Retire SMART Podcast

Ep 282. High-Net-Worth Challenges with Mike Shudel

David welcomes back financial advisor, Mike Schudel, to discuss the unique challenges high-net-worth families and business owners face in planning for succession, taxes, and wealth transfer. They unpack why no single advisor can cover all the complexities, the importance of building a coordinated team, and how research-backed models like Wharton’s help manage risk for retirees and entrepreneurs alike.

Ep 281. Job Openings vs. the Unemployed

The Huskers’ explosive 68–0 home opener sparks a conversation about leadership, standards, and finishing strong on the field. David and Chip reflect on the excitement of seeing their brand in the stadium, personal family moments, and the lessons in Matt Rhule’s halftime speech. Then, they shift gears to the economy, unpacking weak job growth, shifting labor dynamics, and what it means for college grads, trades, and the future of work.

Ep 280. The Retiree "Gold Standard"

Is the 4% rule really the gold standard for retirement planning? David says no, and breaks down why relying on it could leave retirees short. The discussion then moves to fresh tax legislation, smart Roth conversion strategies, and housing market concerns as interest rates climb and affordability slips.

Ep 279. The 401(k) Q&A

Today, Chip brings 3 questions all related to 401(k) in retirement.

Ep 278. Medicare Insights With Blake Grimm

David welcomes financial planner Blake Grimm for a timely conversation on Medicare. From open enrollment dates to the hidden costs of Advantage plans and rising Part B premiums, this episode helps retirees understand their options and avoid costly mistakes.

Ep 277. Cracks in NVIDIA's Earnings

David recaps Nebraska’s season opener at Arrowhead and the unforgettable fan experience that came with it. Then the focus turns to the news—Trump’s clash with the Federal Reserve, questions around NVIDIA’s growth, and a closer look at how a consumption-based fair tax could reshape Nebraska’s future.

Ep 276. Wealthy Investors Shift Towards Annuities

Zero fear in the markets, seasonal selloffs, and Jackson Hole patterns—David explains what these indicators might mean for investors right now. The conversation then spans hiring slowdowns, tax flight, global policy shifts, and ends with a deep dive into why annuities are gaining traction among wealthy investors as part of proactive tax planning.

Ep 275. Pay Off Debt or Pile Up Money Before Retirement?

What is an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust and why should I do it? How much should I depend on an inheritance being a part of my retirement plan? And right before my retirement, should I focus more on paying off debt or piling up more money in my account?  David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 274. Welcome Becky Swansburg!

From the White House press office to Capitol Hill, Becky Swansburg has seen firsthand how policy decisions shape Americans’ financial futures. Becky joins in the conversation with David and breaks down the newest tax changes, the realities of legislative risk, and how to strategically plan for rising taxes over the next 20 to 40 years.

Ep 273. The Evergrande Fallout

It’s Husker season kickoff, and the team shares their game-day predictions along with some personal football plans for the year. Then the conversation shifts to the economy, covering government intervention in private companies, the fallout of China’s real estate giant Evergrande, and a surprising twist in the housing market where brand-new homes are now selling for less than existing ones.