Retire SMART Podcast

During this time of geopolitical unrest and war, what is Retire SMART doing to prepare their clients’ portfolios? If China and Japan are selling American debt, how will that affect our investments? And how far will Nebraska go in the NCAA tournament? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Today, we sit down with estate planning attorney Colin Kastrick to break down the critical decisions business owners can’t afford to get wrong—from entity selection to buying and selling a business the right way. We also dive into powerful tax strategies around charitable giving, including how donor-advised funds can maximize impact while minimizing tax liability. If you want to keep more of what you earn and build smarter long-term wealth, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

David and Chip break down rising geopolitical tensions and what they really mean for global oil markets, from tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz to the surprising signals coming out of futures pricing. Then, they zoom out to the big picture—exploring how AI, shifting labor trends, and demographics could reshape productivity and the future of work. Plus, a look at tax policy headlines and a cautionary tale on wealth, as even a $100 million career doesn’t guarantee financial security.

In today’s episode, we explore several headlines highlighting how economic forces shape everyday decisions—from the decline of local newspapers to shifting consumer demand in the auto industry. We also examine broader economic trends, including population migration driven by taxes and the unintended consequences of raising minimum wages. Throughout the discussion, we connect current events back to basic economic principles and how they impact communities, businesses, and workers.

What does David think of Tucker Carlson’s latest accusation concerning the gold industry? Is it a good idea for a financial firm to also offer banking services? And with all the uproar about the Omaha streetcar project, is economic development looking to still be its main justification? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Today, David is joined by financial advisor Mike Schudel to discuss why the current tax environment may be one of the most powerful opportunities for estate planning in decades. They discuss how today’s historically high estate tax exemptions could change in the future—and why waiting to plan could cost families significantly. The conversation also covers practical strategies to help protect wealth, reduce taxes, and ensure assets are passed on exactly how you intend.

This episode dives into the economic ripple effects of the latest Middle East tensions, including how oil flows, China’s energy dependence, and global strategy are shaping the bigger picture. David also breaks down why markets historically push forward even during wartime and what current tax cuts could mean for American households. Plus, a reality check on AI—cutting through the hype to explain where the real economic impact stands today.

Today’s discussion covers several timely local and national business stories. David breaks down Omaha Steaks’ controversial decision to stop supplying local restaurants and its PR fallout, covers a regulatory overreach involving a barber-themed lounge, and celebrates Nebraska cities ranking high for work-life balance. The episode wraps with a sobering reminder from BlackRock CEO Larry Fink about retirement savings, emphasizing the importance of planning and personal financial responsibility.

What is the difference between an exchange-traded fund and a mutual fund? With my husbands’ recent passing, me being 46, and having $450,000 saved, along with having to take withdrawals, I feel lost and don’t know where to start. How can I navigate this? And what does the acronym SMART stand for, in Retire SMART? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

David is joined by CFP Blake Grimm to break down the latest Medicare updates, including rising Part B premiums and changes to prescription drug costs. They walk through what Medicare actually covers — and what it doesn’t — from dental and vision to long-term care and ambulance rides. If you’re nearing retirement or already on Medicare, this is a must-listen to avoid costly surprises.