The Get Ready For The Future Show

"I'm 60 and feel paralyzed every time the market drops. I've missed several rebounds because I waited too long. How do I stop letting fear run my portfolio?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 64 and financially ready to retire, but I just can't bring myself to stop working. How do you know when it's really time to step away? I'm 63 and just retired. I'm holding off on Social Security until 67. What's the best way to generate income in those four years without draining my retirement accounts too fast? Our daughter is 28 and still needs help with rent occasionally. We're both 60 and trying to stay on track for retirement. How do we know when to say no? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 11/5/2025

The S&P 500 has hit two all-time highs in the past two months — and it's surged 85% since October 2022. That kind of run has many investors wondering: Is a pullback coming soon? In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down key historical data showing why a year-end rally is actually the most likely outcome — not a crash. Since 1950, when the S&P 500 was up more than 10% through October, it kept rising in 30 out of 33 years, averaging another 4.8% gain before December closed. Even more striking — when it was up over 16% by the end of October, it finished higher 19 out of 19 times. That means if the market doesn't rise from here, it would be unprecedented in history.

"My spouse and I disagree on how much we need to retire. I think we're fine with $1 million, she's convinced we need $2 million. Who's right — and how do we find out?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 66 and planning to downsize next year. We'll have about $200,000 left over after the move. Should we invest it or use it to generate income? I'm 61 and recently inherited an IRA from my brother. I've heard the rules are different for inherited IRAs now — what do I need to know? We're both 56 and still carrying a small mortgage and two car payments. Should we prioritize paying those off before retirement, or just keep the payments and keep investing? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired10/29/2025

Social Security checks are getting a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment in 2026 — but don't get too excited. That's only about $56 more per month for the average retiree. The problem? Healthcare costs are climbing faster than inflation, and Medicare premiums are expected to jump 11.6%, eating away nearly half of that “raise.” In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman explains why your Social Security increase won't go as far as you think — and what you can do to keep your retirement income ahead of rising costs. Why COLA increases aren't keeping up with real expenses How Medicare and inflation erode your buying power Smart strategies to protect and grow your income in retirement

"I'm 64 and retiring soon. I have the option to take a lump sum from my pension or monthly payments for life. How do I evaluate which one is better for us?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! We're 67 and 65 and just paid off our house. We've heard that having a trust avoids probate, but our estate isn't that complicated. How do we know if a trust is worth the cost? We're in our early 60s and plan to sell a rental property in a few years. Should we be thinking about capital gains tax planning now, or wait until we're ready to sell? I'm 61 and recently divorced. I'm keeping the house, but it's still got a mortgage, and I have about $500,000 in retirement accounts. How do I rebuild my plan now that I'm on my own? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired10/22/2025

The U.S. national debt just crossed $38 trillion — up $3 trillion in only 12 months. What does that mean for interest rates, inflation, and your retirement savings? In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the real impact of America's exploding debt and why it's more than just a Washington headline. You'll learn: Why economists say the debt-to-GDP ratio matters more than the total number How rising interest costs threaten programs like Social Security Why an unchecked debt could weaken the U.S. dollar and your long-term wealth Don't miss this quick breakdown of one of the biggest financial threats facing America's future — and what it could mean for yours.

"I'm 65 and plan to work a few more years. I've got a good amount saved, but I've never actually thought through how I'll turn that into income. Where do I even start?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I've always contributed to a traditional 401(k), but my employer just added a Roth option. Should I switch, and if so, how much? We're in our 50s and want to help our grandchild with college in the future. What's the best way to do that without messing up our own retirement? We created a will when our kids were little, but now they're in their 30s and we haven't updated anything. We're both in our mid-60s. How often should estate plans be reviewed, and what needs to change 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired10/15/2025

A new IMF report says President Trump's tariffs haven't hit the U.S. economy as hard as expected — and growth might even be stronger than feared. In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the numbers: GDP growth projections: 2% in 2025 and 2.1% in 2026 Inflation is cooling faster than expected New trade deals may be offsetting tariff pressure But the risk isn't gone — if companies start passing more costs to consumers, that could change fast. Scott explains what this means for investors, why market volatility will likely continue, and why staying invested for the long-term is still the smartest move.

