Your Retirement Elevated Podcast with Scott Dougan

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   Scott challenges the idea that financial numbers are the true measure of success and introduces a richer way to think about retirement life. He explores how time, fulfillment, and intentional living often matter more than portfolio size. Let’s shift from chasing “more” to designing a life that aligns with your values and becomes time-rich, not just money-rich. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💸 Money Isn’t Winning: Financial success alone doesn’t guarantee fulfillment 🧩 SIPPS Framework Matters: Social, intellectual, physical, purposeful, and spiritual health all matter 🔄 Reframe Your Scorecard: Retirement should optimize life—not just net worth 📅 Time Requires Intention: Freedom means little without purpose and direction 🎯 Living Well Matters: The real goal is becoming rich in time, relationships, and meaning   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

You can have plenty of money on paper and still feel unsettled in retirement. After decades of saving and doing everything right, many people expect confidence to come automatically. Instead, they hesitate to spend, second-guess their decisions, and worry about the future. Today, Scott explains why retirement isn’t just a math problem- and why feeling secure takes more than simply having “enough.” Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💸 Why Enough Is Never “Enough”: Confidence doesn’t come from a number alone 🔄 Saver to Spender: Shifting habits is harder than expected 💵 Income Drives Confidence: Reliable income changes how you feel 📉 Market Feels Personal: Volatility hits differently without a paycheck 🔓 Unlock Permission to Enjoy: A plan gives you confidence to actually spend   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1

This is Part 2 of our Hidden Risks series, and we’re shifting focus to one of the biggest long-term threats to your retirement: taxes. Some risks don’t hit all at once, they slowly wear down your plan over time. Scott breaks down how tax decisions shape your income, flexibility, and long-term outcomes. If Part 1 was about protecting your plan, this one is about keeping more of what you’ve built. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💸 Tax Drag: Small inefficiencies add up over time 🪣 Tax Buckets: Where your money sits matters 📉 RMD Pressure: Forced withdrawals can raise taxes 🏥 IRMAA Risk: Income can increase Medicare costs 👥 Survivor Impact: Taxes can rise after a spouse passes   Watch Part 1: The Hidden Risks That Could Derail Your Retirement: What Most People Forget to Protect - https://youtu.be/BY0UpdmV5cg    💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

This is Part 1 of our Hidden Risks series, where we’re looking at the issues that can quietly derail a retirement plan if they’re not addressed. Most people focus on investments, but that’s only part of the picture. In this episode, Scott walks through the risks that don’t show up on a statement but can still have a major impact. It’s all about making sure your plan is built for real life, not just market performance. Here’s what we cover in this episode: ⚠️ Beyond Markets: Real risks go beyond investment performance 🛡️ Insurance Gaps: Life and care coverage can be overlooked 📄 Asset Titling: Ownership structure impacts outcomes 📉 Risk & Age: Mistakes matter more later in life 💸 Tax Exposure: Planning gaps can create long-term drag   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

Kansas City is about to take center stage as it hosts one of the biggest global events with the World Cup, and that spotlight brings a surge of opportunity. Homeowners are asking a simple but powerful question: can you rent out your home during the event and keep the income tax-free? It all points back to a little-known strategy called the Augusta Rule, a tax provision that sounds almost too good to be true, but isn’t as simple as it seems. In this episode, Scott breaks down what the Augusta Rule actually is, where it came from, and how it applies to real-world situations like the World Cup. Here’s what we cover in this episode: ⚽ Major events create real financial opportunities 🧾 The Augusta Rule allows limited tax-free rental income ⏱️ 14-day limit is critical—go over and rules change 💸 Pricing must be realistic and defensible ⚠️ The “hassle tax” can outweigh the upside   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg Most people buy life insurance once and never think about it again. But by the time you reach your 50s, the real question isn’t just what type you have, it’s whether you still need it at all. As your financial picture evolves, so should your approach to protection, coverage, and long-term planning. Today, Scott breaks down breaks down term, whole, and universal life insurance, and more importantly, how to think about them at this stage of life. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🎯 Life Insurance Needs: Your 50s bring a completely different set of priorities 🧩 Understanding Coverage: Start with the problem you’re solving—not the product 🏠 Whole Life Basics: Permanent coverage with specific, limited use cases 🔄 Universal Life: Flexible, but requires ongoing management 💰 Cash Value Reality: Not always the best place for growth 🔍 Review Matters: Most issues come from never revisiting your policy   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

