Straight talk about retirement, investments and your money. The Get Ready for the Future Show is Arkansas' longest running and most listened to financial talk show.
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.
"We've saved around $1.2 million, and plan to retire in 4 years. With everything getting more expensive, I'm worried our retirement plan won't hold up!" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I know I need to sign up for Medicare, but I'm confused about what parts I really need and what it's going to cost me. My company just offered me an early retirement buyout. I wasn't planning to retire for another 5 years, so how do I know if taking this deal is a good idea? We've always managed our finances ourselves, but we're now 63 and 64, so how do we know if it's time to bring in a financial 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! For Social Security and Medicare resources, visit https://www.ssa.gov/ Originally aired 5/7/2025
Is the housing market sending warning signs about the U.S. economy? In this episode of The Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the latest earnings reports from the Big 4 homebuilders—D.R. Horton, Lennar, Pulte Group, and NVR—and what their forward guidance says about affordability, tariffs, and mortgage rates. With the S&P 500 Homebuilding Index down 34% since its 2024 peak, what does this mean for investors and prospective homebuyers?
"Mostly been invested in stocks - what kind of shift should I make to keep up with inflation?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'll be turning 40 soon and I have two kids - when does it make sense to invest in a 529? How could part-time work or freelancing in retirement affect my Social Security benefits and taxes? I'm 46 and maxing out my employer match at my job and don't really know where to go from here? 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 4/30/2025
The headlines are buzzing: U.S. GDP just turned negative for the first time in two years, rattling markets and sparking fears of recession. But what's really behind the numbers? In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down the latest GDP report, explains how surging imports (and tariffs) played a major role, and reminds investors why sticking to your long-term plan is crucial—especially when headlines tempt you to panic.
"Do I really need more than a basic will? What are the biggest mistakes people make with estate planning that I should be aware of?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What health coverage options should I look at to bridge a two-year gap if I retire early? How should I balance purchasing long-term care insurance, setting up advance directives, and safeguarding my remaining assets? How do I decide the best time to claim Social Security based on my personal situation? 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 4/23/2025
Are you saving for decades only to be afraid to spend in retirement? In this episode, Scott Inman's looking at why most retirees consume 80% of their lifetime INCOME but only 50% of their SAVINGS. What barriers are creating this "retirement consumption puzzle?" Stop preserving wealth you've worked hard to build and start enjoying the retirement you deserve!
"I've got the option to take a monthly pension or a one-time lump sum. The monthly option seems like a good idea, but I don't know if I'm missing something?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Can you explain how to plan for RMD withdrawals and avoid unexpected tax hits? How can I set my kids up for financial success without putting my own retirement at risk? With potential inflation, market downturns, and possible changes to Social Security, how do I create a retirement plan that can handle all this uncertainty? 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 4/16/2025
This week on the Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman reveals a dramatic 20-year case study from T. Rowe Price showing how staying invested during market downturns created a $2 million advantage over trying to time the market. Learn why panic selling locks in losses, how recovery periods typically last only 3-6 months after corrections, and why maintaining your investment strategy through uncertainty (including COVID-19, global financial crisis, and current Fed rate debates) is crucial for long-term wealth building.
Originally aired 4/9/2025 In this week's GRFTFS, we're joined by our Chief Investment Officer, Andrew Beatty, to take a look at the recent tariffs imposed by President Trump. What could this mean for the markets and the economy? And more importantly, what does this mean for YOU? If you've got a question for Andrew or the GenWealth Team, give us a call or text at 501.381.5228 or send an email show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Disclosure: Andrew Beatty of LPL Financial consults with GenWeath as our Chief Investment Officer
The Year of the Tariff continues with markets down 15% YTD. In this episode of Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott Inman breaks down President Trump's sweeping reciprocal tariffs and what they could mean for investors. Learn how these tariffs might push effective rates from 3.1% to 15.6% - levels not seen since before WWII - and what this means for your portfolio.