"I'm 62, just retired, and don't plan to take Social Security until 67. Should I be converting some of my IRA to a Roth during these lower-income years?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! We're 70 and have three adult children. One is financially responsible, the other two—not so much. Can we structure our estate so that they're not getting a lump sum all at once? We're 68 and recently retired. With all the market ups and downs lately, we're nervous. Should we move more into cash, or is that just reacting emotionally? I'm 60 and managing most of our finances online — banking, investments, even our family photos. Should digital assets be part of our estate plan, and if so, how do we do 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 10/8/2025

Are we living through another stock market bubble? With headlines warning of “frothy markets” and “sky-high valuations,” it's easy to feel like we've seen this movie before. But according to LPL Research, today's AI-driven rally looks very different from the dot-com boom of the 1990s. In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down: How the AI revolution compares to the internet craze of the 90s Why today's valuations, while high, are supported by stronger profits and real cash flow What history teaches us about staying disciplined through market highs The bottom line? Fear should never drive your investment decisions. A diversified portfolio and a written financial plan are your best defenses against market noise.

"I'm 54 and getting serious about retirement planning. We've got about $500,000 saved, but no clear budget for what retirement will actually cost us. How do we figure that out?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I keep hearing about rebalancing your portfolio, but I don't really understand what that means or when I'm supposed to do it. Can you explain? I'm 47 and just changed jobs. I rolled over my 401(k), but my new employer doesn't offer a match. Should I still use their plan or just go all-in on a Roth IRA? We're in our early 60s and thinking about retiring next year, but we've never worked with a financial advisor. What should we be looking for, and how do we know who's actually qualified? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 10/1/2025

A government shutdown began on October 1st, and while markets are still sitting at all-time highs, the impact could grow the longer it drags on. In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down: Why Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits keep flowing (but with possible delays) How a prolonged shutdown could trigger market volatility and impact Federal Reserve decisions The real economic cost — from furloughed workers missing paychecks to GDP shrinking Bottom line: short-term uncertainty can rattle investors, but sticking to your financial independence plan is key.

"My wife wants to retire next year at 62, but I'd like to keep working until 68. What's the best way to plan income and investments with two different timelines?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 60 and have both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA. When the time comes, how do I know which one to withdraw from first? I'm 66 and thinking about gifting money to our adult kids now, instead of leaving it to them later. Are there smart ways to do this without triggering taxes or regrets? We're both 55 and feel like we've done a decent job saving — about $600,000 so far. But we've never had an actual plan. How do we know if we're even on track? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 9/24/2025

Gold is having its “precious” moment, soaring more than 40% this year — its best run since 1979. But is it really the safe-haven hedge investors think it is? In this episode of The Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down: Why gold prices are skyrocketing (weaker dollar, Fed rate cut expectations, central bank demand) The risks of treating gold as a hedge or “can't lose” investment How gold compares to long-term stock market returns Before you rush to buy, remember: gold is speculative, volatile, and doesn't produce earnings or dividends. The bottom line? It may play a role in your portfolio, but it should never be driven by fear.

"I've got about $400,000 in an old 401(k) from a job I left years ago. Should I leave it where it is or roll it into something else now that I'm 55?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 61 and worried about inflation eating into our savings. We've got about $850,000 saved, but how do we protect our purchasing power without taking on too much risk? We're 57 and got spooked by the market last year. We moved a big chunk of money into cash. Now we're not sure when—or if—we should get back in. Did we mess up? We're 63 and have some cash in the bank that we don't need right away. Is it better to park it in a high-yield savings account or invest it for growth? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 9/17/2025

The Fed has entered the second year of its rate-cutting cycle—so what does history tell us about stock market performance from here? In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down: How the S&P 500 has historically performed in year two of rate-cutting cycles. Why the outlook for 2026 depends heavily on avoiding a recession. The mix of tailwinds (AI, productivity, fiscal stimulus) and headwinds (deficit spending, job market risks, tariff challenges) shaping the road ahead. LPL Research suggests growth could continue, but uncertainty always remains. The key? Control what you can control—stay diversified and stick to your plan for true financial independence.

