Podcasts about ACA

Episode 236: This new year brings so many big things, starting with our KAIJU-ARY month. An entire month of large MONSTER movies!!! First up is the king of all monsters, Godzilla: Minus One from 2023, with special guest and Kaiju expert, Miles B.Make sure to stick with us next week, for a trip to NYC with 2008's Cloverfield.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/a-cut-above-horror-review--6354278/support.

Health Calls Season 6, Episode 11 delivers an important Washington health policy update, as host Brian Reardon and Executive Producer Josh Matejka welcome Paulo Pontemayor, CHA's Senior Director for Government Relations. Paulo breaks down the latest federal health care policy developments impacting Catholic health care, including the expiration of ACA premium tax credits, rising insurance costs, and ongoing coalition advocacy through Keep Americans Covered. The conversation also highlights key wins in recent appropriations bills, such as extensions for essential Medicare and Medicaid provisions, telehealth flexibilities, and delayed Medicaid DSH cuts. Looking ahead, Paulo previews 2026 priorities—Medicaid work requirements, maternal health initiatives, and immigration policies rooted in human dignity. As a pivotal election year shapes congressional action, listeners learn how CHA members and community partners can stay engaged through advocacy alerts, local outreach, and collaborative efforts that strengthen access to care and support whole‑person health across the country. Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms:Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTubeLearn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.

Fewer North Carolinians using ACA; what you need to know about the SAVE Act.

Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Georgetown University's Katie Keith back to the podcast to break down the newly proposed HHS rule that could bring major changes to the ACA beginning in 2027.They discuss the proposal's biggest shifts, including a major push toward expanding catastrophic plans, new marketplace eligibility restrictions tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and potential impacts on premiums, marketplace enrollment, insurers, and consumers.Related Links:HHS Proposes Sweeping Changes for 2027 Marketplace Plans (Part 1) (Health Affairs Forefront)HHS Proposes Sweeping Changes for 2027 Marketplace Plans (Part 2) (Health Affairs Forefront)Trump Team's Planned ACA Rule Offers Its Answer to Rising Premium Costs: Catastrophic Coverage (KFF Health News)CMS proposes sweeping ACA exchange rule (Healthcare Dive)

If you're 55 or older and feel financially behind heading into 2026, this episode may completely change how you think about retirement.Most people assume retirement readiness is about how much you've saved. But after working with hundreds of pre-retirees, I've found that it's not a number problem—it's a sequence problem.In this episode, I break down why being in your late 50s or early 60s with a lower balance can actually give you more leverage than someone with twice the money but worse timing. You'll learn how low-income years, tax sequencing, and intentional withdrawals can help you flatten your tax curve, reduce future IRS exposure, and avoid Medicare IRMAA surprises.We'll cover:Why feeling “behind” can actually be a timing advantageHow MAGI suppression can unlock ACA subsidies worth $15,000–$25,000 per yearStrategic IRA spend-downs that prevent future RMD explosionsHow Social Security can be used as a tax-planning tool—not just a benefitWhy redirecting contributions and eliminating debt before retirement creates freedomThe real catch-up move that has nothing to do with saving moreThis is the foundation of my Red Zone Retirement Planning process—helping you catch up by design, not by stress or guesswork.If you're in the window before the system stops giving you options, this is the episode you don't want to miss.How much you need to retire quiz: https://bit.ly/Adam-OlsonInvesting involves risk, including loss of principal. Be sure to understand the benefits and limitations of your available options and consider all factors prior to making any financial decisions. Any strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Adam Olson, Representative. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services is not affiliated with any entity listed herein. This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services and its representatives do not offer legal or tax advice. The information presented is subject to change without notice and is not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security or insurance product.Mutual of Omaha Investor Services and its various affiliates do not endorse or adopt comments posted by third parties. Comments posted by third parties are their own and may not be representative or indicative of other's opinions, views, and experiences.

Search for Savannah Guthrie's mother continues with 18,000-plus calls pouring in; GA loses 209,000 ACA enrollees amid Medicaid debate; New Seasons workers win landmark union contract in OR; Experts: KY pork plant settlement wouldn't protect environmental health.

Search for Savannah Guthrie's mother continues with 18,000-plus calls pouring in; GA loses 209,000 ACA enrollees amid Medicaid debate; New Seasons workers win landmark union contract in OR; Experts: KY pork plant settlement wouldn't protect environmental health.

