The Get Ready For The Future Show

"I’m 61 and trying to figure out the right Social Security strategy for me. What should I do to get the most out of it?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! With mortgage rates coming down, is now the right time to buy a house? Can you help me figure out if I need an annuity? How should we allocate the inheritance we just received from my wife's father? 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 8/21/2024

What is a yield curve? How is it connected to recessions and stock market performance? And what does any of this mean for YOU? Scott's breaking it all down in this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance! For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/yield-curve-inversion-recession-indicator-or-bull-market-signal/

"Should I start paying down my mortgage more aggressively? If I do, it would cut into my Roth and HSA contributions." We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Can you explain inflation numbers to me and how I can adjust to them? Which accounts should I draw from first if I'm about to retire? Should we cut down some retirement contributions to fund our kids' education? 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 8/14/2024

Worried about the 2024 election's impact on your investments? Scott brings surprising truths about stock market performance during election years and beyond. He's also breaking down historical data and debunking common misconceptions, with valuable insights for investors navigating political uncertainty. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/election-year-investing-stock-market-myths-busted/

I own a business that’s largely online. What would you suggest in the planning process for a smooth transition or sale of the business if I retire or pass away? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show with a special guest, Attorney Chris Rippy from Rippy, Stepps & Associates in Conway! Can you help me understand how my beneficiaries will inherit my retirement accounts? What should I consider if my adult child is going to inherit $300k, but is financially irresponsible What's a tax-efficient way to donate assets to a charity when I die? 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 8/7/2024

Dive into this week's rollercoaster ride on Wall Street! Scott Inman breaks down the recent market volatility, explaining why panic selling can be your worst enemy. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/wall-streets-wild-ride-why-panic-selling-could-cost-you/

I want to start a business in my “retirement.” Where should I start and what are some protections I need in place to keep my retirement assets safe? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show!  Where should I contribute more if I just got a significant raise? My financial advisor suggests investing 20% of my assets in an annuity - is that a good idea? As a single dad of two teenagers, how do I know if I'm saving enough? 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 7/31/2024

Dive into the latest housing market trends with Scott Inman in this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance. Discover how the South has dominated home sales for 16 years and why the Great Reshuffle might be ending. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/housing-market-shift-is-the-southern-boom-cooling-off/

I'm 37 and plan to retire early in 8 years. Can I do that, and work part-time, when I get my pension? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! How do we know when we can spend a little more versus being more conservative with our hard-earned money in retirement? What should I do with an inheritance that I want to grow, but also access before retirement? At 42 and just starting investing, what are some ways I can try and catch up to where I should be? 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 7/24/2024

Dive into the latest investment trends of 2024 in this quick financial update. Scott takes a look at where billions are flowing in the stock and bond markets with insights on market movements, sector rotations, and potential impacts of Fed rate cuts.

My wife and I have a stereotypical 60/40 split. Are we “safe” enough? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! ✅ Should I be worried about a recession after the election? ✅ Are there any tax-efficient strategies for transferring ownership of my business when I retire? ✅ Is $1M enough to retire comfortably with recent soaring inflation? All this straight talk and more LIVE, Wednesday at 11:30!🎙️ - ❓ Have your own questions? Call or text us at 501.381.5228 or email [email protected]. We're here to help you navigate the journey to true financial independence. See you there! Originally aired 07/17/2024

In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, John dives into how past Presidential Elections can affect the Stock Market. Can you really prepare yourself based on who wins? 

Do you recommend prioritizing maxing out both our IRAs before making contributions to a brokerage account? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Can I comfortably retire with $800k in my 401(k) and Social Security? How does government spending play into inflation? What advice can I give my adult children who are receiving a sizeable inheritance? 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 7/10/2024

In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott dives into LPL Research's Mid-Year Market Outlook and explores the surprising link between home refinancing and consumer spending that may have prevented a recession.  For charts and more episode information, visit https://getreadyforthefuture.com/housing-market-secrets-how-refinancing-saved-the-economy/

I’m 57 and have had some health scares lately and I'm thinking: what kind of options do I have for healthcare in retirement? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! How can I leave money to my kids without burdening them with taxes? My wife and I are in our late 40s: should we sit down with an advisor? 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 7/3/2024

We're keeping it simple this week on the Fastest Four with a special Independence Day message from Scott Inman.

My husband and I have $200,000 in a high-yield savings account: are we beating inflation? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show!  What’s the best thing for me to do with my money after selling shares of my business? My wife and I are retired with $1.2 million: should we claim Social Security as late as possible? I have some decent savings and investments, but should I pay off my mortgage before I retire in 10 years? 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 6/26/2024

Worried about investing at stock market all-time highs? Don't be! In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down why market peaks aren't as scary as you might think.

