ClearPath - Your Roadmap to Health and Wealth

The Saver's Credit, also called the IRS' Credit for Qualified Retirement Savings Contributions, is a tax credit that pays to save for retirement. This tax credit is in addition to the tax deduction and tax-deferred growth available to retirement savers. However, many people may be missing out on the Saver's Credit simply due to a lack of awareness. A recent survey by nonprofit Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies found that just half of U.S. workers are aware of it. On this podcast episode, Al and Catherine discuss the Saver's Credit including who can benefit from it and how to go about claiming it on your tax return.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amid population aging and the high cost of care, tens of millions of Americans are serving as caregivers for family members and loved ones. While these caregiving services are truly invaluable, they are often performed without a paycheck and they put significant strain on the caregiver. On this episode, Al and Catherine discuss five coping strategies that can help caregivers manage their responsibilities and, hopefully, ease their burden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is Medicare and what is the Medicare alphabet? When do I become eligible? How should I enroll? Medicare has a lot of options, nuances, and complexities. On this episode, Al Waller and Catherine Collinson explain the basics of Medicare – what it is, why it's important, how to enroll, and where to turn to if you have any questions. Whether you're currently eligible for Medicare, soon to be eligible, or helping a loved one who is eligible, it's important to have a solid understanding of the basics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fall marks the open enrollment period for many employer-sponsored health insurance plans as well as the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace, which is especially critical for Americans who don't have access to health insurance. Transamerica Institute's most recent survey findings were quite striking: Fewer than three in ten individuals who do not have health insurance are seeking medical attention when needed, and even fewer are getting routine physicals and recommended health screenings. Without such care, they're missing a potential opportunity to catch issues early on – issues that could intensify and become less treatable and more expensive to treat later on. On this podcast episode, Al Waller and Catherine Collinson outline what you need to know about health insurance including different types of insurance available, the options and trade-offs involved, and key details about Marketplace Open Enrollment for 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is essential to recognize how indulging in harmful substances like alcohol, illicit drugs, and tobacco can affect our health. During the pandemic, alcohol consumption increased as a means of coping with stress for many people, and this trend has continued for certain populations. On this podcast episode, Al and Mihaela outline tips to avoid harmful substances in order to improve our physical and mental health and well-being – and ultimately, prepare ourselves for longer, healthier lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

America's middle class is the embodiment of the American dream. In today's chaotic post-pandemic environment, how are middle-class Americans faring? What are their hopes and dreams? What is their current financial situation? And what is their retirement outlook? On this episode, Al Waller and Catherine Collinson explore the main takeaways from Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies' new eye-opening report on the middle class.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you fully considered the fantastic health benefits of spending time outdoors? With so much of our days spent indoors glued to computer screens and mobile devices, we are depriving ourselves of the opportunity to experience the rejuvenating benefits of spending time in nature…and it's more than just feeling good. On this episode, Al Waller and Mihaela Vincze explore how we can all benefit from the great outdoors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just about everyone is familiar with the old adage, “Your health is your wealth.” Many quotes, proverbs, meditations, cautionary tales, and even songs have contemplated this theme. On this episode, Al Waller and Catherine Collinson explore the intersections of health and financial well-being by offering explanations, sharing examples, and inviting listeners to adopt a new mindset in their daily decision-making that could enhance their lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are regular health check-ups really worth it? Absolutely! These screenings are super important for catching any health problems early on, so you can deal with them before they become a big deal. Despite this, a recent survey by the Transamerica Institute revealed that only 46% of the general population is getting regular physicals and recommended health screenings on a consistent basis. On this episode, Al Waller and Mihaela Vincze chat about why health check-ups are so important for staying healthy as you get older.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Al and Catherine discuss The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 and provisions including the Saver's Match, employer matching contributions for student loan repayments, catch-up contributions, emergency savings, and more. SECURE 2.0 is packed with dozens of provisions to address many of the most pressing issues and opportunities within our current retirement system, ranging from expanding access to workplace retirement plans to increasing ways people can grow and protect their savings. Some of the new law's provisions have already rolled out while other provisions are slated to roll out next year and in the coming years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Burnout can occur when individuals feel emotionally drained, overwhelmed, and unable to meet the demands of daily life. A recent survey by Transamerica Institute and its Center for Retirement Studies found that 42% of workers say that they often feel unmotivated and overwhelmed-- which could be symptoms of burnout. On this episode, we'll be focusing on recognizing the signs of burnout and taking proactive measures to prioritize self-care and seek support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People have the potential to live longer than ever before. But the question is how are you going to prepare yourself for a long and fulfilling life? On this episode, we discuss the basics of longevity planning and how to get started. ClearPath – Your Roadmap for Life. Along our journey to health and wealth, we've started covering a broader range of topics, so we are changing our podcast's name accordingly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's fast-paced and connected world, finding the right balance between work and personal life can feel like a constant juggling act. On a brighter note, a recent survey by Transamerica Institute and its Center for Retirement Studies found that employers feel a strong responsibility to help their employees achieve work-life balance. ClearPath – Your Roadmap for Life. Along our journey to health and wealth, we've started covering a broader range of topics, so we are changing our podcast's name accordingly.