The Get Ready For The Future Show

Order of Withdrawals?

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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 4/24/2024

(FF) Earnings Are Still Going Strong!

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 Catch-Up Contributions?

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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com!
Originally aired 4/17/2024

(FF) Ride the Rollercoaster

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. 

Retiring Next Year? Do This!

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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com!
Originally aired 4/10/2024

(FF) Is Inflation That Scary?

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!

How Should I Invest $25k?

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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com!
Originally aired 4/3/2024

(FF) Too Late for Taxes?

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 Worry About a Housing Crash in 2024?

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 show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 3/27/2024

(FF) March Madness Market Predictions

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.