"How do you handle long term care if you don't qualify for long term care? What if I'm too old? What if I have health issues to preempt me from qualifying?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 59 and recently remarried. We both have adult kids and separate finances. How do we make sure our assets are protected but still plan together for retirement? With so much of my financial life online now, how do I know if I'm really protected? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 9/10/2025

The Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates next week—possibly the first of several moves before Jerome Powell's term ends. But what does that mean for unemployment, inflation, and the stock market? In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down: Why unemployment and inflation data are pushing the Fed toward cuts How rate cuts could impact businesses, consumers, and recession risk The massive amount of cash sitting in money market funds—and what happens if it flows back into stocks Bottom line: while the Fed may be data driven, your portfolio should be plan driven. Staying invested through volatility is still the best path toward your long-term goals.* *All investing involves risk and no strategy assures success.

"I'm 58, own a small service company, and would like to retire around 65. I don't have a formal succession plan or buyer lined up. What steps should I take now to transition out without leaving value on the table?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! And we're joined by special guest Kaleigh Marsh, Employee Benefits Consultant with Gallagher, for help answering your benefits questions! I'm 51 and run a consulting business with just me and one part-time assistant. I already max out my Roth IRA, and my SEP IRA contributions vary based on income. I'd like to save more consistently—should I switch to a Solo 401(k), or consider taxable investments for more flexibility? I'm 47 and recently converted my business from sole proprietorship to an S-Corp. I'm taking a salary plus distributions, but I'm not sure I'm using the best tax strategy. What should I be thinking about from a financial planning standpoint? My wife and I are both 55 and run a family business together. Most of our net worth is tied up in the business, and we've fallen behind on personal retirement savings. How do we balance reinvesting in the business with securing our own future? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 9/3/2025

Is today's stock market priced too high? Economist Brian Wesbury, Chief Economist at First Trust Advisors, has been warning that the market is overvalued by roughly 40% based on his fair value model of the S&P 500. In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down Wesbury's analysis: Why rising Treasury yields could drag stock values lower Why First Trust has set a year-end S&P 500 target of 5,200 (a potential 19% drop) What AI, big tech, and other sectors may mean for long-term growth opportunities Bottom line: Expect volatility in the coming months, but remember—the key is to stay invested for long-term growth while working with a financial advisor to make smart adjustments along the way.

"We're 53 and thinking about buying a rental property for income in retirement. What should we watch out for before jumping in?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 59 and not in great health. Should I take Social Security early just in case, or wait and hope for the best? My husband wants to keep working part-time after retirement, mostly for the health insurance. Is that really the best reason to keep working? We're 65 and have Medicare, but we're unsure whether to stick with Original Medicare or switch to Advantage. What are the real trade-offs? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 8/27/2025

Consumer confidence just slipped to 97.4, sparking concerns about the economy. But is it time to panic—or stay the course? In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down: What the consumer confidence index really measures Why younger Americans are driving the decline How tariffs and inflation are weighing on outlooks What investors should (and shouldn't) do when headlines turn negative The bottom line: Don't let short-term fears derail your long-term strategy. A well-diversified plan is your best defense in any economy.

"We're 60 and worried we're too conservative with our investments. We've got $850,000 but very little in stocks. Is it too late to adjust our risk?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 62 and just started collecting Social Security, but I also inherited a small IRA from my sister. What are the tax implications of that inheritance? I'm 45, remarried, and have kids from a previous marriage. How do I structure my estate plan so everyone's protected fairly? We're both retiring in two years, and we're not sure whether to move our 401(k)s to IRAs or leave them where they are. What's the difference? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 8/20/2025

Generation X may be headed toward retirement unprepared. According to recent studies, Gen Xers have lower savings, higher debt, and less financial confidence than other generations. In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the numbers and shares 4 practical action steps every Gen Xer should take right now to avoid falling behind: Eliminate Debt – Why creating margin is the single biggest move you can make. Build a Real Emergency Fund – How much you actually need and why it matters. Don't Count on an Inheritance – The risks of relying on future wealth transfers. Make a Retirement Plan – How to project your savings into real income for the future. Retirement success doesn't happen by accident.