Ready to take control of your retirement? Start your Retirement TEAM Action Plan at ARHQ.com or call 419-794-3030 to speak with a retirement planning specialist today! Retirement rarely unravels because of one big mistake; it’s the overlooked details that do the damage. The team at America's Retirement Headquarters takes a clear-eyed look at the real-world factors that complicate retirement planning, from unexpected expenses that strain budgets to the challenge of knowing how much is truly enough to save. The discussion explores why dependable income matters more than account balances, how tax planning shapes long-term outcomes, and what changing healthcare options, especially within the ACA marketplace, mean for retirees today. Throughout the episode, the focus remains on taking a comprehensive view of retirement planning, one that accounts for uncertainty, shifting costs, and the need for financial resilience. Rather than treating retirement as a finish line, this conversation frames it as an ongoing strategy that requires preparation, flexibility, and informed decision-making. About America's Retirement Headquarters: We are dedicated to helping retirees achieve the retirement they deserve. From crafting personalized retirement income strategies to providing a single location for all your retirement solutions, our goal is to guide you every step of the way. Let us help you navigate the complexities of retirement so that you can enjoy financial confidence and peace of mind. Visit Us: 1700 Woodlands Drive, Maumee, OH 43537 Call Us: 419-794-3030 Learn More: ARHQ.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rural Health News is a weekly segment of Rural Health Today, a podcast by Hillsdale Hospital. News sources for this episode: Kevin B. O'Reilly, “8 wins for doctors, patients in latest federal budget deal,” February 3, 2026, https://www.ama-assn.org/health-care-advocacy/federal-advocacy/8-wins-doctors-patients-latest-federal-budget-deal, American Medical Association. Selena Simmons-Duffin, “With an ACA fix uncertain in the Senate, Republicans replay old health care fights,” February 2, 2026, https://www.npr.org/2026/02/02/nx-s1-5695766/aca-enhanced-premium-subsidies-republicans-democrats, NPR. Shannon Schumaker, et al. “KFF Health Tracking Poll: Health Care Costs, Expiring ACA Tax Credits, and the 2026 Midterms,” January 29, 2026, https://www.kff.org/public-opinion/kff-health-tracking-poll-health-care-costs-expiring-aca-tax-credits-and-the-2026-midterms/, KFF Health News. Ashley Kirsinger, et al. “KFF Health Tracking Poll: Prior Authorizations Rank as Public's Biggest Burden When Getting Health Care,” February 2, 2026, https://www.kff.org/public-opinion/kff-health-tracking-poll-prior-authorizations-rank-as-publics-biggest-burden-when-getting-health-care/, KFF Health News. Paige Twenter, “A $20,500 cap on federal student loans will strain PA workforce: Survey,” February 4, 2026, https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/quality/hospital-physician-relationships/a-20500-cap-on-federal-student-loans-will-strain-pa-workforce-survey/, Becker's Hospital Review. Rural Health Today is a production of Hillsdale Hospital in Hillsdale, Michigan and a member of the Health Podcast Network. Our host is JJ Hodshire, our producer is Kyrsten Newlon, and our audio engineer is Kenji Ulmer. Special thanks to our special guests for sharing their expertise on the show, and also to the Hillsdale Hospital marketing team. If you want to submit a question for us to answer on the podcast or learn more about Rural Health Today, visit ruralhealthtoday.com.

What if your money could do more than sit in a retirement account?This month on Smart Women Talk, we're joined by Marcia Dawood, global leader in angel investing and author of Doing Good While Doing Well, for a conversation that will completely change how you think about investing.Marcia breaks down what angel investing actually is (no finance degree required), why women are uniquely wired to be exceptional investors, and how anyone—yes, even with as little as $100—can invest in ideas, founders, and innovations they care about.You'll learn:What angel investing really means (and how it's different from Shark Tank)Why women founders receive only ~2% of venture capital—and how that can changeHow to start investing with your values, not just your walletCreative ways to invest using donor-advised funds, IRAs, and equity crowdfundingSimple, low-risk first steps to explore this world without feeling overwhelmedIf you've ever wanted your money to reflect what matters most to you, this episode is a must-listen.Marcia Dawood is an early-stage investor and national leader in expanding women's access to capital, now championing a bold new message with her forthcoming book, Unapologetic Wealth: Rewrite Your Money Story from Any Beginning  (March 10, 2026).As Chair of the SEC's Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee, a venture partner with Mindshift Capital, and chair emeritus of the Angel Capital Association, she has helped rewrite the rules of who gets to build and benefit from innovation.She founded the ACA's Growing Women's Capital Group and has invested in more than 50 early-stage companies and funds, always pushing for diversity, impact, and financial agency. Marcia is also the award-winning author of Do Good While Doing Well and a TEDx speaker whose work inspires women to step into wealth with confidence and zero apology.Connect with Marcia at MarciaDawood.com.DISCLAIMER: The information Smart Women's Empowerment and Smart Women Talk provides is for general informational purposes only. All information is provided in good faith; however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE SHALL WE HAVE ANY LIABILITY TO YOU FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND INCURRED AS A RESULT OF THE USE OF OR RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. We cannot and do not offer financial and/or medical advice. The information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals before taking any actions based on such information.

Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Senior Editor Kathleen Haddad back to the pod to discuss the recently passed $1.2 trillion spending appropriations bill, its included reforms for pharmacy benefit managers, the latest round of drugs slated for the Medicare Drug Negotiation program, TrumpRx, the upcoming flat rate for Medicare Advantage plan rates, and more recent health policy news.Related Articles:Congress Reins In Drug Middlemen In Effort to Lower Prescription Prices (The New York Times)Analyzing The Drugs Selected For The 2028 Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Cycle (Health Affairs Forefront)The No UPCODE Act: Considering A Simple Start To A Complex Problem (Health Affairs Forefront)PRESS RELEASE: CMS Announces Selection of Drugs for Third Cycle of Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, Including First-Ever Part B Drugs

In this kickoff episode of the Past Presidents Profile series, host Kayla Greer sits down with former Alabama Cattlemen's Association (ACA) president Richard Meadows of Houston County. Richard shares his roots at Meadows Creek Farm, how early involvement in 4‑H, Auburn University's Department of Animal Sciences, and industry networking shaped his path to leadership, and how the association supported his family during a life‑changing medical crisis. The conversation explores Richard's experiences guiding the ACA through a staff leadership transition, the importance of scholarships and youth programs, and the impact of the ACA's advocacy.

How much you need to retire quiz: https://bit.ly/Adam-OlsonMost people think they're “getting ready” for retirement between ages 60 and 67.In reality, this is when many retirees quietly sabotage their entire plan.In this episode, I break down 9 common purchases people make before age 62 that seem smart—but actually destroy flexibility, increase taxes, and cost tens of thousands of dollars over time .You'll learn:Why the 60–67 window is the most tax-sensitive period of your entire financial lifeHow early annuities, insurance, renovations, and debt payoffs can backfireThe hidden impact these decisions have on Roth conversions, ACA subsidies, IRMAA, and Social Security timingReal client examples where “good intentions” led to massive opportunity lossWhat you should spend money on instead during the Retirement Red ZoneThis episode is especially important if you're within 5–7 years of retirement and want to protect your income, lower lifetime taxes, and stay in control—without locking yourself into irreversible decisions.If you want help sequencing your income the right way and avoiding the mistakes that derail most retirements, check the link in the show notes.How much you need to retire quiz: https://bit.ly/Adam-OlsonInvesting involves risk, including loss of principal. Be sure to understand the benefits and limitations of your available options and consider all factors prior to making any financial decisions. Any strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Adam Olson, Representative. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services is not affiliated with any entity listed herein. This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services and its representatives do not offer legal or tax advice. The information presented is subject to change without notice and is not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security or insurance product.Mutual of Omaha Investor Services and its various affiliates do not endorse or adopt comments posted by third parties. Comments posted by third parties are their own and may not be representative or indicative of other's opinions, views, and experiences.

