Retire SMART Podcast

In this episode, we tackle a major local headline as Omaha considers a new downtown stadium project—and what it could mean for taxpayers, businesses, and the future of the city. From there, we shift to national trends, breaking down interstate migration, tax policy shifts, and why high earners and major companies are relocating across the country. Plus, we explore new wealth-building opportunities for the next generation, including emerging account strategies that could dramatically impact long-term financial security.

During this time of geopolitical unrest and war, what is Retire SMART doing to prepare their clients’ portfolios? If China and Japan are selling American debt, how will that affect our investments? And how far will Nebraska go in the NCAA tournament? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Today, we sit down with estate planning attorney Colin Kastrick to break down the critical decisions business owners can’t afford to get wrong—from entity selection to buying and selling a business the right way. We also dive into powerful tax strategies around charitable giving, including how donor-advised funds can maximize impact while minimizing tax liability. If you want to keep more of what you earn and build smarter long-term wealth, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

David and Chip break down rising geopolitical tensions and what they really mean for global oil markets, from tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz to the surprising signals coming out of futures pricing. Then, they zoom out to the big picture—exploring how AI, shifting labor trends, and demographics could reshape productivity and the future of work. Plus, a look at tax policy headlines and a cautionary tale on wealth, as even a $100 million career doesn’t guarantee financial security.

In today’s episode, we explore several headlines highlighting how economic forces shape everyday decisions—from the decline of local newspapers to shifting consumer demand in the auto industry. We also examine broader economic trends, including population migration driven by taxes and the unintended consequences of raising minimum wages. Throughout the discussion, we connect current events back to basic economic principles and how they impact communities, businesses, and workers.

What does David think of Tucker Carlson’s latest accusation concerning the gold industry? Is it a good idea for a financial firm to also offer banking services? And with all the uproar about the Omaha streetcar project, is economic development looking to still be its main justification? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Today, David is joined by financial advisor Mike Schudel to discuss why the current tax environment may be one of the most powerful opportunities for estate planning in decades. They discuss how today’s historically high estate tax exemptions could change in the future—and why waiting to plan could cost families significantly. The conversation also covers practical strategies to help protect wealth, reduce taxes, and ensure assets are passed on exactly how you intend.

This episode dives into the economic ripple effects of the latest Middle East tensions, including how oil flows, China’s energy dependence, and global strategy are shaping the bigger picture. David also breaks down why markets historically push forward even during wartime and what current tax cuts could mean for American households. Plus, a reality check on AI—cutting through the hype to explain where the real economic impact stands today.

Today’s discussion covers several timely local and national business stories. David breaks down Omaha Steaks’ controversial decision to stop supplying local restaurants and its PR fallout, covers a regulatory overreach involving a barber-themed lounge, and celebrates Nebraska cities ranking high for work-life balance. The episode wraps with a sobering reminder from BlackRock CEO Larry Fink about retirement savings, emphasizing the importance of planning and personal financial responsibility.

What is the difference between an exchange-traded fund and a mutual fund? With my husbands’ recent passing, me being 46, and having $450,000 saved, along with having to take withdrawals, I feel lost and don’t know where to start. How can I navigate this? And what does the acronym SMART stand for, in Retire SMART? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

David is joined by CFP Blake Grimm to break down the latest Medicare updates, including rising Part B premiums and changes to prescription drug costs. They walk through what Medicare actually covers — and what it doesn’t — from dental and vision to long-term care and ambulance rides. If you’re nearing retirement or already on Medicare, this is a must-listen to avoid costly surprises.

David breaks down the highlights from this year’s State of the Market Address, where people gathered to hear his take on the economy, inflation, and what’s really driving policy decisions. He dives into the Fed’s credibility, the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling, and whether AI is actually moving the needle on economic growth. If you want a no-nonsense perspective on markets and headlines, this one delivers.

Today, David unpacks Riston’s Law on a global scale — from the Dutch origins of Wall Street to modern wealth migration as countries experiment with taxing unrealized gains. The conversation explores how capital moves where it’s treated best, what that means for investors and retirees, and why proactive tax strategy matters more than ever. Plus, a powerful reminder that retirement isn’t just about money — it’s about purpose, planning, and making sure your life still matters.

Are tariffs partly to blame with all the rising prices? Where AI would be expected to reduce work, does it actually intensify it? And is President Trump doing too little, too slowly to address the housing situation? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

This episode features guest financial advisor Mark Rowlett with South Shore Retirement Services; he and David dive into why proactive tax planning is one of the most overlooked — yet most impactful — parts of retirement and wealth strategy. The conversation covers how taxes can erode retirement income, why location and policy matter, and how smart planning can help families keep more of what they’ve earned. If you want to understand the real power of tax strategy, this episode is a must-listen.

