Money Matters: Retirement, Investing & AI Insights with Christopher Hensley
For over a decade, Money Matters Podcast has brought the smartest voices in retirement, investing, and financial literacy straight to listeners. Hosted by Christopher Hensley, the show features trusted experts on Texas pensions (TRS/ORP/ERS), Social Security, retirement income, behavioral finance, and AI in advice.
We’ve welcomed leading thinkers including Laurence Kotlikoff (economist & Social Security expert), Peter Cappelli (Wharton professor), Steven Kotler (bestselling author), Maria Konnikova (NYT contributor & author), Wade Pfau (retirement research), Jamie Hopkins (retirement author/educator), and more — always with one mission: help you make smarter decisions for the next 30+ years of your life.
What Money Matters Covers
- Texas pensions (TRS/ORP/ERS) & income choices
- Retirement income planning, Social Security, and tax strategy
- Investing frameworks: risk, drawdowns, total return vs. absolute return
- Behavioral finance and decision-making
- AI & financial advice workflows
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Money Matters?
A: Money Matters is a weekly show hosted by Christopher Hensley that turns complex retirement and investing topics into clear, practical guidance. We feature leading researchers, authors, and practitioners so you hear directly from the people shaping the future of money and retirement.
Q: Who is this show best for?
A: Pre-retirees and retirees—especially Texas state employees in TRS/ORP/ERS—plus professionals who want smarter, evidence-based decisions about pensions, Social Security, and retirement income. Advisors and DIY investors listen for frameworks they can apply immediately.
Q: Do you cover Texas pensions like TRS and ORP?
A: Yes. We compare TRS (defined benefit) vs. ORP (defined contribution), explain survivor options, and walk through trade-offs that can affect income for decades. Start with our Texas Pensions resources and related episodes on election choices and timing.
Q: How do you approach Social Security decisions?
A: We focus on timing, spousal/survivor benefits, taxation, and coordination with pensions and portfolio withdrawals. Episodes highlight common mistakes and the data behind better claiming strategies.
Q: Do you provide personalized financial or tax advice?
A: The show is educational. We discuss best practices and frameworks, but personal advice requires a one-on-one engagement. If you’d like help with your situation, request a consult on our Contact page.
Q: What is your stance on AI in financial planning?
A: AI is a force multiplier—not a replacement for fiduciary advice. We spotlight compliant, client-safe workflows (summaries, prep, follow-ups) that reduce busywork and improve the client experience while keeping the human in the loop.
Q: Where should new listeners start?
A: Begin with our Texas Pensions hub if you’re a state employee, or our AI & Advisors series if you’re curious about modern planning workflows. Then check the latest episodes for timely topics.