See the chart here: https://listentoscott.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/GRAPHIC-Retirement-Age-vs-Death-scaled.png A viral chart is making a bold claim: the later you retire, the shorter you live. It’s eye-catching, easy to share, and—at first glance—convincing. But like a lot of financial content online, it blends real-looking data with misleading conclusions designed to grab attention, not tell the full story. Today, Scott breaks down what the chart gets wrong and why the bigger issue isn’t retiring “too late,” it’s being unprepared for a retirement that could last decades. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📊 Viral Chart Myth: Eye-catching data doesn’t always mean accurate conclusions 🔍 Data Breakdown: The chart mixes correlation with misleading assumptions 📉 Real vs Viral: Actual life expectancy data tells a very different story 🧠 Planning Matters: The real risk is not being prepared for a long retirement ⚠️ Study Flaws: Old data and bad interpretations drive viral misinformation   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg 📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

Today, Scott’s going through the top things people are Googling about AI and retirement and giving you straight answers. The search bar doesn't lie. People are nervous, curious, and trying to figure out what AI means for the life they've spent decades building. Most of the answers are less dramatic than the questions suggest. But those questions are still worth working through with someone who understands your full financial picture. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🤖 AI & Job Security: What’s Actually at Risk 📊 AI in Your Portfolio: Hidden Exposure Explained 🧠 Retiring Out of Fear?: The Emotional Side of AI Fear 🔍 AI Financial Advisor: Can You Trust AI with Your Investments?   Resources for this episode:  The AI Headlines Are Scary. Do Retirees Need To Worry? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vqwyDjAdj8   Fortune article: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/morgan-stanley-predicts-ai-won-073000488.html    Invesco’s Winter 2026 DC Participant Pulse Survey:  https://401kspecialistmag.com/dc-participants-open-to-private-markets-and-ai-with-guardrails-invesco-survey/    💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/

When most people picture retirement, they imagine fewer deadlines, fewer worries and hopefully fewer taxes. But many retirees are surprised to learn their tax bill can actually increase once they stop working. Scott walks through four retirement tax traps that catch people off guard and how proactive tax planning can help reduce lifetime taxes and protect retirement income. Here’s what we cover in this episode: ⏳ RMD Surprises: Required withdrawals can increase taxable income 🔁 Roth Conversion Timing: Poor timing can trigger higher tax brackets 💰 Social Security Taxes: Benefits can become partially taxable 👫 Widow’s Tax Risk: Surviving spouses often face higher tax rates 📊 Proactive Planning: Early retirement years create tax opportunities 🧠 Coordinated Strategy: Taxes, withdrawals, and Medicare are connected   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg AI headlines are everywhere right now: “jobs disappearing,” “work becoming optional,” and predictions that artificial intelligence will reshape the entire economy. Scott steps back from emotional headlines and looks at what the actual data suggests about AI and the workforce. The real question isn’t whether AI will change the future; it’s whether your retirement plan is flexible enough to handle uncertainty if your timeline shifts. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💥 Attention Economy: Headlines aim to provoke emotional reactions 🤖 Job Evolution: AI changes work more than eliminating jobs 📉 Net Job Growth: Automation may create more roles long-term ⚠️ Late-Career Risk: Job loss near retirement has a bigger impact 🧭 Flexible Planning: Retirement plans must adapt to uncertainty   Yale’s Budget Lab article: Evaluating the Impact of AI on the Labor Market https://budgetlab.yale.edu/research/evaluating-impact-ai-labor-market-current-state-affairs World Economic Forum article: Future of Jobs Report 2025: 78 Million New Job Opportunities by 2030 but Urgent Upskilling Needed to Prepare Workforces https://www.weforum.org/press/2025/01/future-of-jobs-report-2025-78-million-new-job-opportunities-by-2030-but-urgent-upskilling-needed-to-prepare-workforces/ Goldman Sachs article: How Will AI Affect the Global Workforce? https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/how-will-ai-affect-the-global-workforce Fortune article: Morgan Stanley predicts AI won’t let you retire early: Instead, you’ll have to train for jobs that don’t exist yet https://finance.yahoo.com/news/morgan-stanley-predicts-ai-won-073000488.html Brookings article: Measuring US workers’ capacity to adapt to AI-driven job displacement https://www.brookings.edu/articles/measuring-us-workers-capacity-to-adapt-to-ai-driven-job-displacement/   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg What actually happens after your annual review meeting? Is your plan just sitting on a shelf, or is something happening behind the scenes? In this episode, Scott pulls back the curtain and walks through the firm’s annual service calendar, the intentional, season-by-season process that keeps retirement plans aligned, optimized, and protected all year long. If you’ve ever wondered what your advisory team is doing between meetings, this episode is your behind-the-scenes tour. Here’s what we cover in this episode: ❄️ Winter Positioning: Preparing taxes, RMDs, and income coordination 🌷 Spring Strategy Review: Deep investment analysis and plan recalibration ☀️ Summer Protection Focus: Insurance, cybersecurity, and tax return review 🍁 Fall Precision Execution: Year-end tax moves and income adjustments ☕ Coffee Conversations: Educational events keeping clients informed   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg Financial media loves simple answers: always do this or never do that. But real financial planning doesn’t work that way. Most of the biggest decisions people face in retirement live in the gray. Scott pulls back the curtain on the sensational advice dominating YouTube and financial media. Instead of chasing rigid rules, he explains why thoughtful coordination across multiple planning areas produces better outcomes. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💸 Roth Conversions: Context matters more than slogans 📈 Social Security Timing: Optimization vs. maximization 🏡 Paying Off the House: Emotional security vs. liquidity 🎯 Advisor or DIY: Complexity determines the answer 💰 Inheritance Decisions: Intentional legacy vs. lifestyle flexibility   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg Some people love a thunderstorm, while others panic the moment clouds roll in. Markets work the same way and pretending you’re more comfortable with risk than you really can get expensive. Scott uses a weather lens to explain how preparation, not prediction, is what keeps retirement plans steady when volatility hits. When turbulence hits, preparation beats optimism every time. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🌩️ The Forecast Isn’t the Weather - Why market predictions don’t change volatility but preparation does. ☀️ Calm Markets Can Fool You - Why risk feels easy during bull markets and terrifying during downturns. 🚧 Your “Uncle” Number - Defining the loss level that would cause emotional panic. 🛣️ Guardrails & Speed Limits - Matching your portfolio to your real tolerance and not theoretical confidence. 🛡️ Preparation Over Prediction - Building income stability so volatility doesn’t derail your retirement.   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg Most people don’t struggle in retirement because they made bad decisions, they struggle because they keep using the right tools for the wrong season. Scott shows how a simple story reveals why familiar strategies can quietly become obstacles over time. Inspired by a parable popularized by Sahil Bloom, the conversation reframes what real progress looks like later in life. Sometimes the hardest part of moving forward isn’t effort, it’s knowing what to finally set down. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🚤 Boat Dragging Context: Why smart people feel stuck 📖 The Parable Explained: A tool becomes a burden 💼 Outdated Strategies: Accumulation mindsets linger 🔄 New Retirement Reality: Income, risk, and tax shifts 🧠 Psychological Impact: Fear, familiarity, and sunk cost 🛠️ Proactive Planning: Intentional subtraction and alignment   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg There’s no shortage of retirement advice out there, but not all of it is helpful, and some of it can quietly do real damage. Today, Scott walks through 10 of the most common retirement planning myths and explains why relying on them can derail an otherwise solid plan. Before assuming something is “just how retirement works,” it’s worth taking a closer look. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📚 The “Thick Plan” Fallacy: Why bigger financial plans don’t automatically mean better outcomes 💑 Survivor Income Assumptions: A surviving spouse usually needs more income than expected 📉 Stocks vs. Bonds in Retirement: Age alone isn’t a reliable investment guide 🛑 Spending During Market Downturns: Why “just stop spending” isn’t a realistic strategy 🤯 Decision Fatigue in Retirement: Financial decisions often become more complex, not less   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg After a year marked by volatility, uncertainty, and more than a few economic curveballs, it’s understandable if optimism doesn’t come easily. Today, Scott discusses a Bloomberg opinion column that argues the outlook for 2026 may be brighter than many people expect. A strong economy might lift markets, but a strong financial plan is what helps people stay confident no matter how the headlines turn out. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💸 Consumer Cash – More money flowing to households 🏢 Business Growth – Increased capital and investment flexibility 📉 Lower Costs – Interest rates and energy easing pressure 🌍 Market Stability – Fewer shocks from tariffs and trade   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg What’s new in 2026 for retirees and pre-retirees? Retirement rules are changing, and your future could look different in 2026. Tune in to discover what’s new and how the latest shifts might impact your financial strategy. Scott also shares what’s driving conversations on benefits, taxes, and smart savings moves. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📅 2026 Updates – Key changes affecting retirees and pre-retirees 💸 COLA & Medicare – Benefit increases offset by rising premiums 🧾 Senior Deduction – New tax breaks creating planning opportunities 🚀 Catch-Up Savings – Higher contribution limits for late-career workers 💼 Taxes & HSAs – Additional changes impacting health and tax strategy   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg Smart, successful people don’t lose money because they lack intelligence. They lose money because they’re human. In this episode, Scott goes in-depth about the hidden cost of emotional investing and why fear, greed, and headlines often derail even well-built plans. Drawing on behavioral economics and real-world examples, the conversation explains how emotions quietly erode long-term results and what actually works instead. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🧠 Behavioral Traps: Why emotions override logic in investing 🎢 Emotional Roller Coaster: Stress, volatility, and poor timing 📱 Fear & FOMO: Social media, headlines, and herd behavior 🔍 Investor Biases: Overconfidence, loss aversion, and regret   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg It’s official, the IRS has released the full set of 2026 tax numbers, and the changes may impact more than just your next return. Scott walks through what’s actually changed and how it may impact you and your future. The real opportunity isn’t just knowing the numbers, it’s knowing how to use them. Listen in to see how these updates can create meaningful planning advantages heading into 2026 and beyond. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📋 2026 Overview: What the IRS finalized 📈 Contribution Limits: More room to save 🚫 IRA Phase-Outs: Income thresholds expanded 🧾 Standard Deduction: More income shielded ⬆️ Tax Brackets: Reducing bracket creep 🎯 Tax Efficiency: Smarter retirement planning Check out Scott’s 2026 Tax Changes PDF here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/17DkybXME97VvQQvV24nZPRhH_b6ed-ZU/view?usp=sharing 📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg A new type of government-backed savings account for children, commonly referred to as a Trump Account, is set to launch in 2026, and it’s already drawing attention from parents and grandparents alike. The details are still being finalized but Tyler Moison, CFP® joins the show to walk through what we know so far, how these accounts work, and what questions still need to be answered. While this new program doesn’t replace thoughtful planning, it may become a valuable tool for families looking to build financial momentum for the next generation. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 👶 Who Qualifies for a Trump Account 📅 Enrollment & Launch Timeline 💰 Contribution Limits & Who Can Fund It 📈 Investment & Growth Structure 🧾 Taxes, Withdrawals & Qualified Uses   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg What if you retire with only $1 million… are you behind? That question fuels a lot of unnecessary anxiety, especially when comparisons creep in from coworkers, siblings, or YouTube success stories. In this episode, Scott breaks down what determines whether you’re on track for retirement, and why your number isn’t a competition. More importantly, he walks through what to do next if you really are behind. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🔍 Comparison Trap: anxiety created by measuring against others 🎯 Enough Defined: income and lifestyle matter more than totals 🏖️ Lifestyle Fit: spending choices shape retirement needs ⏳ Catch-Up Moves: saving more, adjusting plans, delaying timing 📊 Planning Role: structured process replaces fear with confidence   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  How can naming your spouse as beneficiary create unintentional tax problems? Most people assume naming their spouse as the IRA beneficiary is the safest and simplest option, but Scott explains why that isn’t always true. In this episode, he walks through several real-life situations where choosing a spouse can unintentionally (and negatively) impact taxes, fuel family conflict, or even jeopardize government benefits.  Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💰 When They Already Have Enough: why extra inherited assets may create tax headaches 🛡️ Scam Protection: safeguarding vulnerable spouses from exploitation 💍 Remarriage Risks: preventing assets from accidentally going to a future spouse 👨‍👩‍👧 Blended Family Concerns: avoiding accidentally disinheriting your children ♿ Special Needs Situations: protecting government benefits with the right trust   Watch Scott’s videos to Protecting Yourself from Scams: Beware of the Pig Butchering Financial Scam https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PrGluJvaJE  Am I At Risk of Having My Identity Stolen or Being A Victim of Fraud? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0MDdVGbBbg    📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   Most advisors are well-intentioned, but not all advisors are the right advisor for you. Scott breaks down the warning signs that often get overlooked when choosing—or staying with—a financial advisor. This conversation uncovers the habits, behaviors, and patterns that separate real planners from product-pushers and pretenders. It’s a straightforward guide designed to help you protect your money, trust your advisor, and feel confident in your long-term plan. And by the end, you’ll know the red flag most people miss until it’s far too late.   Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🔄 The Job Hopper: advisors who bounce from firm to firm 📦 One-Size-Fits-All Planning: when every client gets the same solution 💼 Always in Sales Mode: constant pitching instead of real planning ❓ No Information Gathering: watch out when advisors make recommendations without learning your goals 📵 Radio Silence: advisors who disappear after the paperwork is signed 🎬 Clickbait gurus: solo advisors with no support team   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/  #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Thanksgiving has a much deeper story than the modern traditions we celebrate today. In this episode, Scott details how the holiday formed, who helped shape it, and why its meaning has shifted over time. It’s a reminder that gratitude, community, and shared purpose run through the heart of Thanksgiving, even as the holiday continues evolving. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🦃 Origins of Thanksgiving: how the holiday’s earliest traditions came together 📜 Sarah Josepha Hale & Lincoln: the unlikely duo who helped formalize the holiday 🏠 Modern Meaning: how Thanksgiving became what it is today 💰 Compensation Transparency: addressing conflicts of interest clearly and openly 🙏 Gratitude as Practice: why Thanksgiving still matters far beyond its historical roots   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/  #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  For decades, retirees have based their spending on a simple idea: “The 4% Rule.” But new research, and even the rule’s original creator, suggests you may be able to spend significantly more without increasing your risk. Scott shares what’s changed, what still matters, and how to customize your safe withdrawal rate based on your goals, tax situation, and lifestyle. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📜 Where It Started: the true history of the 4% rule ⚙️ What Changes the Math: market assumptions, inflation, and personal factors 🧩 Custom Strategies: why withdrawal rates must be tailored 🏛️ Legacy Decisions: how your goals shape your spending rate 🧭 Your Responsibility: modern retirement requires active planning   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Retirement, as we know it, is a modern invention. But the very system designed to protect your future might now be holding you back. In this episode, Scott uncovers a powerful yet often hidden feature inside many 401(k) plans that can give you greater control, flexibility, and professional management, without moving a single dollar out of your account. Discover how unlocking it could completely change your retirement strategy. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🏛️ Retirement History: how saving for retirement has evolved 🏦 From Pensions to 401(k)s: shifting responsibility to individuals ⚠️ 401(k) Limitations: why most plans restrict your options 🔍 Hidden Feature: Discovering the Self-Directed Brokerage Accounts (SDBA) 🧾 Smart Oversight: how to manage an SDBA effectively   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   When it comes to investing for retirement, not all dollars belong in the same place, or even in the same world. In this episode, Scott explains the concept of the Three Investment Worlds: Protection & Savings, Growth & Potential, and the Hybrid space that bridges the two. By the end, you’ll better understand how to position your money across these worlds based on your goals, timeline, and risk tolerance.   Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💵  Protection & Savings: safety-first options like banks, treasuries, and fixed annuities 📈  Potential & Investments: market-based assets offering higher returns with more risk 🌉 Bridge Between Protection & Potential: hybrid and indexed annuities that balance safety with growth 🧩 Customizing Retirement Plans: blending the three worlds to match your goals and comfort level 🚀 Increasing Potential: how to seek higher returns through calculated risk and longer timeframes   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  You’ve worked hard to build up your Roth IRA, but one small mistake could turn “tax-free” income into a tax surprise. In this episode, Scott walks through the five essential steps to make sure your Roth IRA withdrawals remain completely tax and penalty-free. Follow the rules, track your timelines, and your Roth can become one of the most powerful tax-free tools in retirement. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💡 Tax-Free Roth Rules: understanding how Roth IRA withdrawals really work 🔄 Aggregation Rule: how the IRS treats all Roth accounts as one 💰 Withdrawals & Penalties: what you can access penalty-free and when conversions get tricky ⏳ The Five-Year Rule: why timing determines whether earnings stay tax-free 🧾 Tax Planning Tips: coordinating Roth withdrawals with your overall strategy   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  This October, the Social Security Administration is expected to announce a 2.7% cost of living adjustment for 2026 now that sounds like good news, until you see what it really means in dollars and cents. Today, Scott breaks down what the new Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) really means for you, and why rising Medicare premiums, taxes, and inflation can easily cancel out your “raise.”   Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💵 The Real Raise: average benefit increase is only about $54 a month 🏥 Medicare Impact: higher premiums can erase much of that gain 💰 Smart Retirees Plan Ahead: strategies for what you can do right now 🧾 Check Your Estimate: review benefits on SSA.gov and update your plan 🤝 Take a Team Approach: financial + tax + healthcare planning under one roof   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  A groundbreaking JP Morgan study just revealed something that could completely change the way we plan for retirement. Scott breaks down three of the biggest surprises revealed by new data from 280,000 households, showing that retirement spending doesn’t rise in a straight line, but bends, dips, and shifts over time. Planning for real life and ditching the outdated assumptions will help you create more freedom and confidence in retirement. Three New Spending Surprises, JP Morgan 2025 Study: https://listentoscott.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Retirement-Spending-Suprises-JP-Morgan-2025.pdf  Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📊 New Data Drop: JP Morgan’s study on 280,000 households 💸 Spending Curve: Why expenses rise, fall, and shift with age ⚖️ Inflation Myth: Real spending grows slower than expected 🔁 Partial Retirement: How working longer affects spending 💰 Smart Strategy: Buckets, cash reserves, and liquidity for curveballs   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Do you know which parts of your retirement plan are in your control, and which ones you’re leaving to chance? In this episode, Scott breaks down the “retirement equation,” a framework that helps you separate what you can control, what you can influence, and what’s completely out of your hands. Here’s what we cover in this episode: ➗ What the “retirement equation” really means 📊 Asset allocation & location, how to get them right 🕰️ The role of work duration and phasing into retirement 🏃‍♂️ Longevity: what you can and can’t influence 📉 Market returns and tax laws: why they’re outside your control   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Saving for retirement is only half the battle, but the real challenge is turning those savings into income you can actually spend. The type of accounts you use will impact your taxes, your Social Security, and even your Medicare premiums. In this episode, Scott explains how spreading money across different account types can give retirees more control, more flexibility, and less tax stress. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📊 How diversified buckets reduce taxes and create options 📉 Every dollar taken out can trigger ripple effects  🏥 HSAs and the triple-tax advantage 💰Pre-tax vs Roth: taxed later or tax-free 🚨 91% of retiree savings sit in pre-tax accounts—and why that’s risky   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Imagine standing at the water's edge, eager to fish but instead obsessing over organizing your tackle box. Many retirees do the same with their finances, constantly adjusting their plan but never truly enjoying the fruits of their labor. In this episode, Scott explores a common pitfall many retirees fall into: the "tackle box trap." Over-planning might feel comfortable, but it often delays the very experiences you’ve been saving for. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🧳 Signs you’re wasting time over-planning 🔑 How to build a plan you can trust and enjoy peace of mind 🌄 Don’t wait for “perfection,” embrace adventure now 🤝 Confidence often comes from having expert guidance, so don’t DIY   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Well, you’re retired. Now what? Some people subscribe to the “first year rule” which says that the majority of your best retirement months will all take place in the first year of retirement. So how can you be strategic during that first year and set the tone in the right way, both emotionally and financially? In this episode, Scott breaks down the five must-do’s in year one of retirement that go far beyond just managing your portfolio. Here’s what we cover in this episode: ✈️ Balance enjoyment with financial responsibility in the “go-go years” 💸 Set up a retirement paycheck, not just random withdrawals 🧭 The importance of routines, hobbies, or volunteering 💪 Assess and Strengthen Your Health   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser     📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Most people assume their beneficiary form tells the whole story when it comes to retirement accounts. But for 401(k)s and other ERISA-governed plans, one little known rule can completely override your wishes, and in one case, it shifted $3 million away from the intended heirs. This story is a powerful reminder that overlooking the fine print can cost your family dearly. Here’s what we cover in this episode: ⚖️ The Martinez case as a cautionary tale 💔 Remarriage without updates can redirect 401(k) 🚨 Common assumption: “Beneficiary forms trump everything” isn’t always true 🔄 Life changes are a good time for a beneficiary review 🛡️ Difference between IRAs and ERISA plans   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/ 📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Thinking about tapping into your retirement savings early? The IRS might have a 10% surprise waiting for you. Withdrawing money before age 59½ from a traditional IRA or 401(k) can trigger not just regular income taxes, but also hefty penalties. In this episode, Scott explains the rules around early withdrawals and why understanding them can save you thousands. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💸 The 10% IRS penalty trap explained ⏳ Why 59½ is the magic age to remember 🏠 Key exceptions: home purchase, education, medical expenses 🛠️ Planning strategies like the Rule of 55 and 72 🔑 Why preparation prevents regret later in retirement   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  Retirement is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll  ever make, but how do you know if you’re really ready? While there are countless details that matter, Scott is boiling it down to make it simple. In this episode, he covers the three key questions you need to ask yourself to find out if you’re ready to hang it up without looking back. Can you confidently answer these three questions? If so, you might be ready to retire. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 💰 How to get honest with how much you really spend 🏦 Turning your portfolio into a reliable paycheck 🚐 Structuring your go-go, slow-go, and no-go years ⚠️ The three tripwires: taxes, healthcare, and market surprises 📉 Sequence of returns risk and “reverse dollar cost averaging”   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/ 

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  The first five years of retirement can shape your financial future more than any other stage. Overspending often isn’t about recklessness, it’s about good intentions made at the wrong time. In these early years, small choices can snowball into big setbacks, from home upgrades to long-awaited dream vacations. In this episode, Scott covers the three most common ways retirees overspend in the first five years, and how to avoid sabotaging your long-term security. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🎉 Retirement celebrations that cost more than expected 🔨 Home projects that snowball past the budget 👨‍👩‍👧 Helping kids without derailing your plan 💰 How poorly timed spending can bump your tax bill ✅ Mapping out your first five years so you can spend freely without regret   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  There's a brand-new savings account just for kids created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and the media is already getting it wrong. It’s called the Trump Account, and it might just be the most misunderstood part of the new law. In this episode, Scott breaks down exactly what these accounts are, who qualifies, how contributions work, and the timelines parents and grandparents need to know. