Icons and Ideas with Peter Mallouk

In this episode, Peter Mallouk sits down with Shawn Achor to explore what truly makes a happier, more meaningful life. They discuss why pursuing happiness isn’t selfish, how “happiness anxiety” holds many people back and why social connection is the strongest predictor of long-term well-being. They also touch on how money and success fit into a happy life. Through research, stories and practical habits, Shawn and Peter share ways to build more joy, gratitude and meaning in everyday life.(00:04) Introduction(00:20) From Divinity school to happiness research(06:07) How happiness anxiety robs us and others of joy(09:16) How extremes of optimism and pessimism lead to decision paralysis(10:34) Why social support and connection are key to happiness(13:27) How small happiness habits can reduce loneliness(16:03) How to practice gratitude and build social connections(22:39) Why practicing gratitude improves happiness(31:01) How lack of social connections increase depression(37:47) What we get wrong about happiness(42:55) Why comparison is the thief of joy(52:44) How small habits change systemsRESOURCESFollow Peter on his social media accounts: X | LinkedIn | Instagram | FacebookFollow Creative Planning’s social media accounts: X | LinkedIn | Instagram | FacebookBrowse through all our episodes here:Like the Icons and Ideas podcast? Check out Peter’s other podcasts!Signal or NoiseDown the Middle

Peter sits down with economist, author and Wharton School professor Jeremy Siegel for a candid conversation on the economic forces impacting Americans today. Siegel’s rigorous research and data-driven insights have long been influential in shaping investment strategies, explaining market behavior and understanding the impact of inflation on investment returns. When Siegel talks, investors pay attention.00:00 Introduction04:02 Why Jeremy argues stocks are the most stable asset class in the long term07:40 What bonds can be good hedges against09:16 The market, COVID-19 and the government’s response15:00 Why more than one-third of Americans are priced out of the housing market15:40 How deficit spending impacts the American economy21:10 Siegel’s take on the biggest threats to the American economy26:27 Trump’s tariffs and their impact on the economy34:53 Cryptocurrency and how it could change the U.S. payment system38:55 The shift toward private markets and equity40:17 Siegel’s take on what makes Americans exceptional RESOURCESFollow Peter on his social media accounts: X | LinkedIn | Instagram | FacebookFollow Creative Planning’s social media accounts: X | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Retired four-star General David Petraeus, Partner, Chairman of the KKR Global Institute and Chairman of KKR Middle East, joins Peter Mallouk for a powerful conversation on today’s shifting global landscape. From the war in Ukraine to the rise of AI-driven warfare, Petraeus offers rare insight into where power is moving — and why it matters for investors. Together, they unpack how leadership, strategy and adaptability are redefining global stability and opportunity.

Apollo CEO Marc Rowan sits down with Peter Mallouk to discuss private credit's rise, market convergence and leading a global investment giant. Their conversation goes beyond finance, revealing the personal passions and perspectives that shape Marc’s approach to building one of the world’s largest private investment firms. At Creative Planning, we believe in looking at the full picture. That’s why these discussions — spanning the markets, leadership and life — matter.

Larry Fink sits down with Peter Mallouk at BlackRock’s Hudson Yards headquarters to recount his path from Southern California to Wall Street and how a $100M loss shaped BlackRock’s risk-first culture. He reflects on the mindset that separates owners from lenders, why optimism outperforms over time and how America’s “messiness” fuels innovation. The conversation weaves from deficits and private capital to crypto, AI and the enduring premium of human connection — all before turning to Fink’s legacy and vision for a firm built to last.