I'm 54 with $690,000 saved for retirement. Am I on track to retire at 62? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show!  I want to get as much as possible out of Social Security – how do I maximize my benefit? Gold is always a big talking point, but what about copper? Should we downsize our house before we retire?  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 6/19/2024

Is Generation X facing a retirement nightmare? Join John Shrewsbury in this week's Fastest Four as he breaks down the shocking stats on Gen X's retirement savings, healthcare concerns, and financial challenges.

I’m planning to retire next year, but I’m not sure how to adjust my investments as I get ready to retire. What changes should I make to my strategy? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Do I need a will, a trust, or both? Is it OK for me to save money in a money market account for a home purchase down payment in 5 years? In the current environment, should I keep some extra money in cash or should I look at something like a bond 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 6/12/2024

In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott's breaking down May's latest inflation numbers and what they mean for the economy.

How do I help my 20-year-old determine how much to contribute now, what to invest in, and when to talk to a financial advisor? We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show!  Are annuities something I should consider to help provide lifetime income? What do I need to do if I want to retire at 55, but also want to travel and volunteer in retirement? As a firefighter, how much income should I plan for in addition to my pension?  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 6/5/2024

Smart Asset has a new study out detailing where retirees live on the most income in the US and the results are surprising! Scott breaks down the details into what you need to know in this week's Fastest Four.

How do you think the outcome of the election will impact the markets? Who does the market want to win? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions!  What impact do you see the US debt having on our investments? How do you tell if inflation is really coming down when I'm not feeling it in my bank account? How can I minimize taxes down the line if I'm worried, especially depending on the election? 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 5/29/2024

We're celebrating National 529 Day in this week's Fastest Four! Learn about how to: set up a 529 account invest for tax-free growth make tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses enjoy state tax deductions  Get the inside scoop on 529 plans and start saving today!

What do you think about Roth vs traditional benefits when you have a sizeable pension?  On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions! What should we consider if we want to move out of state when we retire? With a state pension, should I be more aggressive with my 457 investments? Does it make sense to alter investment location strategies to plan for the possibility of forced 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 5/22/2024

Are you on track for a comfortable retirement, or just settling for the average savings? In this week's Fastest Four, Scott breaks down the latest retirement savings statistics and why aiming for "average" is a surefire way to fall short. 

I'm 62 and want to retire, but my wife wants to delay taking Social Security - what are the risks and benefits? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions What are the best available options to retire if I'm self-employed? Does it hinder me to invest in Target Date Funds? Should I start a business to help keep track of my side gigs? 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 5/15/2024

Planning for a long life and not getting it is better than not planning for it and getting it! Scott explores planning for longevity risk on this episode of the Fastest Four Minutes in Finance! 

I love my job and want to keep working, but my wife wants to retire. Can she go ahead and do that while I keep working? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions! How do you determine your contribution rate if your income is variable? If I got an inheritance, should I pay down house debt or invest more in retirement? What should I do if I have to take RMDs, but don't need the money yet?  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 5/8/2024

The SECURE Acts have paved the way for annuities to be offered in employer retirement plans, and surveys show that American workers are interested in investing in them. In this week's Fastest Four, Scott explores the latest trends in annuity sales and the growing demand for guaranteed lifetime income, especially among pre-retirees. But also the complexities of annuities and why it's important to work with a financial advisor to determine if an annuity is even right for you.

How can I prevent my money from getting taxed again as added income? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions! Will selling my business be enough to fund my retirement? How can I better understand my risk tolerance? How do we know if it's okay to retire early? 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 5/1/2024

Is the famous "Sell in May and Go Away" investing strategy worth following? Scott's taking a look at the historical performance of the markets in the May-October period in this week's Fastest Four and the question, "Is timing the markets like this a wise investment strategy?"

In what order should we draw down accounts prior to Social Security and after work? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions!  We are wondering how to decide which account to fund more? 401(k) or Roth IRA? What are your thoughts on Tax Rates and Standard Deductions changing in 2026? I'm nearing age 55 and am trying to decide if should I start paying down my mortgage more aggressively?  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 4/24/2024

In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, discover how robust earnings growth continues to drive the stock market's performance, defying fears over interest rates, inflation, and geopolitical instability. 

Do I need to max out catch-up contributions, or will I be okay holding steady with my normal contributions? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions! Would it be good for my savings to retire but keep working maybe part-time? Would I be ok in retirement if the only thing I do is max out my Roth IRA every year moving forward? I'm retired now and my wife will be next year. What’s the best withdrawal strategy for us?  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 4/17/2024

Investing in stocks is a rollercoaster ride, and April's market turmoil serves as a timely reminder that pullbacks are inevitable. In this week's Fastest Four, Scott's drawing wisdom from market strategist Ryan Detrick as he explores the historical data that proves significant pullbacks are not only common but expected in an average year. 

