Retire SMART Podcast

Ep 244. Best Run U.S. Cities

In this episode, we look into a WalletHub study ranking Lincoln and Omaha among the best-run cities in the U.S., citing factors like affordability, healthcare, and economic stability—while also cautioning about fiscal challenges ahead. Then they explore the surging retail investor activity, the dangers of leveraged ETFs, and the need for smarter risk allocation. Finally, they tackle political tensions around interest rates, the Fed, and U.S.-China economic imbalances, warning investors to stay sharp during this period of global transition.

Ep 243. Looking for an Advisor in Your 30s?

In times of geopolitical turbulence, should investors consider gold, treasuries, and other government bonds? For someone in their 30s, what attributes and red flags should I look for in an advisor? And what exactly constitutes as an “estate?” David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 242. Faults in Jimmy Buffett's Estate

Financial advisor Mike Schudel returns to the studio to unveil the estate planning missteps surrounding Jimmy Buffett’s $275 million fortune—even with a plan in place. From celebrity-level complexities to real-world takeaways, Mike shares how lack of communication, trustee choices, and asset liquidity can all lead to costly legal battles. He also previews the upcoming estate and tax planning class designed to help families avoid similar pitfalls, no matter the size of their estate.

Ep 241. Escalation in the Middle East

David and Chip reflect on the economic impact of the College World Series in Omaha, then break down the recent military escalation between Israel and Iran, including the U.S. intervention with a high-stakes precision airstrike. The conversation explores the surprising market response, potential supply chain impacts, and what these developments could mean for inflation, oil prices, and the economic outlook for American retirees.

Ep 240. America's Secret Weapon

Today, David and Chip discuss the M2 money supply and its potential contraction, and the implications for the economy. Plus, the Supreme Court's decision granting DOGE expanded access to social security data, weighing the concerns about privacy against the goal of government efficiency. Finally, they examine America's "secret weapon" in its economic competition with China: rare earth minerals and the push to re-shore key industries.

Ep 239. Doomed to Work Till Death?

With retirement around the corner, but $20k left in my mortgage, should I use money from my 401(k) to pay it off so I can be debt free? What is the IRMAA penalty and how can I avoid it? And with only $125,000 in retirement accounts, are we doomed to work until we die, or is there hope of a decent retirement? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 238. Coinbase Joins the S&P 500

Join us as financial advisor, Brad Starken, discusses the latest in digital assets. We'll cover Coinbase joining the S&P 500, the rise of stable coins for efficient cross-border transactions, and how mainstream investors can gain exposure to cryptocurrencies through ETFs. Plus, learn about our upcoming class on digital assets and blockchain technology.

Ep 237. Changes with China's Trade Deal

On today's podcast, we discuss the growth of Retire Smart and the upcoming third annual teammates golf tournament. We'll also investigate current events, including President Trump's recent statement on a trade deal with China, the latest U.S. job numbers, and the impact of AI on companies like Google. Join us as we break down these topics and more!

Ep 236. The Great De-scaling of Office Real Estate

Today, we explore the seismic shift in office real estate as companies move away from traditional large buildings toward smaller, regional offices and adaptive reuse of spaces. We also look into misconceptions around Warren Buffett’s treasury investments and take a close look at evolving housing market trends in major cities. Stay tuned for insights on what these changes mean for banks, urban development, and investors.

Ep 235. Retiring at 59?

Should I sign up for Medicare at 65, even though I have good health insurance through my job? What is a 770 account and how do I get one? And should I retire at 59, even if my advisor tells me I should be able to do so comfortably? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.