Retire SMART Podcast

What is David’s take on the “Oracle of Omaha” officially announcing his retirement at the end of 2025? And with Congress back in session, what are the prospects for the Trump tax cuts of 2017 being extended or made permanent? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Nebraska’s inheritance tax may finally be changing—estate planning attorney Colin Kastrick, with Kastrick Law, joins us to break down the latest proposal, what it means for beneficiaries, and why getting your documents right matters more than ever, especially in blended families."

On today’s episode, David shares exciting news: Retire SMART is now an official sponsor of Nebraska Cornhusker Athletics. We also look at April's surprising job numbers, discuss concerning jobless claims data, and revisit Warren Buffett’s historic stance on trade deficits in light of current tariff debates. Plus, China's economic struggles and what it all means for investors.

David breaks down some alarming global economic shifts—from Germany’s deepest recession since reunification to a dramatic slowdown in global trade. He dives into why Europe is becoming nearly “un-investable,” how political leanings are impacting economic growth, and what it means when container ships from China and American freight volumes hit the brakes. Plus, hear how Apple’s pivot to India signals a broader shift in global manufacturing—and what it all means for your financial future.

Does Medicare cover Long-term care? If I’m not working during my retirement, do I still have income taxes? And how long has David been a financial advisor? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

David brings back financial advisor Tim Herrick to help break down the recent wave of federal layoffs—potentially impacting over 100,000 government employees—and what it means for those navigating pensions and retirement planning. They discuss the pros and cons of the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), highlight common pitfalls with TSP distributions, and explore smarter strategies like IRA rollovers and Roth conversions to help federal employees gain more control and flexibility in retirement.

Tariffs are back in the headlines—but are they really just bad news? We break down the economic pros and cons, from rising consumer costs to a surprising boost in federal revenue. We’ll also dig into the political messaging, the timing, and what all this means for investors, retirees, and smart planners alike. It’s a conversation that cuts through the noise.

David breaks down the growing disconnect between Jerome Powell’s optimistic economic outlook and the mounting signs of a slowdown, including a surge in announced job cuts and softening real estate prices. He discusses the ripple effects of declining cash buyers, rising housing vacancies, and what it all could mean for interest rates, inflation, and the housing market in the months ahead.

Is 72 the mandatory age for 401(k) withdrawal rules, or has it changed? What proactive moves is David making with his clients right now, while my current advisor reminds me to simply stay the course? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

David welcomes back Derek Flores from Senior Asset Solutions to discuss smart spend-down strategies for retirees and families facing long-term care costs. They discuss protecting assets from nursing home expenses, Medicaid planning, and an upcoming educational class covering Medicaid-compliant annuities, the five-year look-back rule, and more. Whether you're pre-planning or in crisis mode, stay tuned for valuable insights for preserving your legacy.