
Animal Spirits Podcast
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/
Latest episodes

8 snips
Nov 25, 2024 • 32min
Talk Your Book: Animal Spirits Live
Alex Morris, Chief Investment Officer of F/m Investments, brings his expertise to the discussion, diving into intriguing financial trends. He explores why investors are clustered on the short end of the curve and examines the surprising rise in rates after a Fed cut. Morris also sheds light on the tight credit spreads and shares his thoughts on avoiding hedge fund manager advice. The conversation touches on the dynamics of money markets, the shift to private credit, and the government's approach to managing rising debt. A captivating blend of investment insights!

25 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 1h 11min
Everybody in the Pool (EP.387)
Join an engaging discussion about the remarkable journey of a podcast over seven years. The hosts dive into the surprising resilience of US equities and the impact of massive ETF flows. They ponder if crypto winters are behind us and unveil insights on today's housing market. Personal anecdotes about becoming grandparents add a light touch, while reflections on cultural shifts and the balance of personal finance stir deeper thoughts. Humor blends with serious analysis, making this a lively take on life and finance!

6 snips
Nov 18, 2024 • 29min
Talk Your Book: Investors Love Cash Flow
In this discussion, Barry Martin, Portfolio Manager of the Shelton Equity Income Fund and expert in option income strategies, shares insights on the art of selling call options for income generation. He breaks down what it means to have shares called away and what makes a stock a good candidate for this strategy. The conversation touches on the appeal of option income funds for retirees, how interest rates influence call options, and the key to achieving consistent cash flow through strategic stock selection.

12 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 53min
The Bitcoiners Won (EP.386)
The discussion dives into why recent political shifts favor certain leaders, revealing how miscommunication around economic issues has impacted public perception. They also dissect the impressive 30% gains in the stock market and the rising influence of ETFs in investment strategies. Bitcoin makes headlines as it evolves from skepticism to significant investment interest. Additionally, the hosts chat about tiny houses, the Mighty Ducks nostalgia, and humorous personal anecdotes, all while addressing current trends in the housing market and media consumption.

12 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 40min
Talk Your Book: Infrastructure Investing
Mark Gatto, Co-Founder and CEO of CION Investments, dives into the world of infrastructure investing alongside Jon Levin, CEO of GCM Grosvenor. They discuss the importance of infrastructure as a key component of a diversified portfolio and tackle the challenges of assessing private investments. The duo also highlights the impact of interest rates and political changes on investment strategies, emphasizing the need for transparency and alignment between individual and institutional investors. Their insights offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to navigate this complex asset class.

16 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 1h 13min
A Once in a Lifetime Investment Opportunity (EP.385)
Join the entertaining discussion on Warren Buffett's significant cash reserves and the current stock market dynamics. They dive into the peculiarities of market performance and rising interest rates, while also chuckling over the absurdities of social media complaints. Explore Bitcoin's leading status in crypto, the shifts in homebuying trends, and KKR's new ventures in retirement funds. Plus, hear humorous anecdotes from everyday life, including memorable service industry stories and family movie nights.

12 snips
Nov 4, 2024 • 28min
Talk Your Book: Longevity Income
Nate Conrad, Head of LifeX at Stone Ridge Asset Management, specializes in longevity income ETFs and retirement planning. He delves into how longevity income ETFs can reshape retirement strategies, emphasizing the importance of aligning spending with investment products. Discussions include innovative bond solutions, tackling the psychological challenges retirees face, and managing ETF funds for stable income. Conrad also highlights the need for flexibility in financial planning, ensuring security as life expectancies increase.

16 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 1h 3min
The Cost of the American Dream (EP.384)
The conversation dives into the shifting dynamics of the financial market and the recent spike in interest rates. They discuss the challenges of living paycheck-to-paycheck, even on a six-figure income. The pain of inflation in the 2020s is explored, alongside the difficulties in the housing market. Nostalgia meets humor with reflections on 80s horror films and parenting insights. They critique the reliability of election data and share thoughts on education choices, making for a lively mix of economic advice and personal stories.

8 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 33min
Talk Your Book: The Next Big Short
Jared Dillian, Founder of Jared Dillian Money, shares his critical views on private equity, arguing that it's currently in a sentiment bubble. He emphasizes the need to understand demand dynamics and the risks tied to lower-tier funds, especially during economic downturns. The discussion also touches on the impact of recent HVAC private equity deals and the broader implications of upcoming elections on market volatility. Dillian's insights highlight the complexities and challenges of navigating private equity investments today.

20 snips
Oct 24, 2024 • 35min
Talk Your Book: Marketing is Everything with Seth Godin
Seth Godin, a leading author and marketing guru, dives into compelling topics surrounding his latest book, *This is Strategy*. He emphasizes that everyone is in sales, sharing insights on how to produce impactful content and define an audience beyond mere demographics. The conversation touches on marketing strategies, especially for introverts, and the dynamic between writing and public speaking. Godin also explores the balance between AI and creativity, advocating for self-reflection in the writing process to enhance engagement and connection.