The Get Ready For The Future Show

"How should I balance assets between tax-deferred, tax-free, and taxable accounts to get me the best outcome for my retirement income?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I’m 57 and recently inherited $400k. What do I do with my inheritance? Should I give up my $200K salary job to spend time with my wife? Will we be okay financially if we both retire now? What strategies can minimize the tax impact of RMDs? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 2/12/2025

Analyzing the latest inflation trends and their effects on the stock market, interest rates, and consumer spending. Get insightful analysis on price trends, wage growth, and economic outlook in just 4 minutes. From CPI fluctuations to Federal Reserve rate cut expectations, understand what rising costs mean for your investments and daily finances. Featuring data from the Brookings Institution and USA Today on wage-inflation comparisons and consumer sentiment. #StockMarket #Tariffs #Trading #Finance #Investing #WallStreet #TrumpTariffs #MarketAnalysis

"I'm 52 with $2 million. Should I convert some of my traditional IRA/401(k) to Roth accounts now?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! How should I brace myself financially for a potential downturn? If I start earning self-employment income, what tax-advantaged retirement options become available? What’s your opinion on the real estate sector right now? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 2/5/2025

Breaking down Trump's latest tariff announcements targeting Canada, Mexico, and China, and their impact on the NASDAQ. Get insightful analysis on potential consumer costs, market volatility, and long-term economic implications. From tech stocks to trade negotiations, understand what these tariffs mean for your investments in just 4 minutes. Featuring insights from LPL Research on market reactions and future trade policy expectations.

A major market sell-off early in the week was triggered by Chinese firm Deep Seek’s AI report, which suggested they were advancing AI implementation at a much lower cost than expected. This raised concerns that American tech companies, which have already invested heavily in AI, might struggle to maintain their competitive edge, causing a sharp drop in the NASDAQ before it rebounded. Analysts later viewed the report more positively, but LPL Research cautioned that the AI sector’s high valuations might need reassessment. As tech stocks dominate market performance, LPL suggests a potential shift where other sectors could start gaining momentum.   If you want to watch the Video version, check out our YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@thefastestfour

"I’m 62 and thinking about making sure my kids and grandkids are taken care of after I’m gone. How can I ensure that my estate plan keeps my wealth intact for them?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! How should I approach the financial sector in light of recent banking sector volatility and the rise of fintech companies? How can I value my current job's wages against a possible pension with a new job? I’m 63 and just inherited about $450,000. How do I make sure this money lasts and I’m making the smartest move with it? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 1/29/2025

"My husband and I are concerned about healthcare costs in retirement. What steps should we take now to be sure we’re okay in retirement?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What do I need to know when trying to decide to convert my current pre-tax money over to a Roth option? How do you recommend preparing for short-term and medium-term savings needs? How should my HSA funds be invested? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 1/22/2025

Exclusive breakdown of President Trump's economic strategy for 2025! Discover how immigration policies, potential tariffs, energy deregulation, and tax cuts could transform the U.S. economy. Insights from top economists at LPL and First Trust Advisors reveal the potential market impacts. Consumer confidence is rising, and the markets are watching closely. Watch now to understand the economic landscape ahead! For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/trumps-economic-comeback/

"Should I self insure or should I get some sort of policy? If I go with a policy, what kind should I look at?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Does it make sense for my wealthy mother, a recent widow, to take out a significant life-insurance policy? I’m 65 and have $3.7 million. How much should I realistically spend on a house? I’m 43 and worried I’ve waited too long to retire comfortably. Advice? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 1/15/2025

Latest CPI report reveals surprising trends: December inflation at 2.9% YoY, with core CPI steady at 3.3%. Investors remain cautious. Join Scott Inman for insights on: Goods vs. services inflation contrast Significance of the Fed’s 2% target Consumer behavior driving service sector prices Inflation’s impact on your financial future Discover why inflation data still shapes markets in 2025, beyond the 2022 peak, and learn the real story behind the numbers and their personal economic significance. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/inflation-still-keeps-wall-street-up-at-night/

