Pensions are quickly becoming a thing of the past, to the point where union members rely on Social Security like everyone else. The Alliance for Retired Americans advocates for the retirement security of all working people, including millions of union members.  Executive Director Rich Fiesta says that everyone has a stake in preserving Social Security... at a time when the most anti-union administration in recent history is trying to undermine it.  

What can you do to reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's? And where are we with early detection and treatment? Dr. Heather Snyder of the Alzheimer's Association is here with news of exciting breakthroughs in the fight against a disease that afflicts 1 in 9 Americans.  She tells us about the blood test for early detection of Alzheimer's... and about treatment and prevention, including how lifestyle changes may help protect against cognitive decline! A must-listen for anyone who is concerned about Alzheimer's. 

Dr. Erlene Rosowsky is a clinical psychologist at Harvard specializing in the field of aging --- or "geropsychology."  Her research and writings spring from a deep sense of empathy for seniors and their families. Today, she offers expert advice about aging --- including "the stories we tell ourselves" and the importance of humor.  "Dr. R" also has plenty to say about ageism and forming friendships later in life. A must-listen for seniors --- and their loved ones! Check out her blog, "The Older Self," at https://erlenepsyd.com/category/blog.html

Shahab and Walter answer your questions about Social Security & Medicare --- and we troll the trolls! Is it time to scrap the payroll wage cap? Is Social Security really running out of money? And how do you switch from Medicare Advantage to traditional Medicare? We take on the trolls who claim that Democrats want these programs "to fail" ---- and that Social Security is "going broke" because of "fraud." Lots to answer --- and debunk. Let's get to it! NOTE: Please do not make any financial, medical, or health insurance decisions based on this show. Seek guidance from a financial or insurance professional, your State Health Insurance Program, or the appropriate federal agency.

We go behind the scenes of our new documentary film, "Social Security:  90 Years Strong." The story takes us from the 1930s, when Social Security was signed into law by FDR, to today --- when we are fighting to defend it from Trump & DOGE. Join director Walter Gottlieb, producer Melanie Reilly, and editor Marcie Robusto for a lively chat about the making of this landmark film! Plus --- some compelling clips from the documentary.  It's a story that's earned the right to be told! 

Do you want bots deciding what kind of health care you get? The Trump Administration is experimenting with using AI to determine whether patients in traditional Medicare can get the care they need.  This is an attempt to make the traditional program more like Medicare Advantage --- a glorified HMO that gets between you and your doctor. Our health policy expert, Anne Montgomery, explains why this is such a bad idea for Medicare beneficiaries. Plus: members of the Kennedy family join members of Congress in calling for the resignation of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

In our Season 3 premiere, Congressman Brendan Boyle (D-PA) excoriates the Trump administration for gutting Medicaid, endangering Medicare, and monkeying with Social Security. Rep. Boyle says Trump is "too lazy to learn" how Social Security really works, allowing DOGE to run amok at the Social Security Administration. He also tells us that some 500,000 Pennsylvanians will lose health coverage because of Trump's "Unfair, Ugly Bill." Meanwhile, Medicare may see a huge, automatic cut because of the bill's deficit-swelling tax cuts for the rich. Rep. Boyle, though not yet 50 years old, is one of the biggest champions for seniors in the U.S. House. Make sure to give him a listen!

Half of Medicare beneficiaries did not visit the dentist during the past year because they couldn't afford to.  Melissa Burroughs of the advocacy group Care Quest says neglecting oral health can contribute to serious health issues in older people --- including Alzheimer's, heart disease, and diabetes.  Worse yet, traditional Medicare does not cover routine dental care. As Melissa tells us, it's time for that to change! 

Jon "Bowzer" Bauman is best known for his 50s greaser character from the tv show "Sha Na Na." In addition to his career as an entertainer, Jon is an outspoken advocate for Social Security and Medicare! In this encore episode of the podcast, he tells us how we can save Americans' earned benefits during the Trump/DOGE regime.  We also hear how Bowzer went from Doo Wop revivalist to seniors' activist. If you're wondering if Jon also will sing for us... well...  you can bet your rama-lama-ding-dong, Daddy-O! Originally released March 4, 2025. 

David Tatel was the nation's first blind federal judge. He has written a new book entitled "Vision," offering reminisences from his time on the bench --- and wisdom for any older person who wants to live life to the fullest. Plus, everything you need to know about David's faithful service dog, Vixen! Enjoy this encore episode featuring a senior living with a major disability who made a major contribution to our country.