Today’s show opens with reflections on leadership, generosity, and community impact before diving into today’s financial news. David and Chip unpack positive inflation data, tax refund surprises, and federal workforce changes, along with a case study on how policy decisions affect businesses and workers. It’s a mix of perspective and practical economics you won’t want to miss.

This episode covers some surprising economic trends — including why Nebraska is outperforming much of the country when it comes to real income growth — and what that means for workers and business owners. We also dig into concerns about government spending, business incentives, and the challenges small businesses face navigating bureaucracy. Plus, an important conversation about retirement that goes beyond money — focusing on purpose, fulfillment, and why having a plan for life after work truly matters.

With long-term care being a complicated and expensive process for us, while we’re in our 60s and in good health, is it really worth the trouble going through? What am I supposed to do with an annuity I inherited after my mother’s passing? And what are David’s thoughts on me rolling over my 401(k) while I’m still working? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

This episode focuses on what business owners should be thinking about during tax season — from proactive tax planning to maximizing the value of your company. We break down strategies like the Qualified Business Income deduction, accelerated depreciation, and how proper planning could potentially save millions in taxes when exiting a business. If you’re an entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with opportunities you may not even realize exist.

This episode covers everything from hosting client events to breaking down the latest economic headlines. We dive into strong jobs data, what it could mean for interest rates, and even the surprising tax hit an NFL Big-Game–winning quarterback could face. It’s a fast-paced conversation on money, markets, and the real-world impact of policy decisions.

This episode dives into rising U.S. manufacturing data and the debate over tariffs, taxes, and economic growth. The guys also share a wild $32,000 antique crock story before turning to bigger issues — falling test scores, housing market nerves, and why looser mortgage rules could revive old financial risks. It’s a fast-moving look at how policy and market trends connect to your money.

What do the terms “flat-fee, fee-only, and fee-based” mean? What are short-term reserves and what are the risks of messing with a 401(k) in relation to a recent reddit post encouraging people to protest the current presidential administration. And when I call to schedule an appointment with Retire SMART, why can’t I meet with David? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

What starts as Big Game chatter turns into a fascinating look at the business of sports. Financial Advisor, Alex Murray and David Brooks break down ticket prices, sports betting, and how host cities can see hundreds of millions in economic impact from major events — then bring it closer to home with Omaha, Lincoln, and the power of Husker athletics. It’s football, finance, and why stadiums and sports culture can be serious economic engines.

David and Chip kick things off with some big-game banter but quickly pivot to a major economic shake-up: the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the next Fed Chair. They break down why markets reacted so hard, what a tighter Federal Reserve could mean for inflation, interest rates, and gold, and why investors—especially near retirement—can’t afford a “set it and forget it” strategy. Big policy shift, real portfolio impact.

From companies relocating to low-tax states to questions about lawmakers trading stocks, this episode tackles where money flows — and why. The conversation breaks down how tax policy influences economic growth, why government incentives matter, and the growing debate over insider trading and earmark spending in Congress. It’s a big-picture discussion on power, policy, and the impact on everyday investors.

What are the pros and cons of rolling out a 457 to buy a rental property? What should I do when I’m 57 and ready to be done with my job, but unsure if I have enough money to walk into retirement? And how is Retire SMART a different than other brokers? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Social Security takes center stage, with advisor Brad Starken, as the conversation tackles new projections, funding concerns, and the real story behind potential benefit changes. Brad and David explain how demographics, taxes, and possible reforms could shape the program’s future, plus why when and how you claim matters more than most people realize. It’s a practical look at turning a complex system into a smarter retirement decision.

From subzero temps to red-hot topics, the guys kick things off with Husker basketball before breaking down what’s really driving the markets. They unpack the latest Fed meeting, what the statement signals about rate cuts, and why clarity matters more than the decision itself. Plus, a big-picture look at housing trends and how shifting supply could reshape prices in the years ahead.

David connects the dots between global debt concerns, tax policy, and a simple economic truth—money moves to opportunity and away from pressure. From Seattle tax proposals to shifting state trends, he explains how policy decisions can reshape where people live, work, and invest. The episode wraps with a look at the housing market, including easing mortgage lock-in, downsizing challenges, and why real estate may look different in the years ahead.

What questions should I ask when interviewing a financial advisor? And after dumping all my earnings back into my business for the past 25 years, while also wanting to scale back my involvement in my business, but not yet retire, what is a wise way to approach this situation? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

David is joined by advisor Jacob Orand to break down key tax moves and charitable giving strategies as a new filing season approaches. They explain new above-the-line deduction rules for cash donations, why documentation matters more than ever, and how retirees could benefit from stacking deductions. The conversation also covers common tax filing mistakes, Roth conversions, crypto reporting, and why slowing down can save you from costly errors.