You've built a nest egg between one and five million dollars—now the real work begins. We walk through the decisions that matter most in the first years of retirement, where timing your exit, securing healthcare before 65, and designing tax-aware withdrawals can add up to six figures over a lifetime. Instead of chasing market headlines, we focus on how to turn assets into a resilient paycheck that funds real goals.We start with the power of timing. Leaving in February versus July could mean capturing a final profit-sharing contribution, an RSU vest, or an extra month of employer coverage. From there, we unpack the healthcare maze: ACA marketplace plans and how income management can unlock subsidies, individual policies from major carriers, underwritten options that trade medical questions for lower premiums, and employer early-retiree plans that keep you in a familiar network. The throughline is control—matching your medical needs, doctor access, and budget while avoiding surprise gaps before Medicare starts at 65.Taxes drive the second half of the conversation. The 4% rule isn't a plan; the order of withdrawals is. We explain how filling tax brackets with partial Roth conversions can lower lifelong taxes and reduce the shock of required minimum distributions that might otherwise push you into higher rates and raise Medicare premiums. Asset location, rebalancing discipline, and a sensible cash buffer all support steady income while limiting forced sales. Then we connect the dots to Social Security: when delaying pays, how to cover the gap years, and why the best claiming decision depends on your health coverage and cash flow plan.Under all of this sits one question: what is the money for? Whether it's travel, a second home, helping grandkids, or simply not worrying about markets, clarity on purpose sets the right risk level and spending rhythm. Subscribe, share this episode with someone planning their exit, and leave a review with your top retirement question—we may feature it in a future show. Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Roger Whitney kicks off a month-long series on navigating health care before Medicare, introducing Cerberus—the three-headed dog of Greek mythology—as a framework for understanding the biggest challenges retirees face when leaving employer-sponsored coverage. He breaks down the three heads of Cerberus, answers listener questions about retirement planning, and shares recent book recommendations from himself and the team.OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(00:00) This show is dedicated to helping you not just survive retirement, but have the confidence to lean in and rock it.(00:30) Roger introduces the Cerberus framework and outlines the four-week series on health care before Medicare.HEALTH CARE BEFORE MEDICARE: THE THREE HEADS OF CERBERUS(02:20) Roger explains why retiring before Medicare requires a strategy and introduces the three “heads” of the health care Cerberus.(03:11) “Head” #1: The true cost of health care without an employer subsidy and why it creates sticker shock in retirement, especially when paid from pre-tax accounts.(10:50) “Head” #2: Coverage challenges, including narrower networks, fewer plan options, and the potential loss of trusted doctors and specialists.(15:13) “Head” #3: Increased complexity in choosing plans, managing care, and navigating ACA subsidies based on modified adjusted gross income.LISTENER QUESTIONS & OBSERVATIONS(19:20) Roger responds to listener questions about saving discipline, the 4% rule, geographic cost differences, values-based planning, and how taxes are modeled in retirement case studies.SMART SPRINT(33:00) Roger encourages listeners to review the health care assumptions in their retirement plan, especially for those retiring before Medicare age.WHAT'S ON THE BOOKSHELF(34:14) Roger and the team share recent book recommendations, including history, personal finance, purpose, habits, and wealth.REFERENCESSubmit a Question for RogerSign up for The NoodleThe Retirement Answer ManKaiser Family Foundation (KFF)Healthcare.gov

