Your Retirement Elevated Podcast with Scott Dougan

How to Tell If You’re Actually Ready to Retire (3 Questions to Find Out)

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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!
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📰 Read our latest articles on Kiplinger:
https://www.kiplinger.com/author/scott-m-dougan-rfc-investment-adviser 
 
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3 Ways Retirees Accidentally Overspend in Their First 5 Years (and How to Avoid It)

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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:
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Trump Accounts Explained: The New $1,000 Child Savings Benefit (And What Most Are Getting Wrong)

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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
 
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3 Immediate Retirement Impacts from The New Tax Bill (OBBBA)

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!
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Are You Winning or Losing in the Big Beautiful Bill?

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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!
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Adulthood Happens at 18, Ready or Not with Estate Planner Connor Kelley

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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!
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Debunking Myths Surrounding the Big Beautiful Bill

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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:
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What The “One Big Beautiful Bill” Means For Your Retirement Plan

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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
 
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The Five People You Meet Before Retirement

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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:
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11 Reasons People Choose Their Financial Advisor

📋 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:
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📌 Follow us for expert retirement planning tips!
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