Retirement savings are front and center in Washington — and President Trump's latest 401(k) proposals could impact how you save, invest, and access your money. In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Alec Daril breaks down the three biggest potential changes: Bigger Catch-Up Contributions – Why those 50+ could save even more before retirement. Expanded Investment Choices – The opportunities and risks of a bigger 401(k) menu. Penalty-Free Withdrawals – When you might access funds early without a 10% penalty. These changes aren't law yet, but they could reshape retirement planning for millions of Americans. Learn what they mean for your strategy — and why the fundamentals of retirement success still come down to consistent saving, smart investing, and avoiding early withdrawals.

"We're 58 and have never had life insurance. Is it still worth looking into, or have we missed the boat?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! We're in our early 60s and just sold our business and netted about $1.4 million. How do we turn that into sustainable retirement income without blowing it? My spouse is risk-averse, but I'm more comfortable with market risk. How do we find a retirement strategy we can both live with? I'm 50, work in healthcare, and my employer offers a pension. How does this fit with my other savings? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 8/6/2025

The markets are moving fast—and so should your strategy. In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, John Shrewsbury breaks down seven key developments shaping the investment landscape in August 2025: Fed Rate Cut Watch – Why the next move could come in September Slowing U.S. Economy – Consumer weakness and rising delinquencies Big Tech Dominance – AI-powered earnings are lifting the S&P 500 The AI Investment Surge – Billions are transforming business productivity Tariff Tensions Return – Trade risks with India, Brazil, and Switzerland Treasury Debt Strategy – What $6 trillion in T-bills means for investors S&P 500 Technical Trends – Volatility ahead, but also opportunity

"I've been self-employed for years and never set up a formal retirement plan. At 55, is it too late to catch up — or should I just invest in a brokerage account?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! ✅ We're 57 and have a paid-off house worth $500,000, but not much in retirement savings. Should we consider a reverse mortgage later on? ✅ We're 63 and thinking about converting part of our IRA to a Roth before RMDs hit. How do we know if it's the right time? ✅ I'm 48 and earn too much to contribute to a Roth. Should I look into backdoor Roth strategies, or just focus on my 401(k)? All this straight talk and more LIVE, Wednesday at 11:30!

The U.S. economy roared back in Q2 with a surprising 3% GDP growth, but don't be too quick to celebrate. In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the mixed signals behind the headline number—from falling investment and cautious inventory spending to the lingering effects of President Trump's tariff policy. We'll unpack: - Why the 3% GDP growth may be misleading - How tariffs and private inventory drops are shaping the economic outlook - What investors and retirees should really focus on ➡️ Watch now to understand what these economic trends mean for your financial future, and why your long-term financial independence plan matters more than ever.

"We have around $900,000 saved, but most of it is in my accounts — not my spouse's. Should we try to even that out, or does it not matter come retirement?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! ✅ I'm 60 and was recently offered a consulting role that pays well but has no benefits. Should I take it and delay retirement, or walk away and enjoy life now? ✅ I'm 52 and work in tech, which is volatile. I've saved around $350,000. What's the best move if I get laid off before I'm ready to retire? ✅ My spouse wants to move closer to the grandkids, but the cost of living is higher there. We're 65 and planning to retire this year — how do we know if we can afford it? All this straight talk and more LIVE, Wednesday at 11:30!

President Trump wants Fed Chair Jerome Powell out—and markets are watching closely. In this episode of the Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the legal battle brewing, and why firing Powell may not have the impact Trump hopes. Here's what you'll learn: Whether a president can fire the Federal Reserve Chair—and under what conditions Why Trump's frustration stems from interest rate policy, not misconduct How Powell could fight back with a lawsuit Why removing Powell might not lower interest rates The potential market volatility if Trump follows through What LPL's Chief Economist says about political pressure and rate cuts

"We're 61 and 62 and just paid off our mortgage. Should we keep aggressively saving or start shifting toward preserving what we've already built?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I've got $500,000 in a 401(k), but I'm burned out and considering a career break. I'm 53 — can I step away for a while without wrecking my future? I've saved $600,000 and I'm 59, but I still have $25,000 in credit card debt. Should I use savings to wipe it out or keep plugging away with payments? We're 66 and retiring next year. Do we need to keep emergency savings in retirement, or will our investment accounts cover any surprises? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 7/16/2025