This episode opens with a major Retire Smart milestone, celebrating the firm’s first awards gala and growth to more than 1,000 households served. From there, David breaks down President Trump’s latest global economic comments, tariffs, and why Greenland has suddenly become a key geopolitical and market conversation. The discussion connects world events to what they could mean for trade, markets, and investors.

This episode tackles big-picture issues shaping the economy, starting with healthcare costs, government spending, and why well-intentioned policies often drive prices higher. David also unpacks market history, including what strong rebounds can signal for the year ahead and why staying invested matters more than timing the market. The conversation closes with insights on trade data, gold, and why missing a Santa Claus rally may not be as scary as it sounds.

We own a lot that’s never been built on, still owe $120,000 for it, and can’t seem to sell it; what are we to do? What is a 770 account and if I want one, where can I get it? And what can I expect if I come to one of your “Taxes in Retirement” events? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

David is joined by Brandon Stuerke, founder of The Retirement Institute, an online education platform built to help retirees and pre-retirees get real answers to real financial questions. They discuss why retirement planning needs specialists—not generalists—and how technology is helping close the growing advice gap as millions retire and advisors exit the industry. The conversation also dives into advisor training, Roth conversions, business succession planning, and why education is the future of retirement planning.

We open the show with a heartfelt tribute to Sandy Dodge, a true Omaha community leader whose legacy of service and giving back continues to inspire. From there, David breaks down key economic headlines, including cooling inflation, Fed drama, and what the latest data could mean for interest rates. Then we wrap with a deep dive into taxes, wealth tax proposals, and why policy decisions often come with serious unintended consequences.

Part 4 of David Brook's Debate with Adam Curran, with Curran Financial.

Part 3 of David Brook's Debate with Adam Curran, with Curran Financial.

Part 2 of David Brook's Debate with Adam Curran, with Curran Financial.

Part 1 of David Brook's Debate with Adam Curran, with Curran Financial.

Today, David breaks down several big money headlines, starting with changes to Social Security that could impact benefits, earnings limits, and when it pays to file. The discussion then shifts to Economics 101, covering wealth taxes, electric vehicles, and what rising minimum wages really mean for businesses and consumers.

If my mother, who has a couple annuities, passes away, will those annuities be taxable to me? Will I be taxed heavily when I cash in savings bonds I inherited from my parents? And at 50 years old and with 22 years left on my mortgage, should I pay off the house with the after-tax-account money from my divorce? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

In this episode, David is joined by senior advisor Sean Swanson to share some exciting Retire Smart news, including the addition of a new advisor to the team. The conversation then walks through the SMART planning process and how having a clear, written plan can bring confidence through every stage of retirement.

We open today with a powerful reminder of impact—how a simple shoebox gift can change lives in ways no one expects. From there, David breaks down the business of sports, major shifts in college athletics, and what booming program valuations tell us about money, markets, and momentum heading into the new year.

In the final preview segment as we head into the new year, David takes a hard look at the economic forces shaping retirement planning. From inflation, housing, and interest rates to AI, wages, and the massive wealth transfer underway, the discussion focuses on what really matters for households as conditions continue to shift.

Today David shifts the focus to what’s ahead for Retire Smart in 2026. From continued hiring and expanded internships to deeper community involvement and a full year partnering with Husker Athletics, the discussion highlights how the firm plans to keep growing while staying rooted in education and service.

In this year-end review, David looks back on a milestone year for Retire Smart, marked by rapid growth, new team members, and nearly 1,000 households served. The conversation highlights the opening of the Lincoln office, expanded community partnerships, and deeper involvement with Husker Athletics. It’s a snapshot of how education, service, and planning drove the firm’s momentum in 2025.

Looking back into 2025, we’re breaking down the year that was. From Trump’s return to office and market volatility to AI’s rapid growth, interest rates, and the widening gap between asset owners and everyone else, we unpack the biggest forces that shaped the economy.

Big changes are coming at Berkshire Hathaway as Warren Buffett’s long-standing leadership era winds down. We also dig into farm subsidies, small-town affordability, and why more Americans are becoming 401(k) millionaires. And finally, we ask the big year-end question: will the market deliver a Santa rally?

What strategies should I look for from financial advisors who focus on retirees, rather than everyone else? Is there a good rule of thumb for how much of my IRA should be invested in safe investments at age 60? And what are stock options and how do I get compensated for them? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.