Retire SMART Podcast

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.

Ep 198. The Energy Cost of Crypto, with Brad Starken

We welcome back our resident authority on digital currency, Brad Starken, to decipher some major shifts in the world of crypto. From executive orders and strategic reserves to quantum computing and energy demands, Brad brings clarity to a rapidly evolving space—and shares what it all could mean for the future of crypto and regulation.

Ep 197. Trump's "Liberation Day"

On today's episode, we break down the economic and political landscape as the Trump administration’s tariffs—dubbed “Liberation Day”—go into effect. We explore the market implications, the administration's strategy to reshape U.S. revenue and labor, and what investors should watch amid Newsmax’s wild IPO surge and a possibly overvalued S&P 500. David Brooks unpacks trade policy, market cycles, and why it all matters.

Ep 196. The Downside of Lower Oil Prices

We investigate the latest headlines shaking up government accountability and energy policy. From the Social Security Administration’s massive cleanup of outdated records to the economic impact of oil prices, we break down what it all means for taxpayers and businesses alike. 

Ep 195. How Much Savings can DOGE find for the US?

If the war in Ukraine is settled, what sectors of the market will be affected and how? What is the estimated amount per taxpayer to pay down the debt and balance the budget? And how much savings can DOGE find from ending fraud in Social Security and Medicare? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.