Retire SMART Podcast

Ep 146. Here Comes the Pain (Business Edition)

The outlook for certain major iconic brands is rather gloomy; Big Lots is starting “going out of business sales” at its remaining locations. Also, according to David Brooks, even though optimism is on the rise with new leadership taking the helm of the U.S, there is some pain to be had in the manufacturing and services sectors, particularly with cutting hours and layoffs.

Ep 145. Let's Thrive in 2025!

Happy New Year from Retire SMART! Today, David gives a brief overview of the economic highlights and takeaways of 2024, while also giving an optimistic outlook for 2025.

Ep 144. "Fart"coin?

An Old Omaha commercial building is being revamped into residential quarters in downtown Omaha. Plus, a digital currency that may just be "full of air."

Ep 143. Taxation On My Roth Contributions?

Is it advantageous to still use a ROTH IRA, even though my contributions are taxed? Also an ex-employee from Open AI becomes a whistleblower and is found dead shortly after; was this a suicide or is there a conspiracy brewing? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today's Q&A episode.

Ep 142. Gen Z is Back in the Mall!

Bitcoin proxy micro strategy to join the Nasdaq 100, death and retirement tax changes could add $723B in revenue over 10 years, and Gen Z’ers returning to the mall.

Ep 141. The Reason for the Season, with Bart Wilkins

Merry Christmas from Retire SMART! Join in on the discussion between David Brooks and Bart Wilkins, lead pastor of Flatland Church, of what the true meaning and origin of Christmas is.

Ep 140. Wisdom from Uncle Warren

David breaks down each generations perspective on what it means to be financially successful, and responds to Warren Buffett’s suggestion for all parents, as stated in a 2024 Thanksgiving letter titled “My Dad did the same with me.”

Ep 139. Is a Million Bucks in our 70s Enough to Live Off of?

What happens to the substantial cash value of my life insurance policy if I choose to convert to a new one with a smaller death benefit? With the recent wild cards, like taxes and inflation, is a million dollars enough to keep us afloat in our 70s? And is it advantageous for big box retailers to shrink the size of their stores and offer more amenities? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 138. The Mighty Bitcoin, with Brad Starken

We’re back with financial advisor, Brad Starken, our go-to resident authority on digital assets and cryptocurrency, discussing the latest trends, key insights, and what’s happening with the hot button item in crypto world; Bitcoin.

Ep 137. Optimism On the Rise

Retire SMART continues to make strides in 2024 by making the top 52 RIAs to work for list this year! In other news, things are beginning to “melt up” as Americans spend at least $73 Billion more in December than any other month, and according to the Federal Reserve, household optimism has practically doubled.