In this episode of 1st Talk Compliance, Kevin Chmura is joined by Robyn Johns, as they discuss recent updates to their November live webinar, Compliance Cliffs: Navigating Telehealth Waivers and Reimbursement Changes. Learn how the policy landscape has shifted in recent months—especially around telehealth flexibilities, controlled substance prescribing, and the 2026 CMS payment rules.   Kevin Chmura Welcome to 1st Talk Compliance. I’m Kevin Chmura, CEO of Panacea Healthcare Solutions. Today we’re bringing you a timely update on our November live webinar, Compliance Cliffs: Navigating Telehealth Waivers and Reimbursement Changes. Since that webinar, several policy changes have moved quickly, especially in telehealth flexibilities. Controlled substance prescribing and 2026 CMS payment rules. Before we jump in, just a quick note. 1st Talk Compliance is brought to you by 1st Healthcare Compliance, a part of Panacea Healthcare Solutions. We help healthcare organizations strengthen their compliance programs with practical education tools and compliance management support. So teams can reduce risk, keep pace with regulatory change and operate with confidence. Now I’m pleased to welcome back Robyn Johns from Med USA. Robyn, thanks for coming back. Robyn Johns Thanks, Kevin. I’m happy to be here. Kevin Chmura  Great. So, let’s jump in. So, in November on the webinar, we spent a lot of time on what people were calling the telehealth cliff, which was creating a tremendous amount of uncertainty on whether flexibilities would expire. Can you catch us up on what the status is now? Robyn Johns  Yeah. The major update is that the spending package released on January 20th includes extensions of the telehealth flexibilities all the way through December 31st of 2027. Kevin Chmura So that’s a pretty meaningful runway. That’s great, but I guess doesn’t eliminate compliance obligations, but it is reducing near-term uncertainty which give everybody some time to standardize workflows. So, it’s in the news, but maybe you could tell. So, what’s in the spending package at a high level and what should healthcare leaders like us be paying attention to? Robyn Johns   Right. So, it was the one from the 20th was a $1.2 trillion spending package released by the House Appropriations Committee and it was just passed yesterday on the 22nd in two separate votes by the full House. So, those bills included the remaining six of the twelve appropriations necessary to avert a government shutdown. So that’s good news for everyone. If we can get them across the finish line, they funded many of the federal government agencies such as HHS, Labor, Defense, HUD, and also Homeland Security. That was a contentious one. That’s why they had to do two separate votes. It funds them through fiscal year 2026, which ends on September 30th of this year. Kevin Chmura  So, OK, so we have a funding package with multiple healthcare policy riders. Not, I guess not too surprising in today’s day and age. So, besides the telehealth through 2027, what else is included in there that compliance and operational leaders should know about? Robyn Johns   So the writers also include PBM reform and it extends hospital at home actually through 2030, which is another one that hit a lot of facilities hard with the government shutdown. It extends Medicare dependent hospital and low volume hospital programs, which is really beneficial for our rural providers and it delays the Medicaid disproportionate share cut again until fiscal year 2028. Notably, for a lot of people, it does not include an extension of the ACA subsidies, which were such a sticking point in the government shutdown last fall. Kevin Chmura  Yeah, that that that last point is operationally really important and coverage instability often turns into eligibility churn and puts real pair mix pressures on the you know same patients, different coverage, right.? And that’s just you know probably increases downstream compliance and documentation stress. Yeah that’s a that’s a tough one. So what’s the timing of congressional action now? Robyn Johns So with the House passing all of the bills, they now send the full appropriations package to the Senate. The Senate will take all of that up when they return from recess on Monday the 26th, and will hopefully pass them all ahead of the January 30th deadline. And hopefully without any significant changes which might require them to go back to the house because the house will be on recess next week. Kevin Chmura  Wow. So split schedule, it’s why we should keep ourselves in a monitoring posture. I guess we should always be monitoring, but things are moving pretty quickly right now and you sort of get into that world of what is expected is not what’s in effect. Which is always, always a tough place to operate, but hey, that’s healthcare, isn’t it? So, given the extension to 2027, in your opinion, what should compliance teams be doing now? Like what’s some practical next steps? Robyn Johns First, you’ll want to make sure that your internal policies and educational materials reflect what’s currently in effect. No major changes since most of those telehealth things were extended, but it’s always good to double check because lots of things change around the beginning of the year. Also validate your payer specific rules. Medicare policy direction is influential, but commercial payers and state laws differ. So, you got to make sure that you are matching up with those differences. And then third, we should we talk about strengthening your auditing of documentation, the modifiers, your place of service, medical necessity, all of those things that can vary depending on the payer and the specific situation of the patient. Kevin Chmura  Yeah, that that payer variation point is where a lot of organizations end up being exposed, I guess, right? Telehealth’s not really governed by one rule. You’ve got federal policy, state overlays, and then you have commercial policy updates really coming at you a number of different ways. So, I guess a good controls to maintain maybe a payer policy matrix and try to align it into your documentation and coding guidance. Probably a solid piece of advice. Robyn Johns   Absolutely. Kevin Chmura   Yeah. So, let’s move on to probably one of the highest risk areas that we covered in the webinar, and that’s controlled substance prescribing via telehealth. What’s the latest there? Robyn Johns   Good news there as well. At the end of the year, DEA and HHS extended the telehealth flexibilities for prescribing controlled substances through this year, December 31st of 2026. There are a few rules that can apply, but because they extended the flexibilities, it’s pretty much status quo until they change it again at the end of the year. Kevin Chmura   Cool, so that’s a critical compliance area because of the high risk profile and it that really includes some regulatory scrutiny and enforcement, not really just a reimbursement issue. Robyn Johns   Yes, it’s highly watched. Kevin Chmura   Yeah. And I guess as well, it should be. So given that, what control should organizations prioritize right now to reduce risk in that area? Robyn Johns  Definitely you’ll want to have clear prescribing policies, good documentation standards, and role-based training. Also, usually they want to include identity verification and required checks when they’re applicable, and consistent auditing to ensure that your process is followed, not just written down. This is another area where state regulations can vary, so you would want to make sure that you are compliant in every state where you see patients. Kevin Chmura   Yes and you’re the expert, not me. But I guess I’d add if you expand health to if you expand the telehealth quickly, take time now to ensure your governance is mature. And I’m thinking credentialing, supervision, documentation and audit trails always the basics that can help you pulled up under scrutiny. Robyn Johns   Definitely. When you expand quickly, sometimes you sacrifice certain things for speed. So, you have a minute now to go back now that you’re sure that those policies aren’t changing anytime soon to just go back and make sure that everything’s in place, all of those areas. Kevin Chmura  Yeah, I mean like any business runs better and with certainty, but at healthcare we rarely have that. So, great. So, moving on to the 2026 CMS updates that that we talked about a little bit. So, there’s been some changes in payment policy that are driving operational changes and it’s where those operational changes come in, where we introduce compliance risks if teams can’t keep pace and often they can’t. So, what are the 2026 physician fee schedule highlights? Robyn Johns   Yeah. So, we talked about these back in November and of course they went into place at the beginning of this year. So, a