Retire SMART Podcast
Business & Finance
About
We’re committed to helping you work toward achieving the retirement you want. We do this by providing guidance to help you develop an overall retirement income strategy and offering a variety of insurance and investment products to help achieve the objectives of that strategy. The team at Retire SMART is here to help ensure you receive all the assistance you need, not only in developing your retirement income strategy but in maintaining it throughout your retirement.
Episodes
- Ep 412. Palantir CEO's Bold Claims
Palantir CEO Alex Karp shares his views on technology, national defense, and societal duties. He discusses Silicon Valley's role, AI ethics, and critical thinking.
- Ep 411. Kevin Warsh's Changes to Federal Reserve Policy
This episode discusses Kevin Warsh's potential changes to Federal Reserve policy, the rising costs of Mutual of Omaha coverage, and the government's fiduciary responsibilities. David Brooks answers these questions in a Q&A format.
- Ep 410. The "Plow-Horse" Economy, with Ernie Goss
Economist Ernie Goss breaks down the “plow horse” economy, characterized by steady GDP growth, slow job creation, and an aging workforce. The discussion covers Federal Reserve policy, rising government debt, and the disconnect between econ…
- Ep 409. The Weight of Global Debt
This episode discusses rising global debt, its potential impact on the bond market, and global tensions surrounding oil and trade. It also touches on U.S. oil exports and OPEC dynamics.
- Ep 408. The Fraudulent Comptroller of Dixon, IL
This episode discusses changes in the housing market, a government fraud case, and Omaha as a destination for young professionals. It covers rising price cuts, slowing transactions, and affordability challenges for buyers and investors.
- Ep 407. "Blue Wave" Midterm Effects for the Markets
In this Q&A episode, David Brooks answers questions about the potential market effects of a "blue wave" midterm, converting 401(k) funds to a Roth IRA, and whether AI can reduce the need for population growth to drive GDP.
- Ep 406. Overlooked Risks for Real Estate Investors
David and Colin Kastrick discuss overlooked legal and financial risks for real estate investors. They cover liability, transferring mortgaged properties, and the importance of professional teams and updated powers of attorney.
- Ep 405. Market Reactions Amidst Iran Conflict
This episode examines the market's calm reaction to global tensions, including the Iran conflict, and its potential signals for the economy. It delves into the disconnect between asset prices and consumer struggles, along with topics like…
- Ep 404. Hidden Risks of HOA Policies
This episode discusses wealth migration trends and the hidden risks associated with HOA policies. It also provides a realistic perspective on the future of Social Security.
- Ep 403. What is a DOLLAR?
In this Q&A episode, David Brooks answers questions about railroad retirement taxes, the potential market impact of a "blue wave" midterm, and defines "what is a dollar?".
- Ep 402. From Intern to Advisor
CFP® Alex Murray discusses the importance of proactive tax planning after tax season, covering strategic forecasting, legislative changes, and real-time adjustments. He also shares his career path from intern to financial advisor, offering…
- Ep 401. Millions in Minutes
In this episode, the hosts reflect on business lessons from Sir Richard Branson’s private island, analyze current economic headlines, and examine how large-scale companies like Amazon generate significant revenue in seconds.
- Ep 400. Taxing the Rich VS Educating the Poor
In this episode, David and Chip examine the impact of tax policy on business and individual movement, referencing examples from Norway and the U.S. They also discuss the importance of professional financial guidance and strategic planning…
- Ep 399. The "Weight" of Precious Metals
David Brooks answers listener questions about the role of gold and silver in an investment portfolio, the pros and cons of home storage, and managing investments within a managed economy.
