Retire SMART Podcast

In the world of retirement planning, what does “Rebalancing” mean? When a loved one passes down a sizeable portfolio of stocks, should I be preparing for anything now, such as unforeseen tax implications when he passes? And should I use money from my 401(k) to pay off my mortgage so I can retire debt-free? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

We welcome for the first time our resident authority on all things Medicare, financial advisor Miles Morrissey. Miles talks with David on subjects of IRMMA and why people are having a harder time deciding on what Medicare plan to go with due to the increased number of options to choose from.

David Brooks discusses the upcoming State of the Market event, featuring insights on market trends and projections, with a special appearance by financial expert Jeff Bush. David also gives insight into a few articles in relation to pivotal government economic movements and policies that have already taken place and have yet to happen.

David unpacks a few headlines from the news, such as Meta switching gears in eliminating fact-checking in order to buddy up to Trump, and the US Treasury announcing that it was “hacked” by China. Lastly, David reveals a list of popular businesses that are at risk due to issuing out debt.

Where should I look for information that I can trust regarding Medicare? Will getting remarried during my retirement blow up my retirement plan? And is it possible to have a completely tax-free retirement? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Attorney Colin Kastrick, with Kastrick law, breaks down the latest updates in state taxes, business law, and compliance requirements. He dives into the shifting regulations around business reporting activities like MCTA and FinCET, discussing their implications and recent deadline extensions. Tune in for expert insights and practical advice to keep your business ahead of legal changes.

Overregulation and inflation keep climbing upwards, particularly for California, where in some areas eggs have reached the price of $9 per dozen! The housing supply in the US has jumped to a 4-year-high, but more homes than usual sit unsold, and lastly, we’re back yet again with another round of East Coast Port Strikes. David explains the potential outcomes of these events.

David unveils what the top 75 college sports programs are worth, a new perk that Disney is offering to get more traffic into their parks, and a new addiction on the rise, of how the stock market and trading has become the new “crack cocaine”.

Do I need to find another job if my government job forces me to retire at 57 with a pension? What do I do when one financial advisor says I should retire at 60 but the another says I should work longer? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Financial advisor, and recently accolated Certified Financial Planner, Alex Murray joins as guest in today’s show. Alex and David break down a list of the top financial resolutions for 2025.