Cut through market fear, witness inspiring stories, and tackle the challenging housing market with optimism and insight. Gain the clarity you need to seek financial freedom and retirement happiness. Wes and Jeff explore the week’s essential themes, including:

• The S&P 500, dividend stocks, and bonds posting gains that were higher than many had feared. After a sharp drop in April, markets rebounded strongly, marking the best May in 35 years.

• Inflation hit a four-year low, calming fears and fueling market optimism.

• A pop-up chicken stand that became Dave’s Hot Chicken, is now valued near $1 billion. Is chicken catching up to beef in the world of fast food?

• Long-term stock investing continues to demonstrate effectiveness: no 12-year period in the S&P 500 over the last 90 years has shown a loss.

• Home buying is becoming more challenging for younger Americans. What has the new median first-time buyer age risen to?

• U.S. housing transactions have plummeted. Is it due to high mortgage rates? Low mobility? Both?

• Can a pension can be treated like a bond in a retirement allocation strategy?

• A listener from Idaho highlights how millions of Americans with pensions may benefit from tailored planning beyond 401(k)s.

• Jeff and Wes wrap with favorite burger spots—and the effect that Sunday closures seem to have on Chick-fil-A.