The “One Big Beautiful Bill” just became law—and it's already shaking up the financial landscape. In this episode of the Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the 6 most important takeaways from the 869-page legislation. Here's what you'll learn: Why the national debt is expected to increase despite $1.2 trillion in spending cuts How permanent 2017 tax cuts could save middle-class families billions The surprising new deductions you might qualify for—like tips, overtime, and U.S.-made car interest Major changes to SALT deductions and estate tax thresholds The phase-out of clean energy credits and EV tax breaks How new business deductions could drive economic growth Want more insights? Read the full LPL Research breakdown here: https://www.lpl.com/research/blog/one-big-beautiful-bill-act--six-takeaways.html

"We've got around $750,000 saved, plan to retire in 8 years, but we're really unsure about healthcare costs. How do we budget for premiums and unexpected medical expenses?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 47, single, and own a small business. What's the easiest way to get started on a retirement plan without feeling overwhelmed? We're 64 and just paid cash for a camper to travel in retirement. Did we just sink too much of our liquid savings into something that won't pay us back? We've got about $1.1 million saved, but nearly all of it is in traditional IRAs. How do we keep from getting crushed by taxes in 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 7/9/2025

The market isn't crashing—it's just catching its breath. But if you're tempted to sit on the sidelines until things “feel safe” again, this episode of The Fastest Four Minutes in Finance is your wake-up call. John Shrewsbury breaks down new research from J.P. Morgan showing how missing just the 10 best days in the market can cut your long-term returns nearly in half. And here's the kicker—most of those best days come right after the worst ones.

"We're in our early 50s, and my wife is inheriting around $200,000. What's the smartest way to use an inheritance in your prime working years?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! My husband and I are considering buying long-term care insurance, but the premiums are steep. Is there a point where it no longer makes sense? I'm 45 and just now getting serious about retirement with very little in savings. Is it too late to catch up and still retire in my 60s? My spouse is retired and I'm still working. Where do we even begin with coordinating withdrawals, Social Security, and taxes?! And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 7/2/2025

As we head into the second half of 2025, volatility remains the norm, but what lies ahead for the markets and the economy? In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman discusses: The major questions LPL Research is addressing in its Midyear Outlook—from recession probabilities to Fed rate cuts. Why short-term volatility is no reason to lose sight of long-term gains. How the "stock market escalator" analogy can help you keep perspective amid uncertainty.

"We're 55 and have about $500,000 saved, but most of it's in real estate. Should we be worried about being 'asset rich, cash poor' in retirement?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! We're thinking about retiring abroad. Is that financially wise, or are we missing some big risks? I'm 49 and recently remarried. How do we build a financial plan that protects both of us fairly if I've saved for retirement and my new spouse has saved very little? My wife wants to retire at 60. I'd prefer to work until 68. Can we plan for two timelines — or are we asking for trouble? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 6/25/2025

Worried about your retirement in today's uncertain world? In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, John Shrewsbury explains how to navigate market volatility—whether you're building wealth or already retired. Learn why staying invested during turmoil can be a long-term win Discover the “bucketing strategy” to protect against inflation, timing risk, and outliving your money See why dollar-cost averaging still works in a shaky market Whether you're 10+ years from retirement or already drawing income, this episode lays out a clear, proven investment strategy designed to remove emotion and create financial confidence.

"I'm 63 and planning to retire next year. We've saved $920,000, but we've never worked with an advisor. Are we missing anything critical by going it alone this late in the game?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Should we knock out Parent PLUS loans before retiring or keep paying the minimum? My husband just got diagnosed with Parkinson's, and he's only 65. How do we adjust our retirement strategy when we're facing uncertain care costs? We're 50 and thinking about taking money out of our 401(k) to help our son with a down payment. Is that ever a good idea, or should we steer clear? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 6/18/2025

A recent report from the TIAA Institute and the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Center reveals a startling truth: most Americans are failing at financial literacy. In this episode of the Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the results from a quiz taken by over 3,300 adults - and the numbers aren't pretty. He also explores common retirement misconceptions around Medicare and Social Security - and the dangerous gap between knowledge and preparedness. The good news? You don't have to figure it all out on your own. A trusted financial advisor can help educate, guide, and build a plan tailored to your goals.

