Retire SMART Podcast

Ep 208. Brokers vs Advisors

David unpacks a surprisingly important distinction in the financial world: the difference between brokers and advisors. He explores how compensation structures impact client relationships, and why a push for clearer titles could help consumers make more informed financial decisions.

Ep 207. Buying the Dream Home With Your IRA?

How do you convince a financial DIY’er to get expert financial help? Should I take money out of my IRA, even without penalties, to help buy my dream retirement home in the country? And should I stop contributing to my company’s 401(k) because they’re not matching it anymore, and put my money elsewhere? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 206. IRS Staffing Changes, Post Tax Season

"Tax Day is finally behind us, and CPA Evan Marshall joins David in the discussion to talk about what smart tax planning looks like after tax season. We cover IRS staffing changes, the upcoming expiration of the Trump-era tax cuts, and what entrepreneurs and retirees should be doing now to stay ahead.

Ep 205. The Tariff "UNO" Reverse Card

David and Chip break down the market’s wild swing following tariff reversals, uncover why a massive rally might be a red flag, and explain how retirees can pivot from panic to preparedness. Plus—what J.P. Morgan and consumer sentiment surveys are signaling about what’s next.

Ep 204. "Mine Baby Mine!"

Social Security checks are getting a boost this April, thanks to new changes tied to the Fairness Act—some retirees are even receiving unexpected lump sums. Plus, we investigate what “wider market breadth” really means, and why it could be signaling shifts ahead. And in a surprise energy update, federal agencies are greenlighting more coal mining in a bid for U.S. energy independence.

Ep 203. The "Melissa's Mattress Money" Method

Should I use the $200,000, that’s in an after-tax account, I’m getting from my divorce to pay off my house, which has 22 years left on the mortgage? And with the markets being so unpredictable, should I be like Mrs. Brooks with my investments and go the route of the “Melissa’s mattress money” method?  David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 202. IRMAA Penalties, with Alex Murray

Certified Financial Planner Alex Murray returns to unpack key Medicare penalties like IRMAA and share insights from the first IRMAA planning class. The team also debunks some viral — and dangerous — financial advice circulating online, while stressing the importance of holistic planning, trusted counsel, and smart tax-efficient strategies for major financial decisions.

Ep 201. The 2025 Bearish Market

What do Philadelphia sports teams and market downturns have in common? David and Chip explore an uncanny pattern in market history, unpack the role of investor sentiment in bear markets, and share why active management matters—especially when emotions run high.

Ep 200. More States Scrapping Income Tax

Today we investigate the evolving landscape of state taxation and its impact on housing markets and economic migration. From Florida’s bold consideration of eliminating property taxes to Mississippi becoming the 10th state to scrap income tax, we examine how these shifts could spark real estate booms, reshape state economies, and influence where Americans choose to live and work.

Ep 199. How to Best Help Your Grandchild Through College

With so many changing factors in the political and economic spectrum, how much is enough to live off for a 20–30-year retirement? What is the tax impact for my spouse, or myself, if one of us passes and the other inherits the IRA of the spouse? And what is the best way to help send my grandchild through college? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.