little bit of good news there with the conversion factor. It included the 2.5% increase that had been mandated by Congress. It also included a .75% increase for clinicians in advanced APMs or a .25% increase for clinicians who participate in MIPS or who are exempt. And then there was also a .49 budget neutrality increase. Kevin Chmura So, so the real impact varies by payer mix, site of service and quality of participation. What about RVU related changes? Robyn Johns   So that’s kind of the devil in the details there. It also implemented a -2.5% efficiency adjustment on certain non-time based services to the physician work RVU and there is also a + or -50% practice expense RVU adjustment for facility based services. So, it’s -50% if it’s facility based services or a +50% for non-facility based services. Kevin Chmura   Wow. So site of service is increasingly strategic and it’s where we see compliance issues often arise, right? You get inconsistent documentation, coding and policy adoptions across different departments and locations. Certainly not easy. Robyn Johns   No. Something you definitely need to watch closely because it is different depending on where you are and what services you’re providing. Kevin Chmura   Yeah. So, one other hotspot or another hotspot that that we often see is incident to. What's going on there? Robyn Johns  So the physician fee schedule in that they updated the definition of direct supervision for incident to billing to permanently allow supervision through real-time audio video communication except for services that have a 10 or a 90-day global surgery period. So, the supervising physician no longer has to be physically present in the office suite, they just have to be immediately available through real time audio video communication. Kevin Chmura   OK, so that’s operationally pretty significant, right? But I guess the compliance take away is relatively simple. If you’re using remote supervision, your incident to workflows must be precise. I guess who supervises, how it’s documented, and where the exceptions apply as precise as you can make all of those, huh? Robyn Johns   Yes, absolutely. Because you are relying on remote supervision, you’ll want to make sure that that is documented very effectively. Kevin Chmura   Yeah, cool. So, what about the OPPS and ASC final rule highlights for 2026? Robyn Johns Yeah. For those that these apply to, there was a 2.6% increase as well in the payment rates. They also expanded hospital price transparency requirements and we’re seeing a lot more attention and probably enforcement in that as well. There was a three-year phase out of the inpatient only list. Site neutral payments were expanded to include Drug Administration Services and the ASC covered procedures list is expanded much in relation to the inpatient only list Phase out. Kevin Chmura Yeah, that that that that’s an interesting one. So the phase out of the inpatient only list is a real operational shift and it’s one of those opportunities for providers to move volume to better cost locations, but really your compliance needs to follow those patients, right and where you’re having them. And so, when your volume moves, audits and education have to move with it, which is probably a challenge and what we know and we at our parent company, at Panacea, price transparency just remains a compliance and reputational priority because failures lead to penalties, but bad data also leads to a lot of scrutiny. So, good that there’s some, you know some guidance there, but it’s clear that those are going to be things that really need to be paid attention to from a compliance perspective. Robyn Johns Yes, for sure. Kevin Chmura So it was hard to watch the news over the last, I don’t know, six to twelve months without talking about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. So, we’ve been tracking it. I know you’ve been tracking it. So, what’s the timing on practice impacts that you expect? Robyn Johns So most of those One Big Beautiful Bill Act Medicaid requirements that are likely to impact practices, they don’t actually begin until January of 2027. So, practices still have some time to continue their assessment and preparation for those. The immigrant eligibility changes do take effect on October 1st of this year, 2026. So that’s a little bit shorter period of time, but you do have a little bit of time to continue to figure out how that may affect your practice if you have a high number of Medicaid patients, and prepare for the ways that you can offset those eligibility changes and payment requirements. Kevin Chmura Yeah, that clarity on the effective dates really can help teams allocate resources correctly and that’s often a challenge especially when you’re tracking proposed rules versus final rules and not sure when things will go into effect. So that’s good. So, as you’re looking out on the landscape in 2026, what are some of your top compliance priorities that you’re advising organizations to focus on? Robyn Johns Yeah, we’re currently focused on probably five or so top priorities for 2026, not in any specific order, but we are watching data privacy and security. Part of that is because HIPAA updates are underway to both the privacy and security rules, though timelines are unclear. We’re not sure when or i f we’ll see any final rules on those, but we do know that healthcare remains a prime target of cyber-attacks, so we have to constantly be vigilant to that and related to that, but also separately, is AI and other emerging technologies. AI is changing the landscape for the types of attacks we receive, but also the way we have to respond to them. It also is changing the landscape of healthcare generally, both in the provider office and at the payers and at the government. Those other emerging technologies like digital tools, those can increase the compliance risk in your environment, and we need to remember that both government and commercial payers are using AI to identify outlier claims faster and increase their auditing. Then we also have the fraud, waste and abuse enforcement. CMS we know has currently been focused a lot on Medicare Advantage, but that scrutiny can shift oversight over to providers as well because that’s where so much of the data that the Medicare Advantage plans use comes from. The OID also continues to focus on telehealth. There are other focuses are drug device and biologics and program integrity areas such as DME, Hospice and Drug Administration. So, want to make sure that you’re watching all of those if you practice there. Fourth one we have is vendor and third-party oversight. Many of the largest breaches that have we’ve seen have originated with third parties. So, organizations really need to make sure that you have careful oversight and maintain good monitoring on your third-party vendors and others who may have access to your systems and data. And finally, we know we’re going to continue to see those rapid regulatory updates. Federal and state changes often conflict. We have lots of states that are currently in their legislative period. So that will bring out some changes. And then in addition to that, commercial payers are tightening their policies and auditing in response to the pressures that are being put on that on them, whether from the government or just from a financial perspective. Kevin Chmura Yeah, it is something the pace of acceleration of some of the advances in technology and how they how they’re going to impact us. But I guess you know that’s really the reality of 2026 and beyond. You’re going to see an uptick in in in speed to policy changes, faster detection, which will be something and probably more third-party exposure as we rely on more and more vendors and others to help us do what we need to do every day, but I’m sure you know the advice I’ve heard you give many times and we have to agree with it. A strong compliance program has to be built to adapt. That means clear governance, repeatable monitoring and targeted auditing tied to the current risk with an eye on the future and where everything’s going. Robyn Johns Yeah, definitely. It’s an exciting time, lots of opportunities for improving our programs and really tightening things up to make sure that we’re protecting ourselves and all the information that we are responsible for. Kevin Chmura Yeah, great. So, Robyn, thank you for the update and for helping our listeners translate policy movement into practical compliance actions. To everyone listening, if you want the full context and deeper discussion, you can access the webinar on demand at 1st Healthcare Compliance’s website. It’s called Compliance Cliffs: Navigating Telehealth Waivers and Reimbursement Changes. Thank you for listening to 1st Talk Compliance and we’ll see you next time. Thanks, Robyn. Robyn Johns Thanks, Kevin.

