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In our Red Carpet Retirement™ Podcast we provide real life stories of what to do - and what not to do - illustrating our unique strategies that help Make Work Optional™ to help ensure your Red Carpet Retirement™ success and illustrating how best to enjoy it!
We help Make Work Optional™ for highly successful pre-retirees and retirees by helping to enhance and secure their financial future. We do our best work with business owners and those from the entertainment and creative industries. Listen and learn today!
Push Me, Pull You: Why Markets Behave Unexpectedly in a Crisis (Ep. 43)
With war headlines, rising government debt, and fears of broader instability, many investors are asking a simple question:
Why isn’t the market reacting more?
This episode was recorded during a recent market pullback, when volatility and uncertainty were front of mind. Shortly afterwards, markets recovered—highlighting one of the central themes of this conversation: markets often move in ways that feel counterintuitive in the moment.
Adam Scott, CFP®, unpacks the apparent disconnect between alarming global events and a market that, at times, appears surprisingly resilient. Drawing on real client questions, he explores whether we’re truly in a crisis—and more importantly, whether markets are behaving irrationally or exactly as they tend to over time.
Adam breaks down the “push and pull” forces at work beneath the surface. He outlines resilient factors that can support markets even when headlines suggest they should be falling, and why the real challenge isn’t predicting the next move, but being properly positioned before volatility arrives.
This episode is less about a specific moment in the market—and more about understanding why markets often behave in ways that surprise investors during every crisis.
How to Feel More Alive: What Actually Makes Life Feel Good to Live? (Ep. 42)
What does it really take to feel energized, fulfilled, and happy in your life—at any stage?
In this episode, Adam Scott, CFP®, is joined by his wife, Cynthia Scott, for a personal conversation about how lifestyle, environment, relationships, and daily habits shape how we actually experience life.
Cynthia shares a pivotal experience that changed her perspective, and the practical lessons she’s drawn from it. Together, they explore how community, walkability, physical activity, and learning new skills can increase happiness, purpose, and overall quality of life—whether you’re working, transitioning, or retired.
Medicare Advantage vs Medigap: A Decision That Shapes Your Retirement (Ep. 41)
Healthcare choices in retirement often feel routine at first, yet they can quietly shape finances, stress levels, and quality of life for decades.
How do you weigh lower monthly costs against long-term predictability? What happens when a decision made at 65 becomes harder to reverse later?
In this episode, Adam Scott and co-host Patrice Sikora break down the real differences between Medicare Advantage and traditional Medicare with Medigap coverage. They explain how these options work, why many retirees choose Advantage plans, and where hidden costs and administrative hurdles can emerge. The conversation highlights timing, underwriting risk, managed care realities, and why planning for future health matters as much as present health.
AI, MARKETS, AND THE FUTURE OF PRODUCTIVITY WITH OLIVER SCOTT AND JULIAN SCOTT (EP. 40)
Market valuations are reaching levels not seen since the dot-com bubble, raising questions about whether AI justifies these heights or if we’re heading for another crash.
Are we witnessing a genuine transformation or falling for hype? Can AI really deliver the productivity gains everyone is betting on?
In this episode, Adam Scott, CFP®, brings on his sons Oliver Scott, a software engineer working on AI at Compass, and Julian Scott, formerly a consultant at McKinsey & Company, currently Chief of Staff at Generate Capital, to explore AI’s real impact on business and the economy. They break down what AI actually is, from machine learning to large language models, and discuss how it’s reshaping consulting, software engineering, and countless other industries.
They also discuss the limitations of current AI technology and whether artificial general intelligence is feasible.
LEAVING UNCLE SAM: THE REAL COST OF EXPATRIATING (EP. 39)
Many Americans dream of retiring abroad, but few realize the tax implications involved.
In this episode, Adam Scott, CFP®, explains what it really means to expatriate, the financial consequences of renouncing U.S. citizenship, and how couples can strategically plan to reduce taxes. He also discusses potential pitfalls, from exit taxes to inheritance issues, and offers advice on when living abroad makes both financial and emotional sense.
Adam also examines the process and costs of expatriation, strategies to stay below U.S. tax limits, and highlights where moving abroad can actually benefit retirees and entrepreneurs.
MOVING ABROAD FOR TAXES AND LIFESTYLE (Ep. 38)
Can living abroad really lower your tax bill, or is it more about lifestyle?
In this episode, Adam Scott, CFP®, explores the allure of relocating to places like Portugal, Italy, Greece, and even Puerto Rico. He explains ways to reduce your taxes by moving abroad, but that for some gaining residency and improving lifestyle often outweighs tax savings. Adam shares insights, examples, and strategies to consider before packing your bags.