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Self-care—we've all heard of it—but is it really all that important? While it may seem like a trendy buzzword, self-care is essential for managing stress, preventing burnout, and promoting healthy aging. Today's discussion will focus on ways in which people can engage in some healthy activities as a form of self-care. ClearPath – Your Roadmap for Life. Along our journey to health and wealth, we've started covering a broader range of topics, so we are changing our podcast's name accordingly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the fundamental principles of saving and investing for retirement is to start saving at a young age. But we've been receiving inquiries from our listeners, what if you're in your fifties or sixties and haven't saved enough? ClearPath – Your Roadmap for Life. Along our journey to health and wealth, we've started covering a broader range of topics, so we are changing our podcast's name accordingly.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know that having a positive attitude towards aging can do more than just make you feel good? On this episode, Al and Mihaela share surprising research about how our outlook may influence our outcomes. ClearPath – Your Roadmap for Life. Along our journey to health and wealth, we've started covering a broader range of topics, so we are changing our podcast's name accordingly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's workplace is transforming rapidly in the post-pandemic environment and with the proliferation of robotics and artificial intelligence. Many people are left wondering, What comes next? ClearPath – Your Roadmap for Life. Along our journey to health and wealth, we've started covering a broader range of topics, so we are changing our podcast's name accordingly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's world, healthcare expenses are on the rise, making it challenging for folks to manage their medical costs efficiently. However, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can help, as they provide a unique way to save for medical expenses while enjoying tax benefits. ClearPath – Your Roadmap for Life. Along our journey to health and wealth, we've started covering a broader range of topics, so we are changing our podcast's name accordingly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Women: Are you ready to take greater control of your financial future? Or just looking for tips to strengthen your situation? If so, you've come to the right podcast. ClearPath – Your Roadmap for Life. Along our journey to health and wealth, we've started covering a broader range of topics, so we are changing our podcast's name accordingly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Women can live longer and healthier lives than ever before. However, it's crucial that we take steps to safeguard our health if we want to make the most of this opportunity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. population is growing older and the number of retirees is increasing. Since 2011, on average, 10,000 Baby Boomers have been turning age 65 every day and they will continue to do so through 2029. In its most recent survey of those ages 18 and older, nonprofit Transamerica Institute found that almost one in four individuals are now fully retired.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retirement is a time in life when people transition out of the workforce with more free time to enjoy life. But, when we do so, we are leaving our paychecks behind. We will need to live on income from Social Security, employer pensions and 401(k)s, and other savings and investments. For most people, this is far easier said than done.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taking good care of your heart – exercising, eating healthy, and getting regular checkups – is, of course, essential for good health and for your heart. However, there is a lot of research on actionable practices you can start today to not only help your heart health but also prevent other chronic diseases from arising.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's never too soon (or too late) to begin caring for your heart. Embracing a healthy lifestyle at any age can keep your heart healthy, prevent heart disease, and lower your heart attack or stroke risk. There are some powerful lifestyle factors that are often encouraged when trying to keep your heart healthy. However, a component we often overlook when thinking of heart health is the influence our relationships can have on this vital organ.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Al Waller and Mihaela Vincze discuss the benefits of getting a good night's sleep, tips on how to improve your sleep habits and debunk myths about sleep.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our health care system can be confusing and difficult for just about everyone, and yet it's so important we know how to navigate it so that we can get the care we need, especially now amid the pandemic. I'm your host, Al Waller. Today, Mihaela Vincze, public health expert for nonprofit Transamerica Institute® is joining me on this episode of ClearPath—Your Roadmap to Health & WealthSM to talk about health literacy, what it means, why it's important, and how you can improve yours.