Learn about ACA subsidies and their requirements to help your clients save on health insurance!   Read the text version  

Alick shares his experience, strength, and hope about recovering from growing up in an alcoholic / dysfunctional home using the 12 steps of ACA.

Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security timing for HSA contributions, investing in a SPIA vs buffered ETFs, and using SEPP 72(t) income to manage ACA credits.(7:00) A listener describes delaying a Social Security filing to avoid Medicare Part A backdating that would have reduced prior-year HSA contributions, while still receiving full retroactive benefits.(28:00) Georgette asks what to do with money originally set aside for a condo purchase, weighing ETFs against buying a single premium immediate annuity (SPIA), given an existing fixed indexed annuity (FIA), and pension income that cover living expenses.(55:45) The guys address whether a SPIA purchased inside a rollover IRA can be used to satisfy SEPP 72(t) rules while keeping income low enough to preserve max ACA credits. The post Social Security, SPIAs, SEPP 72(t): Q&A #2605 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

The 4% rule has a major flaw: it doesn't account for healthcare costs. If you're planning to retire early, health insurance premiums will rise sharply as you age—from your 30s through your 60s before Medicare kicks in at 65. This isn't speculation; it's how the U.S. healthcare system works under the ACA. On this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down why early retirees need a bigger financial buffer than traditional FIRE calculations suggest. Learn the real cost of healthcare in early retirement, strategies to reduce expenses (geographical arbitrage, health shares, catastrophic coverage), why you can't rely on ACA subsidies long-term, and how to build a healthcare plan that won't derail your path to financial independence. To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources Subscribe on YouTube for even more content Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners We believe financial independence is attainable for anyone no matter when or where you're starting. Let's get your financial house in order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Katie Keith of Georgetown Law and Deputy Editor Chris Fleming to the pod to discuss what to watch out for in 2026 for health policy. The conversation touches on Affordable Care Act subsidies, Medicaid eligibility, guidance for pharmacy benefit managers, drug price negotiations, and more.This week, we announced that Health Affairs has become Health Affairs Publishing, LLC, a single-member limited liability company wholly owned by Project HOPE. To find out more about this exciting new chapter, check out this Forefront piece.Join us for the following events:2/17: The FDA and Its Changing Relationship to Industry2/25: What Excites Insiders About Health Care in 2026?Become an Insider today to get access to these exclusive events.Related Links:Health Policy At A Crossroads: What To Watch In 2026 (Health Affairs Forefront)Prescription Drug Policy, 2025 And 2026: The Year In Review And The Year Ahead (Health Affairs Forefront)

