In episode 112 of Going Forward, Eric Elliott is joined by Michael Scarpati, co-founder and CEO of RetireUS, to expose the hard truths behind financial planning today. From the myth of “set it and forget it” retirement accounts to the hidden toll of financial stress, he explains why doing nothing may be the most dangerous decision of all.Together, they unpack why 85% of financial professionals aren’t required to act in your best interest, how trust in big-name institutions can leave families vulnerable, and why financial wellness is really a form of mental wellness. As Michael shares, financial stress doesn’t stay in your bank account, it bleeds into your health, relationships, and leadership.Eric and Michael dive into how fintech is opening access for the 98%, how independent fiduciaries are reshaping trust, and why clarity with money is the key to leading with confidence in uncertain times. Whether you’re early in your career, preparing for retirement, or leading a business through chaos, this conversation will give you the clarity to stop "crockpotting" your future and start planning it with intention.Connect w/ Eric Elliott:Website: https://ericelliott.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-elliott-45704745/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericmelliott/Twitter: https://x.com/ericmelliottLinktree: https://linktr.ee/ericmelliottEmail: Eric@EricElliott.comText: 843-279-5843Connect w/ Michael Scarpati:Website: https://retire.us/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-a-scarpati/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retire.usSupercharge your online advertising campaigns with Optmyzr!Streamline management, optimize performance, and boost your ROI. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://hs.optmyzr.com/hs/vip⁠⁠⁠⁠ to discover how Optmyzr can revolutionize your digital marketing.Also, as a special treat for our listeners, sign up with the code GOINGFORWARD20 and enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on your first year with Trainual! Seize this opportunity to supercharge your operations and propel your business forward!Eric Elliott is a self-made entrepreneur and marketing expert with extensive experience crafting impactful brand narratives for clients across industries. He is the founder of VIP Marketing and Craft Creative. In 2009, Mr. Elliott started VIP Marketing with almost no resources. VIP now has a global team and is recognized as one of the top branding agencies in the USA by Clutch.co. He founded Craft Creative in 2015, a full-service video production company providing premium services to clients across the US. Eric is also the host of Going Forward, a podcast moving conversations with entrepreneurs and leaders that inspire, motivate, and challenge you to embrace possibility and make a difference. Mr. Elliott is the author of numerous articles and an active contributor to Entrepreneur Magazine, Forbes, a