- Ep 398. Unpacking Social Security Myths, With Brad Starken
Financial Advisor Brad Starken joins David to discuss common Social Security myths, claiming strategies, and the role of digital assets in investment portfolios. They also explore the importance of proactive financial planning and risk man…
- Ep 397. Ceasefires and Market Surges
This episode covers how global events like the Iran ceasefire impact markets, recent volatility, and historical midterm trends. It also discusses Warren Buffett’s long-term investment philosophy and analyzes positive jobs data for the econ…
- Ep 396. The 50 State 'Tug-of-War'
Ep 396 of the Retire SMART Podcast examines the economic factors influencing population shifts and business growth across all 50 states. The episode explores how taxes, regulations, and cost of living contribute to the current economic cli…
- Ep 395. Outlook of a post-Trump America
David Brooks addresses listener questions regarding potential changes to Roth conversion tax rules, the investment implications of Blue Owl's performance, and the future of economic policies and tariffs in a post-Trump landscape.
- Ep 394. The 'Machine' Behind Retire SMART
In this episode, David and Josh Cheatle discuss the training system and collaborative planning process used at Retire SMART to deliver financial advice. They explain how their team-based approach aims to provide a better client experience…
- Ep 393. Sports, War, and Financial Firm Outsourcing
In this episode, the discussion covers the impact of sports events and geopolitical tensions on market volatility and investor behavior. The hosts analyze how to distinguish between market noise and information that is relevant to long-ter…
- Ep 392. Midwestern Work Ethic
This episode explores the impact of Nebraska's strong work ethic on driving major economic investments, such as new Google data centers. It also examines the resulting challenges regarding energy demand, infrastructure, and taxpayer benefi…
- Ep 391. Should I Buy a Used Car Now?
In this Q&A episode of the Retire SMART Podcast, David Brooks discusses the future of the Federal Reserve, the solvency of Social Security and Medicare, and current considerations for purchasing a vehicle.
- Ep 390. Financial "Court-Side" Concepts
In this episode of Retire SMART, financial advisor Sean Swanson discusses retirement and tax planning strategies by using basketball-themed analogies. The conversation covers the importance of having a well-prepared game plan to avoid cost…
- Ep 389. Rising War Tensions and Our Economy
This episode covers the impact of Middle East tensions on the global economy and oil markets. It also reviews inflation data, credit market concerns, and comparisons to the 2008 financial crisis.
- Ep 388. More InterState Migration!
In this episode, the hosts discuss a potential new downtown stadium project in Omaha, national interstate migration trends, and tax policy shifts. They also explore new wealth-building account strategies for the next generation.
- Ep 387. Retire SMART's Proactive-ness During Unrest and War
In this Q&A episode of the Retire SMART Podcast, host David Brooks discusses the firm's approach to portfolio management during times of geopolitical conflict. He also addresses concerns regarding foreign debt sales and includes a brief se…
- Ep 386. Buying and Selling a Business the Right Way
In this episode, estate planning attorney Colin Kastrick discusses key considerations for business owners, including entity selection and the process of buying or selling a business. The conversation also covers tax strategies for charitab…
- Ep 385. The Strait of Hormuz Ripple Effect
In this episode, hosts David and Chip discuss how geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz impact oil markets, along with the influence of AI, labor trends, and demographics on productivity. They also examine current tax policy headli…
- Ep 384. The Great Population Migration
This episode of the Retire SMART Podcast examines economic forces, including population migration, minimum wage impacts, and shifts in consumer demand across industries. The discussion connects these current events to foundational economic…
- Ep 383. Tucker's Take on the Gold Industry?
In this Q&A episode, David Brooks discusses Tucker Carlson's claims regarding the gold industry, the practice of financial firms providing banking services, and the economic development justifications for the Omaha streetcar project.
- Ep 382. Taking Advantage of Today's High Estate Tax Exemptions
Financial advisor Mike Schudel joins host David on the Retire SMART Podcast to discuss utilizing current high estate tax exemptions. They explore how potential future changes to these exemptions may impact estate planning and wealth transf…
- Ep 381. Middle East Tensions Rise & Economics
This episode examines the economic consequences of Middle East tensions, including impacts on oil and global strategy. David also discusses historical market performance during wartime, the implications of current tax cuts, and a realistic…
- Ep 380. The Fallout of Omaha Steaks' Big Decision
In this episode, David discusses the PR fallout from Omaha Steaks' decision to stop supplying local restaurants, a regulatory issue involving a barber-themed lounge, and Nebraska's work-life balance rankings. The episode also covers BlackR…
- Ep 379. What Does SMART Stand For?