"What do you recommend if I'm starting my own business, but don't want to fall behind in retirement planning?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What are your predictions for the economy for this upcoming year? How do I know when to take Social Security?  I recently reached $1 million across my investments. What’s the next step for me? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 1/8/2025

Can the S&P 500’s winning streak continue in 2025? Wall Street predicts a 12% gain, but history shows market experts are often wrong. In this week’s Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott explains: Wall Street’s ambitious 2025 price targets The surprising truth about back-to-back 20% market gains Why analyst predictions have missed the mark 90% of the time since 2016 The secret to successful long-term investing Discover why short-term predictions don’t matter and learn how long-term investment strategies can help you reach your financial goals. Perfect for investors after two consecutive years of 20% returns.  For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/why-experts-are-wrong/

Happy New Year from the Get Ready for the Future Show! As we kick off the new year, we're answering your best and most popular questions of 2024! And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 1/1/2025

In this Fastest Four, Scott’s bringing the latest 2025 economic and market forecasts from LPL Research. Learn why strategists predict GDP growth slowing, unemployment rising, and moderate stock returns after 2 impressive years. Discover inflation trends, interest rate expectations, and historical insights into third-year bull markets. Ideal for quick, data-driven market insights. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/2025-market-outlook-will-stocks-keep-soaring/

Merry Christmas from the Get Ready for the Future Show! As we get ready to wrap up the year, we're answering your best and most popular questions of 2024! And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 12/25/2024

In this week’s Fastest Four, we’ll dive into the latest rules for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and explore how Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) can help you lighten your tax load. We’ll cover new RMD age requirements, ways to avoid costly penalties, and the limits for QCD in 2024-2025. Plus, we’ll share some smart retirement withdrawal strategies. This episode is perfect for retirees and those approaching RMD age.  And for charts and more episode info, head over to: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/rmd-and-qcd-explained/

"I’m trying to prepare for the new year well. What’s the best order of investing for 2025?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What kind of estate planning do I need to do to be sure all my stuff is in order before the new year if possible? Should I claim Social Security early and go ahead and get my benefit or should I delay? I’m planning to retire next year. What steps should I take to make sure I don’t outspend my budget? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 12/18/2024

With the markets pulling back last week, investors are left wondering: will the annual Santa Claus rally show up this year? John Shrewsbury, filling in for Scott Inman, breaks down market trends, small business optimism, and a possible bear case as we approach 2025. And for charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/will-the-santa-claus-rally-save-the-markets/

"Which is best: a will or trust for man and wife with less than $2 million net worth with three children?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What’s your opinion of the Arkansas Public Employee Retirement System? I’m 65, retired and own my home. What should I do with $150,000 I want to invest? With interest rates stabilizing, should I consider adjusting my investment strategy? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 12/11/2024

Discover the surprising truth about consumer spending in America! In this Fastest Four, Scott's breaking down:  - The age group spending nearly $100,000 annually  - The massive $84 trillion "Great Wealth Transfer" coming soon  - How top income earners control consumer spending  - Why workers are saving more and feeling financially confident Key insights from LPL Research's Outlook 2025 reveal the hidden economic trends shaping America's financial future. And for charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/spending-secrets-revealed/

"What do I need to do to save more and be sure I have the retirement I want?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What’s the best strategy for transitioning from my current career to full retirement? I’m 39 and saving 18% of my income for retirement between my employer plan and a Roth IRA. Is that enough? If we want to travel in retirement, how can we plan for price increases over time? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 12/4/2024

Is there a Santa Clause rally coming? In this week's Fastest Four, Scott breaks down historical stock performance, revealing why December might just be your portfolio's best holiday gift. And for charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/santa-claus-rally-2024/

"My husband and I have $3.2 million in retirement savings. At this rate, would the 4% rule be an okay strategy for us?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What are your thoughts about the future of interest rates and how should this affect my investment strategy? With potential tax changes coming after the election, should I be adjusting my tax planning or retirement withdrawal strategy? What are your thoughts about how I should divvy up the money from a recent inheritance to my kids? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 11/27/2024

