Retire SMART Podcast

Ep 420. Iowa's Property Tax Reform 30.05.2026 11min

In this episode we look at the risks and opportunities surrounding major IPOs like SpaceX, explaining why investors should be cautious of the post-launch volatility that often follows highly anticipated public offerings. The conversation shifts to Iowa’s sweeping property tax reform, the evolving “4% retirement rule,” and how new investment vehicles like proposed Trump Accounts could reshape long-term retirement and wealth-building strategies for future generations.

Ep 419. Bond vs Bond Fund 29.05.2026 10min

What does David think about some economists saying the U.S. can grow its way out of deficits and debt; that the right policies can generate such robust growth in GDP that the resulting tax revenue will exceed spending? And what is the difference between a bond and a bond fund? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 418. Year-Round Tax Planning 28.05.2026 12min

Today, David welcomes CPA and Chief Tax Strategist Evan Marshall back to the studio to discuss why proactive tax planning is a year-round process, especially for entrepreneurs and high-income earners. The conversation includes strategies like Roth conversions, income shifting, and maximizing deductions under the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” while also exploring how tax incentives, state policies, and business-friendly legislation can shape long-term financial success for business owners and retirees alike.

Ep 417. Bond Vigilantes 27.05.2026 12min

David and Chip unpack the growing tensions surrounding Iran, the global economic ripple effects of disrupted oil and fertilizer supply chains, and why prolonged uncertainty could fuel inflation and market volatility. They also dive into the Federal Reserve’s shifting outlook on interest rates, the rise of “bond vigilantes,” and the outsized influence companies like NVIDIA now have on the broader market and everyday investors nearing retirement.

Ep 416. Rising Inflation and Fed Rate Hikes 23.05.2026 16min

David and Chip break down the latest economic indicators, including stronger-than-expected payroll numbers, rising inflation concerns, and the growing likelihood of future Fed rate hikes. They also discuss overvalued markets, AI’s outsized impact on the S&P 500, state-level “exit tax” proposals targeting wealthy residents and businesses, and why understanding risk and long-term economic policy matters more than ever for investors and retirees.

Ep 415. "Beefing" with Housing Prices 22.05.2026 5min

What did Professor Ernie Goss have to say at Retire SMART’s recent event? How optimistic are we with President Trump is taking action to bring down beef prices? Will it work? And since housing prices are down 6% from last year, does that mean property tax will also go down? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 414. The Largest US Flag is Coming to Omaha! 21.05.2026 11min

David is joined by longtime community leader Bill Williams to discuss an unforgettable Memorial Day celebration coming to Omaha and Lincoln featuring the world’s largest American flag, a patriotic drone show, and special performances honoring veterans and the nation’s 250th birthday. Bill also shares the heart behind Patriotic Productions, the impact of their veteran-focused mission, and why preserving patriotism and remembrance for future generations matters now more than ever.

Ep 413. The Great Minimum Wage Debate 20.05.2026 11min

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 16.05.2026 7min

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 15.05.2026 10min

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 14.05.2026 10min

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 13.05.2026 11min

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 09.05.2026 10min

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 08.05.2026 8min

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 07.05.2026 16min

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 06.05.2026 10min

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 02.05.2026 11min

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.

Ep 407. "Blue Wave" Midterm Effects for the Markets 01.05.2026 9min

What might a “blue wave” midterm do to the market? If retired, is it worth it to take money out of a 401(k) and put it in a Roth IRA? And can AI reduce or eliminate the traditional need for a growing population to grow GDP? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Ep 406. Overlooked Risks for Real Estate Investors 30.04.2026 12min

Today, David sits down with estate planning attorney Colin Kastrick to unpack the legal and financial risks real estate investors often overlook—from liability exposure on rental properties to the hidden dangers of transferring mortgaged properties into an LLC. They also dive into the importance of building the right professional team and why having updated powers of attorney can make all the difference when life takes an unexpected turn.

Ep 405. Market Reactions Amidst Iran Conflict 29.04.2026 12min

This episode dives into the market’s surprisingly calm reaction to global tensions, including Iran, and what it signals about where the economy may be headed. David breaks down the growing disconnect between soaring asset prices and struggling consumers in today’s “K-shaped” economy, while also unpacking tariffs, Fed leadership drama, and rising national debt. The big question: are markets seeing stability ahead—or ignoring risks that could catch investors off guard?