I'm thinking about retiring next year, so what should I do before I leave work? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions!  When should I claim Social Security? As early as possible? What should I ask when meeting a financial advisor? And what should I watch out for? Is it a smart play to invest in Variable Universal Life? 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 4/10/2024

Inflation data for March sparked alarming headlines, but is it really as bad as it seems? In this Fastest Four, learn why the 0.4% monthly increase and 3.5% annual inflation rate aren't drastically higher than expectations!

If I received a decent chunk of money, such as $25,000, what would be the most efficient way to invest? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions! What are your thoughts on gold IRAs? What should we do about taking care of a parent who's in retirement when we want to retire in our mid-50s? How should I invest extra cash I'm likely to use in the next 10 years? 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 4/3/2024

In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, get ready to maximize your retirement savings with last-minute IRA contributions before the 2023 tax filing deadline on April 15th. Whether you're a high earner or have a spouse with earned income, Scott guides you through the strategies to supercharge your retirement savings while potentially reducing your tax burden.

Should I be worried about a housing crash in 2024? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions!  I inherited $350k in checking accounts - do I have to pay taxes on that? At 62 and $1 million in a 401(k), should I be converting that to a Roth IRA? Do I need to invest more if my government pension looks like it would meet my retirement needs? 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 3/27/2024

In this episode of The Fastest Four, Scott discusses the futility of relying solely on economic predictions for investment decisions. He highlights how even amid dire predictions during the pandemic, the S&P 500 Index has delivered a remarkable 133.9% cumulative return since March 2020. Learn why keeping a cool head and sticking to your investment strategy can help you navigate market fluctuations and reach your financial objectives, regardless of predictions.

What should be our strategy so my husband and I can travel in retirement, live comfortably, and leave a good sum to kids and grandkids? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions! I know LTC (long-term care) coverage is expensive, but should I get it anyway? What's the difference between a fixed and variable annuity? What are the parameters for backdoor Roth contributions? 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 3/20/2024 Disclosures: All investing involves risk including loss of principal. No strategy assures success or protects against loss. Diversification does not protect against market risk. Fixed and Variable annuities are suitable for long-term investing, such as retirement investing.  Gains from tax-deferred investments are taxable as ordinary income upon withdrawal. Guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of the issuing company. Withdrawals made prior to age 59 ½ are subject to a 10% IRS penalty tax and surrender charges may apply.  Variable annuities are subject to market risk and may lose value. Riders are additional guarantee options that are available to an annuity or life insurance contract holder. While some riders are part of an existing contract, many others may carry additional fees, charges and restrictions, and the policy holder should review their contract carefully before purchasing.  Guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Contributions to a Roth vehicle offer tax deferral on any earnings in that account. Qualified withdrawals of earnings from the account are tax-free. Withdrawals of earnings prior to age 59 ½ or prior to the account being opened for 5 years, whichever is later, may result in a 10% IRS penalty tax. Limitations and restrictions may apply.

Is the US stock market more "top-heavy" than in a century? With the 10 largest stocks comprising 33% of the S&P 500's value, some analysts predict a major correction, though historical data suggests concentrated markets often lead to strong returns. Don't miss these expert insights on reading the top-heavy market signals, avoiding emotional investing mistakes, and staying on track toward financial independence through bull and bear markets. 

How could a part-time job or side gig impact my retirement plan? On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions! When should I look at when claiming Social Security? How do I know if I'm saving enough? I thought I was okay, but what if there's another big market 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 3/13/2024

In this week's Fastest Four, we explore the fascinating relationship between the stock market and presidential elections. Discover how the market typically performs during election years, whether the incumbent's party matters, and what the current market trends suggest about the upcoming Biden-Trump rematch. Learn valuable insights from historical data, including the impact of Super Tuesday results and how the market has reacted to each candidate's probability of winning. Don't miss this insightful analysis on navigating your investments during this pivotal election year. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions for your financial future. 

I'm 51 and have $750k with an advisor, but I don't really have a plan and I'm worried I don't have enough! On this week's Get Ready For The Future Show, we're answering YOUR questions!  I have NO idea where I stand when it comes to retirement. How do I get things in order and figure that out?  After inheriting nearly a million dollars in an IRA, do you have advice for taxes and getting it out in 10 years? 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 3/6/2024

Are you concerned about the future of Social Security and whether it will be available for you in retirement? We've got insights on the "You Earned It, You Keep It Act" – a proposed legislation to eliminate federal taxes on Social Security benefits.