This week's episode features a multi-generational meeting of the minds, with host Walter Gottlieb, political director Luke Warren, and communications associate Lucas Kaplan -- on the history and future of Social Security. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Social Security into law on August 14, 1935. Ninety-one years later, his landmark New Deal program still provides seniors with basic retirement security. But what's next? Walter, Luke, and Lucas give their takes on strengthening Social Security, how younger adults feel about the program, and why Social Security is on the ballot in 2026. Don't miss this lively chat about a program that touches the lives of almost every American.

"Our priority is health care for working Americans, not giving tax cuts to billionaires," says Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) on this week's podcast. The Senator says that when Trump's Big, Ugly Bill takes effect in 2027, people are going to feel the pain of nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts. Sen. Van Hollen also says Congress must act to preserve Social Security, without cutting benefits. "Social Security is THE bedrock retirement program" and shouldn't be eroded. Chris Van Hollen first served as a congressman, and moved over to the Senate in 2017. He is a member of the Senate Banking & Finance Committees, and joins us directly from Capitol Hill.

It's been more than a year since Trump signed his Big, Ugly Bill into law, cutting nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid. Most of those cuts haven't even taken effect yet, but people struggling to afford health coverage already are feeling the impacts. And that's just the beginning, says Justice in Aging's Natalie Kean -- a lawyer and advocate for older Americans. Natalie tells us that older patients and people with disabilities will be especially hard hit by these cruel and unnecessary cuts -- all so that the wealthy could get another big tax break. But... Natalie also thinks there may be an opportunity for Congress to reverse the Big Ugly Bill's worst provisions, depending on the outcome of the next two elections.

Most seniors claim Social Security at age 62, even though they take a 30% cut in benefits by not waiting until full retirement age. Economist Jason Fichtner says that's a mistake – unless you have no real choice. Waiting until 70, on the other hand, yields you a big increase in monthly benefits for life! And Jason should know. He was deputy commissioner and chief economist at the Social Security Administration - PLUS a professor and highly respected expert in the field of retirement security. Jason is on the Board of Directors of the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI) and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation. This is a must-listen for anyone nearing retirement!

Shawn Perry is a radio personality in the Washington, DC area who launched a show for older listeners called "The Senior Zone" 8 years ago -- with no experience in broadcasting, but a passion for seniors' issues. Before starting the radio show, Shawn spent 22 years in the U.S. Air Force and worked in the health services sector. Today, he talks about the importance of Social Security and Medicare, the scourge of ageism, and what inspired him to start his own radio show. (Hint: It had something to do with his grandmother.)

It turns out that humor is one of the best tools for healthy aging. No one knows that better than this week's guest, stand-up comedian Missy Hall. She's a nationally-touring headliner best known for her appearances on the Showtime comedy franchise, "Funny Women of a Certain Age." In this debut episode of SEASON FOUR, Missy riffs on her experiences as a comedian, parent of a teenage daughter, grandparent, and cancer survivor - and shares her belief that its never too late to try something new.

Michigan is a fascinating place --- a swing state with a large senior population. In fact, 1 in 5 Michicanders is over 65. Our guest this week, Paula Cunningham, is on the forefront of seniors' advocacy in the Great Lakes State. As director of AARP Michigan, she has a lot to say about the stresses of family caregivers, the value of home and community based care, and the future of Social Security --- among many other things! Don't miss this chat with a woman on a mission to improve the lives of older people in her state --- and the family members who care for them.

READ THE TRANSCRIPT HERE::::: https://youearnedthis.org/defending-seniors-in-the-great-lakes-state-aarps-paula-cunningham/

In this encore episode from November, 2025, Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) tells us that Trump and congressional Republicans are leaving people of modest means "in the dust" --- by jacking up health insurance costs while showering the wealthy with huge tax cuts. He's also worried about the future of Medicare, as the disadvantages of Medicare Advantage become increasingly apparent and the Trump administration meddles with traditional Medicare in disturbing ways. Don't miss our visit with one of the most fervent advocates for Americans' health care in the U.S. Senate.

62 year-old gyrocopter pilot Caroline Paul is an inspiration to Boomers seeking a sense of adventure in later life. She's the author of the new book, "Why Fly: Seeking Awe, Healing, and Our True Selves in the Sky." In this encore episode, Caroline shares her philosophy about approaching life courageously, while weighing risk and reward. A must-listen for anyone who dreams of soaring -- literally or otherwise! Her book is available at carolinepaul.com.

READ THE TRANSCRIPT HERE::::: https://youearnedthis.org/why-fly-a-boomer-takes-to-the-sky-w-author-caroline-paul/

Host Walter Gottlieb and digital media manager Shahab Shokouhi answer questions from our Facebook community about Social Security! And... we troll a few social media trolls! Questions include: How do we demonstrate that the $2.6 trillion in the Social Security trust fund is real? Are Social Security rules unfair to single people? And... Is Social Security constitutional? Hint: OF COURSE IT IS!