Retire SMART Podcast

Ep 413. The Great Minimum Wage Debate

David recaps a much-needed vacation with his wife aboard one of the world’s largest cruise ships before diving into Retire SMART’s recent Private Wealth Partners summit for high-net-worth clients. The conversation then shifts into Nebraska primary election surprises, minimum wage debates, and how ongoing tensions with Iran and China could impact markets, politics, and the economy heading into the midterms.

The Entrepreneur's Journey - pt.4

This the final part of a special conversation David Brooks had with Gregory Wilnau, a web designer and digital marketer For The Finance Niche. Gregory talks with David about building Retire Smart around proactive tax planning, client education, and a values-driven team culture. David shares how his journey from restaurant entrepreneur to financial advisor shaped his mission to help retirees and business owners avoid costly tax mistakes, plan with confidence, and make smarter long-term decisions.

The Entrepreneur's Journey - pt.3

This is part 3 of a special conversation David Brooks had with Gregory Wilnau, a web designer and digital marketer For The Finance Niche. Gregory talks with David about building Retire Smart around proactive tax planning, client education, and a values-driven team culture. David shares how his journey from restaurant entrepreneur to financial advisor shaped his mission to help retirees and business owners avoid costly tax mistakes, plan with confidence, and make smarter long-term decisions.

The Entrepreneur's Journey - pt.2

This is part 2 of a special conversation David Brooks had with Gregory Wilnau, a web designer and digital marketer For The Finance Niche. Gregory talks with David about building Retire Smart around proactive tax planning, client education, and a values-driven team culture. David shares how his journey from restaurant entrepreneur to financial advisor shaped his mission to help retirees and business owners avoid costly tax mistakes, plan with confidence, and make smarter long-term decisions.

The Entrepreneur's Journey - pt.1

This is part 1 of a special conversation David Brooks had with Gregory Wilnau [Will-nuh], a web designer and digital marketer For The Finance Niche. Gregory talks with David about building Retire Smart around proactive tax planning, client education, and a values-driven team culture. David shares how his journey from restaurant entrepreneur to financial advisor shaped his mission to help retirees and business owners avoid costly tax mistakes, plan with confidence, and make smarter long-term decisions.

Ep 412. Palantir CEO's Bold Claims

Today is all about Palantir CEO Alex Karp and his bold perspective on technology, national defense, and society’s responsibilities. The discussion explores his belief that Silicon Valley owes a duty to support the country, alongside broader themes like the ethical use of AI, the dangers of “app dependency,” and the need to reconnect with real-world experiences. It also touches on his more philosophical views—encouraging civil discourse, respect for public servants, and a push for common-sense thinking in an increasingly polarized and tech-driven world.

Ep 411. Kevin Warsh's Changes to Federal Reserve Policy

How will Kevin Warsh change Federal Reserve policy, practice, and methodology? What can be done about the coverage cost that has skyrocketed with Mutual of Omaha? And does the government have a fiduciary to lead it in the right direction?  David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 410. The "Plow-Horse" Economy, with Ernie Goss

This episode features economist Ernie Goss breaking down a “plow horse” economy—steady GDP growth driven by investment and productivity, but with sluggish job creation and an aging workforce reshaping labor dynamics. The conversation dives into Federal Reserve policy, rising government debt, and the growing disconnect between economic output and employment trends. It also explores tax policy debates, migration patterns, and why consumption-based taxes and reduced government spending may play a key role in future economic growth.

Ep 409. The Weight of Global Debt

A second attempted assassination made headlines, but with no injuries, markets largely shrugged it off. Meanwhile, global tensions around oil and trade continue to simmer, with record U.S. oil exports and shifts in OPEC dynamics influencing price volatility and inflation concerns. On the financial front, rising global debt is raising alarms about a potential bond market crisis, as higher interest rates could make debt increasingly difficult to sustain.

Ep 408. The Fraudulent Comptroller of Dixon, IL

Cracks may be forming in the housing market as price cuts rise and transactions slow, forcing sellers to rethink expectations in a higher-rate environment. The conversation breaks down what this means for buyers, first-time homeowners, and long-term investors navigating affordability challenges and shifting demand. It also takes a sharp turn into government accountability, unpacking a massive fraud case and why transparency matters—before ending on a brighter note with why Omaha is emerging as a top destination for young professionals.