THE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL AND YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY FUTURE (EP. 37)
Social Security decisions have always been a balancing act, but a new piece of legislation, the “Big Beautiful Bill,” is adding fresh twists.
This week, Adam Scott examines how recent changes impact when and how to claim Social Security, challenging viral “claim early” advice and breaking down the bill’s pros and cons. Adam unpacks myths, math errors, and what the future may really hold for your benefits.
He also delivers a sobering warning: plan for a 20% cut in benefits after 2032, and don’t count on Congress to save the day.
TURNING 65: THE VITAL ACTION STEPS (EP. 36)
Turning 65 is more than a milestone. It’s a financial and healthcare turning point that demands action.
In this episode, Adam Scott, CFP®, shares the essential decisions you must make around Medicare as you turn 65, from enrollment timelines to cost-saving strategies.
With personal anecdotes and professional insights, Adam demystifies Parts A, B, C, and D, discusses common missteps, and explains how Medicare ties into employer and retiree health plans. Whether you’re still working, semi-retired, or fully retired, this episode breaks down what really matters at 65.
7 REAL CAREER PIVOTS FOR MIDLIFE REINVENTION WITH LIZ MOHLER, M.S., PCC – PART 2 (EP. 35)
When the credits roll on your first career, what’s next?
For midlife professionals—especially those in entertainment, reinvention is not just possible, it’s essential.
In this episode, Adam Scott, CFP®, continues his conversation with Liz Mohler, M.S., PCC,to explore career pivot options for midlife professionals. They unpack how changing industries can be rewarding, and they break down the practical steps to start over, while honoring your experience and passions.
REINVENTING CAREERS WITH LIZ MOHLER, M.S., PCC – PART 1 (EP. 34)
Life has a way of pushing us toward reinvention, but how do we embrace change and make it work for us?
How can we turn uncertainty into opportunity and transition into a career that reflects our passions and values?
In this episode, Adam Scott, CFP®, talks with career coach Liz Mohler, M.S., PCC, about the challenges and rewards of career reinvention. They share personal stories, strategies for overcoming self-doubt, and the power of recognizing your transferable skills to make meaningful professional shifts.
PART 2: ARE YOU READY FOR A 30% US STOCK MARKET DECLINE? (PAY ATTENTION TO VALUATIONS, NOT HEADLINES) (EP. 33)
In a climate where volatility is the price of admission to long-term wealth, are you truly prepared—not just emotionally, but structurally—for a significant market downturn?
This week on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott, CFP®, takes us deeper into the mindset and math that drives resilient investment strategies. Building on the theme of being ready for a potential 30% (or even 50%) drawdown, Adam goes beyond emotional readiness and unpacks one of the most misunderstood tools in modern investing: valuation metrics.
🔍 Spoiler alert: If your portfolio doesn’t factor in CAPE ratios, you may be flying blind.
ARE YOU READY FOR A 30% US STOCK MARKET DECLINE? (EP. 32)
How would you react if the US stock market suddenly dipped by 30% or even 50%? The unpredictability of financial markets can be intimidating, but fear not—there are ways to prepare and to protect your portfolio.
Join host Adam Scott, CFP® as he dives into the volatile world of market declines, addressing common investor fears and discussing the importance of mindset and a well-planned portfolio. Adam shares real-life anecdotes and valuable insights that challenge the knee-jerk reactions to headline-grabbing news events. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of why unexpected events, like AI’s influence on the market or significant political trends, can be opportunities in disguise… whilst the real dangers may lurk beyond the headlines… and how to protect yourself from them.
OPTIMIZING YOUR MPI PENSION PLAN WITH CEO DAVID ASPLUND (EP. 31)
How can Entertainment Industry members best ensure financial stability in retirement?
Understand how the Motion Picture Industry and Health Plans work as this episode explores the benefits, strategies, and vital decisions shaping retirement for industry members.
Adam Scott, CFP® interviews David Asplund, CEO of the Motion Picture Pension and Health Plan, who explains the robust framework supporting financial and healthcare security for entertainment professionals. David addresses common misconceptions, clarifies plan options, and emphasizes the importance of informed retirement planning.
EXAMINING THE FINANCIAL IMPACTS OF A TRUMP PRESIDENCY – PART 2 (EP. 30)
Do political changes redefine financial strategies, or do fundamentals remain king?
This episode of Red Carpet Retirement delves into the potential impacts of Trump’s policies on investments, taxes, and the economy.
Adam Scott CFP® discusses tax cuts, corporate profits, interest rates, and their influence on the national deficit. He also emphasizes separating political views from portfolio decisions and focuses on sustainable financial strategies.