What’s in store for taxes under a Trump administration? From Social Security changes to the extension of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, we break down what could impact your finances over the next four years. Will taxes on Social Security be eliminated? Can government spending be reduced enough to fund new tax cuts? Join John Shrewsbury as he explores these pressing questions and what they mean for your financial independence. And for charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/trumps-tax-promises/

"How do I know when I've saved enough, and how do I keep my money from diminishing in retirement if inflation keeps its pace?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! My wife hired an advisor. Should I join her to keep our plans in sync? With recent economic growth, should I be more aggressive with my investments now? If consumer spending starts to decline unexpectedly, how will that affect my retirement? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 11/20/2024

Discover the ultimate retirement destinations for 2025 as Scott breaks down U.S. News and World Report's updated rankings. The results may surprise you! Whether you're planning for retirement or just curious about the best places to live, this video is your ultimate guide to finding your perfect retirement paradise! Check out the full report here: https://realestate.usnews.com/places/rankings/best-places-to-retire And for charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/top-10-best-retirement-cities-in-2025/

"My wife and I are worried about potential health issues in retirement, so should I cut back on contributions to fund a Long-Term Care policy or contribute more and self-insure?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! How can I consolidate/simplify my accounts without creating a major tax event? I've got a few mutual funds that are growth and aggressive growth. Should I diversify? What investments should I focus on to maintain growth and reduce risk in a potential economic downturn? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 11/13/2024

Big news for retirement savers: The SECURE Act 2.0 is bringing massive changes to catch-up contributions in 2025! In this week's Fastest Four, discover how workers aged 60-63 can supercharge their retirement savings with an extra $11,250 in catch-up contributions.  Whether you're playing catch-up or planning ahead, learn how these new contribution limits could transform your retirement strategy! For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/401k-game-changer-catch-up-strategy-unlocked-for-2025/

"I'm 67 and the bulk of my $3 million is invested in stocks. How should I adjust my investments before retiring next year?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! How should we invest if we know we will help care for my wife's parents in their retirement? How do I know if I have enough life insurance coverage for me and my spouse? What's a tax-efficient way for me to leave a good amount to my grandchildren? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 11/6/2024

In this week's Fastest Four, Scott dives into the market's enthusiastic response to the recent election results. Learn how managing your emotions is just as crucial post-election as it was pre-election and the importance of sticking to your long-term investment strategy, even in the face of political changes. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/navigating-the-post-election-market-surge-key-insights-for-investors/

"My partner and I have $4.75 million saved, earn $250,000 a year, and only spend about half that. When can I quit working?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show!  With my husband's pension and the 17% we've been investing, is that enough? Do I need a trust if I'm retired and divorced with two adult children? With many seniors getting scammed, how do you protect your clients? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Visit the Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov) for more information about how to protect yourself against cybercrime and to submit a complaint if you or someone you know has been targeted. Originally aired 10/30/2024

Don't let politics destroy your investment strategy! In this episode of the Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott takes a look at historical stock market performance across ALL presidential administrations, how the U.S. economy grows regardless of who's in the White House, and why staying invested matters more than political allegiance. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/stock-market-secrets-how-your-political-bias-could-cost-you-millions/

"I’m 55 and I’ve got about $450,000 in retirement assets so far. What steps should I take now to ensure a comfortable retirement at 64?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Which sectors do you believe will be most impacted by the election results? Would you recommend I pay off debt before getting into rental properties? What if I plan on retiring now, before the year on my target date fund? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 10/23/2024

A new study reveals a massive disconnect between what financial advisors claim they're discussing and what clients are actually hearing about retirement planning. In this week's Fastest Four, Scott's breaking it down! For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/the-shocking-truth-about-retirement-income-planning/  

"I realized my advisor's only strategy is some version of the 4% rule. How do I know if I'll run out of money?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What is your outlook on interest rates? At 62, should I keep my Universal Life Insurance policy? With a lot of seniors getting scammed, how do you protect your clients? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 10/16/2024

In this week's Fastest Four, discover why the U.S. retirement system scored a mediocre C+ in the 2024 Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index. Scott takes a look at the rankings and how to take control of your retirement so you can aim for an A+! For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/us-retirement-grade-c/