David Brooks answers listener questions about the differences between ETFs and mutual funds, financial guidance for a recently widowed retiree, and the meaning of the SMART acronym in the Retire SMART podcast.
- Ep 378. What Medicare Does NOT Cover
CFP Blake Grimm joins David on the Retire SMART Podcast to discuss Medicare updates, including Part B premiums and drug costs. They provide an overview of what is and is not covered by Medicare, such as dental, vision, long-term care, and…
- Ep 377. Is AI Helping or Hurting Jobs?
David discusses the State of the Market Address, covering inflation, federal policy decisions, and economic growth. The episode also examines the Fed's credibility, a Supreme Court tariff ruling, and the potential impact of AI on the econo…
- Ep 376. The Slow Downfall of Wall Street
David discusses Riston’s Law, the history of Wall Street, and how global wealth migration impacts investors and retirees. The episode also highlights the importance of tax strategy and finding purpose in retirement.
- Ep 375. How AI is REALLY Affecting Jobs.
In this Q&A episode of the Retire SMART Podcast, David Brooks discusses the impact of AI on jobs, the relationship between tariffs and rising prices, and the government's response to the housing situation.
- Ep 374. The Most Impactful Retirement Strategy, With Mark Rowlette
Financial advisor Mark Rowlette joins David on the Retire SMART Podcast to discuss the importance of proactive tax planning in retirement. They explore how tax strategies can impact retirement income and wealth preservation.
- Ep 373. A Little Tax Refund Surprise
In this episode, David and Chip discuss leadership and community impact before analyzing current financial news, including inflation data, tax refunds, and federal workforce updates. They also examine the effects of policy decisions on bus…
- Ep 372. Nebraska Outperforms on Income Growth
This episode explores Nebraska's real income growth and its impact on the local economy. The discussion also addresses government spending, business challenges, and the importance of finding purpose and fulfillment in retirement.
- Ep 371. Inheriting an Annuity from the Passing of a Loved One
In this Q&A episode of the Retire SMART Podcast, host David Brooks addresses listener questions regarding long-term care planning, managing an inherited annuity, and 401(k) rollovers while still employed.
- Ep 370. Tips for Business Owners During Tax Season
In this episode, we discuss tax season strategies for business owners, covering topics such as the Qualified Business Income deduction, accelerated depreciation, and tax planning for business exits.
- Ep 369. The Biggest Loss From Winning the Big Game
This episode discusses client events, economic headlines, job market data, and potential impacts on interest rates. It also examines the tax implications of winning a major NFL championship.
- Ep 368. The 32K Crock Pot
This episode covers topics including U.S. manufacturing data, tariffs, taxes, and economic growth. The hosts also discuss declining test scores, the housing market, and the risks associated with looser mortgage regulations.
- Ep 367. Can I Meet David Brooks?
In this Q&A episode, David Brooks explains the differences between fee-based, fee-only, and flat-fee structures. He also addresses concerns regarding short-term reserves, 401(k) management, and explains why he does not conduct individual c…
- Ep 366. The Business of Sports
In this episode, financial advisor Alex Murray and David Brooks discuss the business side of sports, including ticket pricing, betting, and the economic impact of major events. They also examine how sports serve as economic engines, specif…
- Ep 365. Warsh for Fed Chair
David and Chip discuss the potential nomination of Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve Chair and analyze its implications for inflation, interest rates, gold, and retirement investment strategies. They also examine how such a policy shift could…
- Ep 364. Insider Trading and Earmark Spending in Congress
This episode examines how tax policy and government incentives impact economic growth, while also discussing the debate surrounding insider trading and earmark spending within Congress. The conversation explores the role of money in policy…
- Ep 363. What Sets Retire SMART Apart From the Others
In this Q&A episode of the Retire SMART Podcast, David Brooks discusses rolling out a 457 plan for real estate investment, retiring at 57, and the unique service approach of Retire SMART.