On this episode of Get Ready for the Future Show, we're tackling some big retirement questions with even bigger financial decisions. Angie from Jonesboro wonders whether to take a pension lump sum or monthly benefit — we break down the pros, cons, and how to truly compare them. Elisha, a 62-year-old widow still working part-time, wants to know the smartest way to claim Social Security benefits — we walk through survivor options and earnings limits. Jennie from Vilonia asks if moving to a no-income-tax state will really save money — spoiler: taxes always come from somewhere. And Chris from Little Rock just sold a rental for $310K — we explore whether it's best to invest, pay off the mortgage, or delay Social Security. Big choices, smart guidance. Tune in and take control of your future.   And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 6/11/2025

Inflation cooled. Stocks surged. But is it smooth sailing ahead—or just the calm before the next curve? In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the latest CPI data, sector gains, and what economists are saying about the Trump tariffs and inflation fears.

"My husband and I are both 55. We've saved about $400,000 so far and plan to retire at 67, but it doesn't feel like enough. How can we tell if we're way behind or just need to ramp things up a bit?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! My job's getting more stressful and I'd love to walk away next year. How do I know if I can retire early without risking our lifestyle? I just turned 59 and started getting Social Security statements - should I delay benefits or take them sooner and invest the difference? I'm 60, and my mom is 87 and starting to decline. How do we protect her assets while making sure she gets the care she 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 6/4/2025

Trump's latest bill contains a hidden provision that economists are calling a potential economic disaster. In this week's Fastest Four, Scott Inman is taking a look at Section 899 - dubbed the "Revenge Tax" - and how it could transform the ongoing trade war into something far more dangerous: a global capital war.

"I've got $700,000 in retirement accounts and a $2 million term life insurance policy that expires at 70. I'm 63 now. Should I look at converting that to permanent coverage or just let it go?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! We're both self-employed, in our late 40s, and about $100,000 in a SEP IRA. Should we consider setting up a Solo 401(k) to save more or focus on building our non-retirement accounts? I'm 52, divorced, and likely won't remarry. Should I be planning any differently than a couple would? We're 57 and just became empty nesters. Should we take the extra cash flow and max out retirement, or put it toward paying off our $40,000 HELOC? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 5/28/2025

Are you afraid to spend your retirement savings? You're not alone. In this week's Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the psychology behind why retirees often cling to a “just-in-case” mindset—hoarding their savings out of fear and uncertainty.

"We have a mix of accounts—$850,000 in traditional IRAs and about $320,000 in a Roth IRA. We're both 66 and about to retire. What's the smartest order to draw from these accounts to keep our taxes low?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 62 and just got laid off. I'm eligible for Social Security but have about $520,000 in a 401(k). Should I go ahead and start my benefits or hold off a few years and draw from my savings instead? We live in a 4-bedroom home that's worth about $390,000, but we're thinking about downsizing to something under $250,000. With interest rates up, is this still a good move? And how do we know we'll actually save money doing it? We're both in our late 50s and don't have long-term care insurance. We've got about $2M saved and are in decent health. Is it too late to get a policy that makes sense, or are we better off self-insuring? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 5/21/2025

Is $1.26 million the new retirement goal? According to Northwestern Mutual's latest study, that's the average number Americans believe they need to retire comfortably. But here's the truth: retirement is personal—and relying on a national average might set you up for failure. In this episode of the Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman unpacks why blindly chasing a "magic number" won't cut it, and what you should be doing instead.

"46-year-old small business owner. Currently max a Roth out and have done so for years. What is the next step to set more away for retirement?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 58, still owe about $72,000 on my mortgage, and I'd like to retire at 62 - should we work to pay off the house first or keep investing and carry the mortgage into retirement? My husband and I are both 55. We keep hearing about Roth conversions - how do we know if it makes sense to start doing that now? Our daughter is 26 and struggling financially - how do we help her without hurting our own future? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 5/14/2025

Markets are rallying on cooler inflation and a temporary truce in the U.S.-China tariff war—but is it too early to celebrate? In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the latest Consumer Price Index report, the impact of slashed Trump-era tariffs, and what it all means for your investments. Don't get caught in short-term hype—learn how to stay focused on your long-term financial goals.