

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

Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 4min
State of the American Investor (EP. 427)
Explore the implications of Fed rate cuts on the stock market and whether we’re witnessing 1996 or 1999 all over again. Delve into the need for a recession to revive value stocks and the fascinating evolution of individual investing from the 90s to now. Learn about consumer behavior trends with 'buying the dip' and the skepticism surrounding cryptocurrencies. The hosts also share their reflections on gambling luck, personal growth through audiobooks, and the intricacies of current market dynamics.

38 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 27min
Talk Your Book: Creating Monthly Income From Your Portfolio
John Burrello, Senior Portfolio Manager at Invesco, shares insights on innovative income strategies using options to generate monthly income. He discusses the advantages of their Income Advantage ETF Suite and contrasts it with traditional dividend approaches. The conversation delves into the psychological aspects of investing, emphasizing the dangers of high-yield misconceptions. Burrello also highlights the importance of balancing income and growth within investment portfolios and offers guidance on adapting strategies for varying market conditions.

81 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 1min
Buy the Porsche (EP. 426)
The hosts dive into the current stock market's monotony, exploring how AI is influencing valuations. They question if small caps are truly dead and analyze the contrasting performances of fast food versus sit-down restaurants. The conversation shifts to the significant impact of tariffs and the K-shaped recovery, along with the challenges facing entry-level workers. Nostalgia hits as they reminisce about iconic teen movies while weaving in reflections on mentorship and the shifting landscape of streaming services. It's a wild ride through finance, culture, and personal anecdotes!

21 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 34min
Talk Your Book: How to Invest in Futures
Craig Bewick, Head of Retail Education at the CME Group, shares insights on the rise of retail investors in futures trading. He discusses the mechanics of futures contracts and the flexibility they offer compared to options. The conversation also touches on the importance of hedging strategies to navigate market volatility, the burgeoning field of crypto futures, and debunks misconceptions surrounding leveraged ETFs. Bewick encourages listeners to take advantage of educational resources to deepen their understanding of this dynamic trading landscape.

186 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 4min
Measuring the Wealth Effect (EP. 425)
Dive into nostalgia as the hosts reminisce about the 90s music scene while exploring the rising influence of the stock market on household wealth. They discuss the K-shaped economy and the unique financial strategies of younger investors who prioritize stocks over home buying. Get insights on the changing housing market, cryptocurrency trends, and the impact of shifting interest rates. Personal anecdotes mix with market analysis, connecting family bonds to investment strategies. A light-hearted take on fishing and recent films adds a fun twist!

21 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 38min
Talk Your Book: The People's Index
In this conversation, Matt Bartolini, Managing Director at State Street Investment Management, shares his insights on the Dow Jones Industrial Average, unveiling its historical significance and unique price-weighted structure. He contrasts the Dow with the S&P 500 and discusses how market perceptions shape investment strategies today. The dialogue also addresses adapting investment approaches in uncertain markets, particularly with rising allocations to non-U.S. equities and fixed income ETFs, highlighting the ever-evolving landscape of financial markets.

53 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 5min
Wall Street Strikes Back (EP. 424)
The hosts dive into how AI has influenced the stock market, sparking an unexpected economic rebound. They explore the resurgence of retail investing, with more individuals participating than ever before. The conversation shifts to the real estate landscape, examining regional trends and personal buying experiences. Amidst debates on labor market data, they also reflect on Netflix’s quality decline and changing parenting styles. Personal anecdotes and lively discussions make for an engaging listen, revealing the intersection of finance and daily life.

Aug 4, 2025 • 32min
Talk Your Book: Finding Tax Alpha in Fixed Income
Alex Morris of F/m Investments joins the discussion, bringing his expertise on the new Compoundr ETF Series. They delve into tax-efficient bond investments, highlighting strategies that aim for capital appreciation while minimizing tax burdens. The conversation also covers the nuances of tax alpha in fixed income, emphasizing diversification and investment quality. Inflation expectations in the bond market are examined, along with evolving strategies that reflect changing investor attitudes towards fixed income diversification. A captivating look into modern investment techniques!

108 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 2min
This Is the Dumb Money (EP. 423)
The hosts dive into the intriguing intersection of AI trends and the stock market, drawing parallels to past market bubbles. They discuss the current housing market's surprising resilience amidst economic challenges and explore the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency investments. A peek into personal anecdotes reveals the complexities of private market investments and changing consumer behavior. They also mix in light-hearted movie musings, from nostalgia to unexpected popcorn deliveries, creating a captivating blend of finance and fun.

37 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 35min
Talk Your Book: How to Hold the Biggest Winners
Bill Mann, Chief Investment Strategist at Motley Fool Asset Management, joins to discuss the power of buy-and-hold investing. He shares insights on owning '10-bagger' stocks and the influence of the Motley Fool 100. The conversation delves into investor behavior, market dynamics, and the importance of a disciplined approach amidst volatility. Mann emphasizes understanding risk tolerance and the potential role of AI in polishing portfolio strategies. It’s a lively exploration of how to navigate the complexities of investing with confidence!