"Can I set up a trust that incentivizes my heirs to make responsible financial decisions?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! Can you tell me more about indexed universal life investments? Do we need a "spousal IRA" to keep our retirement savings on track? Why shouldn't I just simply pull from my 401(k) what I need to live on above my Social Security? 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 4/2/2025 Disclosure: GenWealth Financial Advisors and LPL Financial do not provide legal advice or tax services. Please consult your legal advisor or tax advisor regarding your specific situation.
Is the market overreacting to President Trump's new tariff plan? In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, we cut through the headlines to reveal what investors really need to know about the current economic landscape. While "tariff" has become 2025's economic buzzword, we explain why their actual impact remains uncertain and potentially years away.
"My husband is in poor health, and he's always handled the finances. How do I prepare for life after work by myself?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I'm 34 and a single mom. How would you recommend getting started for retirement planning? We're looking into taking my husband's father into our home to help care for him during his retirement. How do we balance our financial needs with his? My husband and I (60 and 63) are nearing retirement. What should I look for in terms of risk and how safe should my investments be going into 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 3/26/2025
Are you worried about market ups and downs? In this week's Fastest Four, John Shrewsbury reveals the game-changing investment strategies that will help you navigate market volatility and build towards long-term wealth!
"I'm 67, looking to retire next year, and have multiple different types of accounts with my retirement savings. How do my withdrawals impact the taxation of my Social Security benefits?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! I want to watch my family enjoy what I've earned over the years. Are there opportunities for tax-efficient wealth transfer to heirs while still alive? Should I consider a multi-family property as my first investment, living in one unit and renting the others? 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 3/19/2025
Some Americans don't invest because they think it's too risky, but at the same time find the lottery to be a potential retirement source! In this week's Fastest Four, Scott's taking a look at your chances of winning while gambling vs. long-term investing.
We're kicking off the Get Ready for the Future Show with the newest member to the GenWealth Team, Andrew Beatty, our Chief Investment Officer. He'll be joining the show to talk tariffs, the economy, the Trump administration, and more! And after that, we're answering YOUR questions: If my spouse remarries after my passing, how can I ensure my assets ultimately go to my children? I'm 57, own a business, and am considering retiring soon. Are there tax-efficient ways to transfer ownership? 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 3/12/2025
In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott breaks down the recent stock market selloff and provides two essential strategies for investors. Learn why the current 10% market correction is actually normal market behavior and discover proven approaches to navigate market volatility successfully. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/how-to-handle-stock-market-volatility/
"I'm 59 and recently calculated my net worth at about $3 million. Will I have enough to retire? " We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What are T-Bills? How do they compare to money market funds? Does either have a place in my investment strategy? I'm 62 and have a decently large estate. What's the best way to transfer wealth to my heirs? I'm 65 with $700,000 in retirement savings. Do I need to consider something like an annuity to help produce the income I'll need? 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 3/5/2025
Concerned about the recent stock market decline? In this week's Fastest Four Minutes in Finance, Scott's exploring: This week's S&P drop, NASDAQ and tech stocks suffering, current bearish sentiment, and historical data on pessimism vs. positive returns. Plus, learn why Trump's tariffs create market uncertainty and a timeless investing strategy for navigating market volatility. For charts and more episode information, visit: https://getreadyforthefuture.com/market-meltdown-alert/
"I'm 57 with about $2.3 million. Given my current portfolio size, should I start shifting towards more conservative investments, or is there room to remain more aggressive for growth?" We're answering YOUR questions on this week's Get Ready For The Future Show! What's the role of alternative investments in my portfolio at this stage of life (62)? I'm 45, $500k in various accounts, and make around $200k/year. 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 2/26/2025
After years of battling historic inflation, we're finally seeing relief. But what about tomorrow? In this week's Fastest Four, Scott examines Brian Wesbury's take on President Trump's economic policies and their potential impact on future inflation rates. Is the Federal Reserve—not Trump's policies—the true inflation driver? Get the facts beyond the political noise as midterm election rhetoric heats up.
We're prepping for some winter weather over here at the GenWealth studio, so we're re-airing some of your questions! "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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 1/22/2025
"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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! 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/
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