EXAMINING THE FINANCIAL IMPACTS OF A TRUMP PRESIDENCY – PART 1 (EP. 29)
From tariffs to immigration, the implications of a Trump presidency ripple through economic policy and investment strategies. What does this mean for your portfolio?
In this episode of Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott CFP® analyzes the potential investment and economic effects of the newly re-elected Trump administration.
Adam Scott CFP® dissects key topics such as tariffs, immigration policies, deregulation, and budget cuts while questioning their long-term impact on markets, businesses, and investors.
IS LIFE INSURANCE A GOOD INVESTMENT VEHICHLE? (EP. 28)
Life insurance products are often marketed as essential tools for financial planning, but are they really the best solution for everyone?
How do popular strategies like Infinite Banking and Rich Man’s Roth measure up for real retirement security? What financial moves make sense as you age and your financial needs shift?
In this episode of Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott CFP® addresses the pros and cons of life insurance as a retirement tool and debunks some of the myths and sales tactics that promote it.
From understanding when life insurance is truly necessary to recognizing alternative savings options, Adam provides a clear view of what works and what may not.
SHOULD YOU CLAIM SOCIAL SECURITY EARLY OR WAIT? (EP. 27)
With the Social Security Trust Fund potentially running out by 2035, should you claim your benefits now or wait for a better payout? Let’s address the reality behind Social Security’s future and its impact on your retirement plans.
In this episode, Adam Scott CFP® talks about the complexities of Social Security, exploring the imminent depletion of the trust fund projected for 2035 and what this means for retirees. As he unpacks whether to claim Social Security early or delay it, you’ll gain insights into the nuanced decision-making process, the potential policy solutions, and the broader financial strategies to consider amidst this uncertainty.
THE 3 WORST MISTAKES TO MAKE IN AN ELECTION YEAR (EP. 26)
Do you struggle with investment decisions during election years? Discover the three worst mistakes you should avoid to keep your portfolio safe.
In this episode of Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott CFP® addresses the three biggest investment blunders investors make during election years. You’ll learn some shocking statistics about market performance during election cycles, why sitting in cash can cost you, and how not to let political biases cloud your investment decisions. He discusses the importance of maintaining a steady hand in volatile markets and offers insights based on historical data to help you navigate financial decisions amidst political uncertainty.
10 WAY TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SNEAKIEST ONLINE FINANCIAL FRAUD | EP. 25
Do you know if your online banking details are truly secure?
Today on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott CFP® addresses the alarming rise in sophisticated online financial frauds and discusses ten crucial ways to protect yourself. From phishing and vishing to smishing and pharming, you’ll understand the different tactics used by cyber criminals and learn the best practices to safeguard your financial information.
Arm yourself against financial predators. Tune in and share these vital tips with your loved ones.
PROTECTING YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES FROM FINANCIAL FRAUD | EP. 24
Americans lost $13BN to fraud in 2023. Young adults are particularly vulnerable – along with the elderly – as social engineering becomes increasingly sophisticated. Don’t think it can’t happen to you.
Today on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott, CFP® delves into the concerning rise of financial fraud and offers practical tools to help safeguard against these threats. Joined by a young man, George Baker, who shares his personal experience of being scammed at the tender age of 18, this episode aims to educate listeners about the increasing sophistication of scams and the critical steps to avoid becoming a victim. By tuning in, you’ll learn essential prevention strategies to protect your family and hear firsthand accounts that underline the importance of vigilance and prompt action.
AVOID CPA MISTAKES: WHY YOU SHOULD CHECK YOUR TAX RETURN | Ep.23
Avoid costly CPA mistakes on your current or next tax return!
Today on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott CFP® talks about common but unintended mistakes CPAs make. Our discussion isn’t about pointing fingers but rather about uncovering common oversights in the filing process, how they happen, and, most importantly, how you can avoid being caught by surprise with unnecessary tax hits.
Make sure your path to a seamless retirement isn’t derailed by avoidable tax mishaps. Stay tuned for our next episode where Adam discusses some of the opportunities missed by CPAs.
NAVIGATING THE MARKETS: Q1 REVIEW WITH RED CARPET RETIREMENT™ | Ep.22
The first quarter of 2024 was particularly unusual and interesting in the economy and financial markets, so for the first time on Red Carpet Retirement we are doing a quarterly market review.
