Episodes

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 alar...

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 sk...

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 r...

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...

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, ...

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. Key points covered: How U.S. taxation on worldwide income mak...

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 c...

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,...

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 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. Liz and Adam discuss: The value of corpo...

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 profes...

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...

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 headl...

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 misconce...

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 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. Key takeaways include: The implications of extending...

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 analyzes the potential investment and economic effects of the newly re-elected Trump administration. He dissects key topics such as tariffs, immigration policies, deregulation, and budget cuts while questioning their long-term impact on markets, businesses, and investors. Adam dis...

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 addresses the pros and cons of life insurance as a retirement tool and debunks some of the myths and sales tactics that promo...

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 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 ...

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 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 m...

Do you know if your online banking details are truly secure? Today on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam 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. Adam discusses: The intricacies of phishing, spear phishing, and common scams on platforms lik...

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...

Avoid costly CPA mistakes on your current or next tax return! Today on Red Carpet Retirement, Adam 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. Adam’s Key Takeaways: Ensure all 1099 forms, especially revisions, are communicated to your CPA to avoid overpayment Be awa...

What shook the stock market and economy in Q1 of 2024? Dive into this episode for an insightful quarterly wrap-up! In this episode, Adam 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 loomi...

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. This week 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 ...

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 off...