"I own a small business. Can you help me decide what next steps to take to set myself up for retirement or set my family up for the future" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What do you recommend if I'm 5 years out from retirement? I don’t like to live by a strict budget. Will I have to do that in retirement? How do I pick the right Medicare supplement? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 10/9/2024

In this week's Fastest Four, Scott's breaking down an important issue BOTH presidential candidates are ignoring: the looming $35 trillion of U.S. debt. And more importantly, what it means for YOU and your financial independence. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/americas-debt-crisis-explained/  

"I’ve been single all my life and I’m heading into retirement next year. What are some things I should consider about retirement that may be different for me as a single woman?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! As the Fed lowers rates, how does this affect my overall financial independence? My dad recently passed away and my mom is struggling with what to do financially. Should she invest the life insurance money? With a new baby on the way and college costs increasing, how much should I put in a 529? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 10/2/2024

With the last few years of inflation, consumer spending has still been strong. But how?! In this Fastest Four, Scott's taking a look at how rising personal wealth has been fueling the economy and how it might be affecting YOUR economy. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/wealth-surge-fuels-economy/

"With the election, I’m wondering if I should start to diversify before things get too dicey?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show!  Does cashing out an Inherited IRA count as income against my Roth IRA income limits? My wife and I are struggling to decide when we should retire. Can you give us some pointers?  And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 9/25/2024

After a strong three quarters this year, the S&P500 is up 20% year-to-date with 39 all-time highs in 2024. But what does that mean for the end of the year? Scott's taking a look at September's surprising strength and what historical data suggests we could look forward to in the final quarter of 2024! For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/2024-stock-market-soars-will-q4-continue-the-bull-run/

"I’ve heard a lot of friends talking about RILAs. Can you explain what they are and how I would know if I need one?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show!  I was planning to retire at the end of the year but lost my husband unexpectedly. Can I still retire? What advice would you give someone wanting to enter the financial planning industry? Does cashing out an Inherited IRA count as income against my Roth IRA income limits?  And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 9/18/2024

Discover why investors are flocking to defensive stocks in this week's Fastest Four! Scott breaks down the recent market shift from growth to defensive sectors like consumer staples, utilities, and healthcare. And learn how this rotation might signal economic changes and impact your investment strategy. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/market-shift-alert-why-defensive-stocks-are-suddenly-outperforming/

"Now that we're eligible again for a Roth IRA, should we fund that instead of the Roth 401k?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What should I do with a tax-free lump sum I'll be receiving? Should I start diversifying by buying bonds if I'm 5 years out from retirement? Should I up my life insurance policy? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 9/11/2024

Don't let election year rhetoric cloud your financial judgment. In this week's Fastest Four, Scott's taking a look at the surprising relationship between politics and economic perception and how political bias can skew our view of the economy, potentially impacting investment decisions.

"I’m 55 and planning to retire early. What do I need to be aware of to try to decrease the amount of taxes I have to pay?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Can you retire comfortably at 60 with $1M? What are the benefits of a spousal IRA? I’m worried about a recession. Am I too risky right now? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]!   Originally aired 9/4/2024

The Federal Reserve is likely to cut interest rates. But what does that mean for you? Scott's diving into some historical data in this episode, and taking a look at how interest rate cuts have affected stock and bond performance.

"My wife and I both have pensions. Can we do anything now to minimize the tax burden in retirement?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show!  At what age should one start to consider Roth conversions from retirement accounts? How should we invest if interest rates fall?  Is it wise to save up enough cash to pay for a rental property for diversification? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to [email protected]! Originally aired 8/28/2024

In this week's Fastest Four, Scott's diving into a recent survey about how Americans are approaching their Social Security benefits: Why 3 out of 4 Americans understand delayed benefits but only 1 in 10 plan to wait The most popular age for claiming Social Security (hint: it's not what you think!) Top reasons people are claiming early - including fears about Social Security's future The BIGGEST mistake 88% of Americans are making with retirement income planning