In this episode, Adam Scott CFP® dissects the impactful first quarter of 2024, analyzing stock market shifts, economic trends, and a surprising twist on the usual recession predictions. He unravels the events that led to one of the most unpredictable quarters in recent memory, from the economy’s surprising buoyancy to the stock market’s rally, contrasted with the cautious bond market and looming Federal Reserve decisions. With a keen eye on what these changes mean for entrepreneurs and creatives preparing for retirement, this episode is packed with expert insights, future speculations, and valuable takeaways.
RAISING FINANCIALLY AND MENTALLY HEALTHY KIDS AMIDST AFFLUENCE, WITH LIZ MOHLER M.S. PCC | Ep.21
What’s the secret to raising financially and mentally healthy young adults? This is never easy, and for wealthy families, it can be particularly challenging.
In this episode on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott, CFP® teams up with Liz Mohler, an esteemed ICF-accredited career and life coach, to explore the complex but crucial topic of raising financially and mentally healthy children. Their conversation includes strategies for instilling a healthy relationship with money in children, especially those growing up in affluent environments, and shared experiences aimed at guiding your kids toward a prosperous and balanced future. They tackle the complexities of parenting in today’s economic landscape, offering actionable advice on everything from allowances to nurturing a sense of purpose, so vitally important to mental health.
RETIRE WITH PURPOSE: GOAL SETTING & LIFE COACHING WITH LIZ MOHLER M.S. PCC | Ep.20
They say retirement is like a second childhood—except this time, you’re the one in charge! It’s time to set new goals!
This week on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam speaks with Liz Mohler, an esteemed ICF-accredited career and life coach, about setting goals in retirement. While focusing on the importance of goal setting and finding purpose, they address the emotional and social challenges retirees face, such as the loss of work-related social networks and the need to redefine daily routines. Liz offers her expertise on navigating these changes, emphasizing the value of mentoring and volunteering. Adam shares personal anecdotes, including his own struggle with the concept of retirement and his wife Cynthia’s positive experiences post-retirement.
2023 Market Wrap-Up and 2024 Projections | Ep.19
2023’s market forecasts were dark, but the markets kept out of the shadows. Let’s take a look at what we think 2024 may look like.
This week on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam Scott reflects on 2023’s financial market outlook. Looking forward into 2024, he talks about the potential impact of the Federal Reserve’s policies, inflation, and interest rates, as well as how the upcoming presidential election might influence market dynamics. Adam also touches on the recent performance of stocks and bonds, corporate earnings, and provides an economic forecast for 2024.
How To Maximize Your Retirement Savings Using The Mega-Backdoor Roth Strategy| Ep.18
Are you looking for ways to maximize your tax-advantaged retirement savings bucket? (In other words, a savings bucket where both growth and withdrawals are tax-free!) A mega backdoor Roth 401(k) might be what you need.
This week, Adam Scott, CFP®, delves into the ins and outs of a mega backdoor Roth 401(k), a financial maneuver that can potentially help you supercharge your retirement savings. You will also learn how an IRA is different from a 401(k) account, and ways to optimize your retirement income strategy.
Use Roth Conversions to Reduce your Lifetime Taxes: Turning Financial Lemons into Lemonade| Ep.17
There are many benefits to Roth conversions. But beware! Don’t step on a land mine when implementing that can blow your finances up!
In this episode, Adam introduces his new co-host, Patrice Sikora, before discussing the benefits of Roth conversions. They highlight how these conversions can help reduce taxable income and potentially avoid higher taxes and higher Medicare premiums in retirement.
The Downtown Real Estate Armageddon (and What it Means for You)| Ep.16
We’re not here to spread alarm but to unravel the intricate web of challenges and transformations reshaping the commercial real estate sector. Join us for an in-depth exploration of what’s causing the downtown commercial real estate Armageddon and what it means for the future of these urban landscapes.
In this episode, Adam Scott, CFP® discusses the current real estate environment and potential challenges in the market. As the conversation weaves through these market dynamics, Adam reflects on the broader implications for companies.
Don't Be Fooled By This Dirty Little Secret| Ep.15
When it comes to financial advisory, finding the right balance between innovation and caution is crucial. With the rise of data and technology, risk analysis software has become a popular tool for guiding investment strategies. But should we rely on this software? What are the risks of doing so?
In this episode, Adam Scott explores the world of risk analysis software in the financial advisory industry. He uncovers the misuse of the software by some advisors who manipulate them to present past performance and cherry-pick investments, emphasizing the importance of combining it with wisdom and knowledge.
Real Estate Part 2: The Future May Be Different | Ep.14
Real Estate values always go up, right?
In this episode, Adam provides an in-depth analysis of the future of rental properties. They dismantle the perception of real estate as a guaranteed win, exploring the pros and cons, tax implications, financial intricacies, and potential challenges of managing rental properties.
