and the critical need for proactive policy-making that prioritizes sustainable growth. Professor Kotlikoff's unique perspectives will enlighten anyone interested in the future of our planet and the economic structures that support it.
_____________________________________________________
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/

Mar 19, 2024 • 53min
Rethinking Social Security with John Mauldin: A Vision for Reform
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 prominent financial analyst and thought leader John Mauldin. With a legacy rooted in economic discourse and financial education, John has carved out a reputation for his deep dives into complex fiscal matters. As a New York Times bestselling author who has penned six influential books, John's insights stem from a combination of rigorous analysis and a natural knack for clear, engaging storytelling. A household name among a million-strong newsletter audience, he also stands as a co-founder of Mauldin Economics, organizing an annual strategic investment conference featuring esteemed economists and analysts.
Topics Covered:
1. The Future of Social Security and Medicare
2.The Current Banking Climate
3.Energy Policy and Environmental Solutions
4.Investment Strategies in a Stagnant Market
Time Stamps:
05:35 Transition from print to internet, successful business.
09:50 Debate over renewable energy and climate concerns.
12:03 Gradual shift to carbon tax benefits all.
16:04 Texans have something unique to offer.
19:39 Mismatched duration creates problems for financial institutions.
20:46 Early rate hikes would have prevented inflation.
24:20 Slow phase-out of leverage causing tightened lending.
29:06 Housing costs not showing in CPI data.
30:46 Banking industry contracting, small banks at risk.
34:51 Banks, debt crisis, Social Security, elderly concerns.
38:12 By 2030, US national debt to reach $50T. Bond market to demand more discipline, higher rates.
40:29 Economists say consumption taxes are more progressive.
46:19 Modernize Social Security, healthcare reform, fiscal system.
49:17 Predicts a softening in the GDP market.
52:44 Rocket landing and reusing, battery innovation. Amazing!
You will find in this dialogue a potent blend of wisdom and foresight. Mauldin's expertise not only shines through in his economic predictions but also in his pragmatic approach to present financial realities. This discussion will shape your understanding of the future - both imminent and distant.
_____________________________________________________
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/

Mar 14, 2024 • 43min
Trump and the Art of the Deal: David Cay Johnston's In-Depth Analysis
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 David Cay Johnston back on Economics Matters. David is an investigative journalist, author, and specialist in economics and tax issues. David's authority on these subjects is unquestioned, with a career boasting a Pulitzer Prize for Beat Reporting and a long history of examining economic complexities. His work deeply scrutinizes fiscal policies and has brought to light many hidden layers of the American tax system.
Johnston's academic presence at Syracuse University as a visiting lecturer melds practical journalism with academic insights, ensuring the conversation is both grounded and intellectually robust. His expertise in Donald Trump's finances brings an unparalleled depth of understanding to issues surrounding Trump’s legal entanglements and political maneuverings.
Topics Covered:
Trump's Financial Empire
Legal Battles and Political Influence
Election Integrity and Foreign Interference
The Role of Power and Authoritarianism
This conversation promises to be invaluable for anyone interested in the intersection of finance, law, and politics. It illuminates complex issues with the sharp analysis only a seasoned journalist like David Cay Johnston can provide.
Time Stamps:
03:58 Man runs for president, opposes Trump, predicts dictatorship.
07:10 Donald Trump facing legal challenges in court.
12:10 Donald Trump disclosed crucial national security secrets.
15:50 Unlimited resources to fuel criminal activities, and Kremlin interference revealed.
17:57 Claims of wrongdoing but no concrete evidence.
21:42 Supreme Court unlikely to take up case.
25:05 Florida judge violates oath, New York trial expected.
27:45 Trump's CFO likely avoiding jail time.
30:53 State cases matter due to pardon limitations.
35:13 Trump's bail status and First Amendment rights.
37:02 Putin aims to reassemble old Soviet Union.
41:04 Trump's legal issues, Russia.
____________________________________________________
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/

Mar 12, 2024 • 54min
Theo Kocken's Insights on Demographic Changes and Economic Stability
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff joins forces with Theo Kocken, a distinguished professor of risk management at VU University Amsterdam and the visionary founder of Cardano, a trailblazing pension, investment, and risk management firm. Theo's compelling background as a former head of risk management at ING and his strategic expertise in averting financial crises for major pension funds, like KLM's, mark him as an authoritative voice in the field of economic risk management and sustainable development finance.
Topics Covered:
The Financial Risks and Rewards of An Aging Global Population
Risk Management as a Pillar for Economic Stability
The Intersection of Climate Change and Global Finance
Investment as a Tool for Development and Diplomacy
The value of this discussion is immense, offering a perspective that bridges the gap between academic theory and practical execution in risk management, development finance, and global economic trends. It reveals how sound fiscal precautions and targeted investments could potentially avert future financial and environmental crises, promoting sustainable growth and cooperation across borders.
_____________________________________________________
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/