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🍼 Who qualifies for the $1,000 government deposit 💵 Annual limits, timelines, and contribution rules 📈 The compounding potential over a lifetime 🛠 How parents, grandparents, and employers can contribute 🔍 Key misconceptions the media is getting wrong   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724 🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was passed in July and it’s already reshaping the retirement landscape, especially when it comes to tax strategy and account planning. In this episode, Scott breaks down the three biggest takeaways from the bill that directly impact your retirement accounts. From Rothification trends and expanded conversion opportunities to smarter ways to preserve income-based deductions, we’ll tell you what has changed and how to take advantage of it. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🔁 Rothification is accelerating – More contributions and catch-ups will be pushed into Roth buckets. 📆 Conversion windows expanded – Lower tax rates are extended, giving you more time for tax-smart Roth conversions. 📉 Income limits matter – New deductions come with phaseouts, so strategic use of tax-advantaged accounts (like IRAs & HSAs) is crucial. 🧠 Small moves add up – Stackable strategies like QCDs and bunching deductions can significantly lower lifetime taxes. 📊 You only have 4 tax years to act – Don't wait until 2028 to start planning—optimize now.   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg    📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/     #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  The new tax bill just passed, but will it actually help you? Let’s look at who stands to benefit, who might lose out, and the strategic moves to consider now while the rules are fresh. Scott returns with a detailed breakdown of what the “Big Beautiful Bill” means for retirees, especially those over age 65. Plus, Scott offers a Big Beautiful Bill Readiness Checklist – a quick, powerful tool to help you spot tax-saving opportunities and see how the BBB may impact your retirement. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🎉 Age 65+? You're in the tax sweet spot 💡 Use today's brackets to your advantage 🎁 Charitable giving gets extra credit ⏰ 2028 isn’t that far, plan before the window slams shut   Download the Big Beautiful Bill Readiness Checklist: https://listentoscott.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Big_Beautiful_Bill_Readiness_Checklist.pdf  📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1    📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser    📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/    #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg Sending your child off to college is a proud and emotional milestone, but many parents miss one crucial step. Once your child turns 18, you're no longer automatically allowed to access their medical or financial information, even if you’re still paying the bills. That means in an emergency, you could be sidelined when they need you most. Today, Scott talks with Estate Planning Attorney Connor Kelley to discuss the essential legal documents every young adult should have before leaving home. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🧑‍🎓 Your legal role changes when your child turns 18 📃 Why powers of attorney matter for college-bound kids 🏦 How a financial POA helps with tuition and banking emergencies 🏥 Why a healthcare POA gives you access in medical crises 🛑 The risks of DIY legal forms and what could go wrong   Resources for this episode: Make an appointment to speak with Connor: https://calendly.com/yourestateplan-kc/phone-call Learn more: www.YourEstatePlan-KC.com   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg Have you heard the rumor that Social Security is now tax-free or that you’re getting a $40,000 deduction just for existing? Let’s clear up the myths and focus on what the new tax law actually did and what it didn’t. In this episode, Scott breaks down six of the biggest misconceptions swirling around the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill.” Aimed especially at tax-aware retirees and pre-retirees, this conversation tackles what’s true, what’s exaggerated, and what it really means for your retirement strategy. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🧠 Your biggest financial risk may be what you don’t know 📊 Tax bracket changes aren't permanent, and flexibility matters 🚗 Car loan deduction? Not as generous as it sounds 🙏 Charitable giving caps 🪙 The SALT deduction cap increase helps few and phases out for most   Watch What The “One Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Your Retirement Plan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHz-EThv0zE   Read the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Summary: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg  The headlines are loud, but the real opportunities are quieter. In this episode, Scott breaks down what the newly passed “Big Beautiful Bill” (BBB) actually means for retirees, pre-retirees, and business owners. We’ll tell you how this sweeping tax legislation opens new planning windows through 2028, with major implications for Roth conversions, tax bracket optimization, charitable giving, and small business depreciation. We’ll also provide clarification on key changes to the standard deduction, which includes a new $12,000 “senior bonus” and why these updates matter more for middle-income retirees than high earners. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📉 Tax brackets stay low—Roth conversion window extended 🧾 Standard deduction + $12K senior bonus (with phaseouts) 🏡 SALT deduction cap raised to $40K (with income limits) 🤝 100% bonus depreciation for business owners & landlords 💸 New above-the-line deductions for charity & car loans   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg In the book The Five People You Meet in Heaven, each person the main character meets helps him understand his life in a new way. Today, Scott talks about the five people you should meet before retirement—people who can guide your next chapter and help you retire with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Think of it as casting the right crew for the most important chapter of your life, because who you surround yourself with could shape how well you enjoy it. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 👥 Why retirement is a team sport 📐 The role of a financial advisor as your architect 📜 What most people miss in estate planning 🔄 The importance of mentoring for legacy and meaning 🏓 Chicken Pickle: The Newest Trend   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

📋 Get Scott's 5 Critical Checkpoints in a Sound Financial Planning Process 👉 https://listentoscott.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/5-Critical-Checkpoints.pdf    Choosing a financial advisor is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, but why do people choose the advisor they do? In this episode, Scott walks through 11 of the most common reasons people hire an advisor, from gut-level trust to clear communication, behavioral coaching, and smart tax planning. This isn’t just a list, it’s a deeper look at what really matters when you’re picking someone to guide your life savings. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🤝 Why trust and values still matter 🧠 Emotional comfort vs. financial logic 💼 Why a good team behind the scenes matters 📊 Investments are just part of the puzzle 🔎 Tax planning, income design, legacy advice   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

The 4% rule gets talked about like gospel in retirement planning. But let’s be honest, it’s always been more of a rough guess than a golden rule. Now, its original creator is revising it to 4.7%. So, does that mean your retirement paycheck just got a raise, or is this just another headline that oversimplifies a complex decision? In this episode, Scott takes a closer look at what the 4.7% update really means. He walks through the origins of the rule, the risks of interpreting it as a green light to spend more, and why your real withdrawal rate should always reflect your goals, health, time horizon, and risk tolerance. Headlines and quick financial tips are tempting to follow, but without a personalized plan, they can steer you in the wrong direction. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📈 What the new 4.7% rule is really based on ⚠️ Why withdrawal rules don’t fit everyone 🎯 The three phases of retirement 🧮 How dynamic planning beats static numbers   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

You’ve worked hard, saved well, and now you’re thinking about giving back—maybe to your kids, your grandkids, or a cause you care about. But should you wait and pass that wealth on later, or give while you’re still around to enjoy the impact? Let’s talk about how to make that decision with confidence. In this episode, Scott shares a thoughtful 4-step process to help you navigate one of the most meaningful decisions in retirement. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🛫 Why planning to “put your oxygen mask on first” is essential 🎯 Clarifying your motivations before giving 💸 How to give tax-smart and avoid costly surprises 🎁 Structuring your gifts based on how recipients handle money   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

A lot of people believe that everything should go into a trust once you’ve set it up, and while that sounds logical, the answer is actually no. Not everything belongs in your trust, and getting it wrong could lead to headaches, probate delays, or even tax trouble. So today, we’ve invited estate planning attorney Connor Kelley to break down the four big ones you want to be careful with: retirement accounts, vehicles, life insurance, and checking accounts. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 📜 Why IRAs and 401(k)s don’t belong in your trust 🚗 The surprising reasons to keep vehicles out of it 💸 How to handle life insurance the smart way 🏦 What to do with your checking account instead of retitling it 👨‍👩‍⚖️ The benefit of working with a coordinated financial and legal team   Learn more about the Kelley Law Firm: https://www.yourestateplan-kc.com/   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning

Most people walk into a financial advisor’s office asking for more income or a better plan. But what they’re really searching for is something deeper: peace of mind, clarity, and the ability to live life on their terms. In this episode, Scott challenges the conventional approach to planning and reveals the real reason people seek financial guidance in the first place. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 🗺️ Find clarity, not just paperwork ❤️ Your why > your wallet 🏡 Plan for your real life ⚠️ That uneasy feeling? It's trying to tell you something 😌 Peace of mind > perfect numbers   💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future? Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg   📞 Call us: 913-393-4724   🌐 Visit our podcast website:  https://listentoscott.com/   📚🛠️ Check out Scott's book, Exceptional Retirement, and Retirement Toolkit Download here 👉 https://keap.page/bu413/exceptional-retirement-youtube.html   🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more retirement insights! 🔔 http://youtube.com/@erg-kc?sub_confirmation=1   📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser   📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips! https://www.facebook.com/elevatedretirementgroupkc/   #retirement #retirementplanning