Retire SMART Podcast

In this special episode, David sits down with DeMoine Adams, CEO of the TeamMates Mentoring Program, to talk about the power of mentorship and its long-lasting impact on students and communities. From personal stories to leadership insights, DeMoine shares how TeamMates is building hope, purpose, and vision for the next generation.

David and Chip unpack growing concerns over the Federal Reserve’s expanding role, questioning its dual mandate, ballooning balance sheet, and politically influenced interest rate decisions. They also spotlight NVIDIA’s historic dominance in the S&P 500 and discuss Trump’s wavering stance on trade policy—and what all this means for investors and business leaders alike.

In this episode, David and Chip dig into what’s driving retirees to second-guess their 401(k)s—and why a pair of Denver office buildings just sold for the price of a pack of gum. From soaring interest rates to sneaky long-term care costs, they expose the risks hiding in plain sight and share how to build a retirement plan that won’t flinch when the market does.

What’s the benefit of getting an HSA? How often show clients be meeting with their financial advisors? And with my ineligibility to withdraw from my 401(k), should I try for a hardship distribution to cover my unexpected medical expenses? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Please welcome, for the first time on our show, financial advisor Darren Worthington! David and Darren unpack the latest retirement planning pitfalls and tax policy shifts, starting with a dramatic IRS ruling that could upend Roth conversions. They explain why this matters for high-net-worth savers and how Congress may—or may not—intervene. Plus, hear why investing without a plan is like running with scissors, and how a smarter strategy can protect your retirement future.

, David and Chip share some heartwarming moments from a the recent “Night at Memorial” event, highlighting the character and generosity of several Husker players. Then, the conversation shifts to a new tax policy “torpedo” that could hit high-income earners hard, especially in blue states—along with smart strategies to avoid the hit. Plus, a look at CNBC’s top states for quality of life and business, and the latest debate around inflation, interest rates, and tariffs.

We discuss the latest tax provisions aimed at seniors, including a new $6,000 deduction that could mean little to no taxes on Social Security for many retirees. We also unpack the crypto tax changes buried in the “Big Beautiful Bill,” highlighting a key shift in how wash sale rules apply. Plus, a deep look at market patterns, the risks of an overvalued U.S. stock market, and why Gen X’s lack of retirement confidence may be justified—but not irreversible with smart planning.

What is going on with England’s banking and financial system? Will I get the same experience at the Lincoln Retire SMART office as I would at the Omaha office? And what ended up happening with the SALT tax in the Big Beautiful Bill? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

David welcomes back Josh Cheatle, Director of Wealth Management, to discuss the impact of the newly passed “Big Beautiful Bill” on tax and retirement planning. They explore new provisions affecting seniors, Roth conversions, charitable giving strategies, and state and local tax deductions—plus what these changes mean for retirees and business owners alike. With real-world examples and upcoming educational events, this conversation emphasizes the value of proactive, flexible financial planning.

We look back on a one-of-a-kind client appreciation event at Memorial Stadium, reflecting the firm’s deepening partnership with Nebraska Athletics. David and Chip also spotlight the Journey of Hope charity and dive into major updates on the economy — from job numbers and government hiring trends to tax implications of the newly passed “big beautiful bill.” Plus, a candid look at political shifts, market indicators, and what it all means for your financial future.