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Megatrends are increasingly influencing industry, employers, and the world of work. Welcome back to ClearPath – Your Roadmap to Health & Wealth SM. I'm your host, Al Waller. Joining me is Catherine Collinson, founding CEO and president of nonprofit Transamerica Institute® and its Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies®. On this episode, we'll be explaining megatrends, how they are impacting employers, and potential implications for workers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you took a poll asking folks if they could cease indulging their unhealthy habits, I suspect the response would be largely in favor, but the question is: How?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you have a grasp of retirement investing? Do you understand the terminology? If you do, then you are among the relatively few. A recent survey from nonprofit Transamerica Institute found that almost two-thirds of U.S. workers say they do not know as much as they should about retirement investing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you ready for a fresh start? Given the nonstop disruptions in nearly every aspect of our lives in recent years, there's a good chance that you may be thinking about making some changes in your life. And maybe you're looking for a good place to start.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the immortal words of Benjamin Franklin, “In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.” And it's hard to believe that dreaded time of year – tax season – is upon us once again. On this episode of ClearPath – Your Roadmap to Health & WealthSM, we'll be discussing what could be a bright spot for many this tax season – a little-known IRS tax credit for retirement savers known as the Saver's Credit. I'm your host, Al Waller and joining me today is Catherine Collinson, CEO and president of nonprofit Transamerica Institute® and its Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® to explain the Saver's Credit, who can benefit from it, and how to claim it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2024 is Peak 65. Now, what is Peak 65, you might ask? It is a major demographic milestone during which more Americans will turn the traditional retirement age of 65 in the same year than ever before. On average, 12,000 Baby Boomers will turn age 65 every day in 2024 and many of them may have retirement on their minds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. population is growing older and the number of retirees is increasing. Since 2011, on average, 10,000 Baby Boomers have been turning age 65 every day and they will continue to do so through 2029. In its most recent survey of those ages 18 and older, nonprofit Transamerica Institute found that almost one in four individuals are now fully retired.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness, but it can also be stressful for many people. Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can bring happiness into our lives and put us at ease. It's the act of focusing on what you have rather than what you lack—and it has many health benefits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Often times in life, expectations and reality diverge. The weather forecast may call for rain but then it's sunny all day. Or your map app says it will take 45 minutes to reach your destination, but an unexpected detour takes an hour and a half. Some things turn out better, others may turn out worse, and others may simply be totally different than expected. While these disconnects happen in our daily experiences, they can also happen with major milestones in our lives, whether embarking on a career, getting married and starting a family, moving to a new location – and retiring.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all know health care-related expenses add up! The good news is that if you're looking for a way to save money while also enjoying significant tax benefits, then look no further than a Health Savings Account (HSA).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor the estimated 53 million unpaid family caregivers in the U.S. who perform an invaluable labor of love that often comes without a paycheck. National Family Caregivers Month is about celebrating caregivers, raising awareness of their issues, educating communities, and increasing support for caregivers. In that spirit, we are dedicating this episode of ClearPath – Your Roadmap to Health & Wealth SM to caregivers in the workplace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marketplace Open Enrollment for health care insurance coverage is here through January 15, 2024, thus it's the perfect time to brush up on tips for picking the best health plan to meet your needs for 2024. Whether it's your first time enrolling, or you're a seasoned enrollee— we're here to break down the complex world of health insurance so you don't have to!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In theory, having life insurance can be a means of helping to protect our loved ones and is typically a vital part of everyone's financial planning. However, according to LIMRA, a leading life insurance trade association, half of American adults — representing 129 million people — say they don't carry life insurance. Like so many financial topics, life insurance can also be confusing, resulting in consumers having misconceptions about it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While many people enter retirement and never look back, there is an unusual pandemic-related trend that's now occurring, and that involves retirees returning to work in what has been coined “unretirement.” According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, more than 2 million Americans retired in the first 18 months of the pandemic, accounting for more than half of the people that left work at the same time. But since then, about 1.5 million retirees have gone back to work, according to an analysis of the Department of Labor data done by Indeed Hiring Lab.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It can be challenging to keep track of the differences between the various parts of Medicare. With so many different parts and coverage choices, it's understandable to get confused and overwhelmed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It appears our world is growing older and sooner than later. To that point, the World Health Organization (WHO) projects that between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world's population over age 60 will nearly double from 12 percent to 22 percent. While aging is inevitable for many, it's a frightening prospect due in large part to the pervasiveness of ageism, as well as the negative stereotypes linked to aging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.