In this episode, we preview the 2026 ACA National Conference, happening February 17-20 in San Diego, CA. We talk about what makes this four-plus-day experience so valuable for camp professionals, from learning opportunities, networking, volunteering, and more. Whether this is your first ACA National Conference or you've attended for years, this episode will help you understand what to expect — and why it's worth being there. Show notes: 2026 ACA National Conference Schedule at a Glance 2026 Community Service Project Mobile App Volunteer Opportunities The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

Minnesota leaders faced tough questions from residents at a CNN town hall about the unrest in the city. White House and Senate leaders inch closer to a deal to avoid another government shutdown. President Donald Trump continues weighing a potential strike on Iran as talks between Washington and Tehran falter. Fewer Americans have signed up for ACA coverage in the wake of premium subsidies expiring. Plus, why Tesla is pulling back from the vehicles that made it a household name.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a textA hot take roared across X: “HR is useless—fire 90% and business will run happier.” We lean into the controversy and pull it apart with real stories, practical examples, and a clear look at where HR earns its seat. From ADA moments that avoid lawsuits to manager coaching that prevents blowups, we show how accountability—not buzzwords—separates meaningful work from noise.First, we swap winter war stories and a few travel mishaps, then pivot to a candid breakdown of a truly awful presentation and the simple fixes that make complex information land: fewer codes, more context, cleaner slides, and clear narrative. That sets the stage for the debate that follows. We explore why the anti-HR sentiment resonates for some employees, how corporate language can block trust, and why AI won't replace HR but will reveal which teams do real leadership. Compliance is not a punchline; it's the baseline. Risk management is not fear; it's care with foresight.We get specific. Need a special chair for back pain? Handle it fast, document it, and move on—protecting the company while treating the person with respect. We talk through the less visible wins: Secure 2.0 changes, ACA and ADA realities, and the slow, unglamorous work of turning laws into payroll and process that actually function. Then we spotlight a growing threat to candidates: recruiter impersonation scams that exploit hope and urgency. You'll get crisp verification steps to stay safe, plus a reminder to trust your gut when something feels off.We wrap with community shout-outs and a simple invite to text us from the show notes. If you care about real HR, better leadership, and cutting through rage bait with practical, human solutions, this one's for you. Subscribe, share with a manager who needs it, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.Support the showWe want to hear from you.Text us or leave a voicemail (252) 564-9899‬email: feedback@jadedhr.comWant to:* Share a dumb employee question* Share a crazy story* Ask us a question* Share a best practice * Give us feedback Our Link Tree below has links to our social media sites, Patreon, Apple podcasts, Spotify & more.Please leave a review on your favorite podcast player and interact with us online!Linktree - https://linktr.ee/jadedhrFollow Cee Cee on IG - BoozyHR @ https://www.instagram.com/boozy_hr/

Beate shares her experience, strength, and hope about recovering from growing up in an alcoholic / dysfunctional home using the 12 steps of ACA.

M shares her experience, strength, and hope about recovering from growing up in an alcoholic / dysfunctional home using the 12 steps of ACA.

Craig Garthwaite, Professor of Strategy and Director of Healthcare at Kellogg, joins MBA students Ashley Lemon and Kaiya Adam to discuss what's next for the healthcare ecosystem in 2026. Fresh off the heels of the JPM Healthcare Conference, they unpack the latest dynamics across sub-sectors, including: The future of GLP-1sWill AI actually make drugs cheaperHow the IRA might impact drug developmentWhat's next for MA, ACA, and Medicaid marketsHow to think about hospital system economicsHow LLMs will reshape outcomes and regulationWhat policymakers get wrongRapid fire Q&A Visit our podcast page for more episodes on trends and innovation in healthcare, and follow our socials so you never miss an update.

Episode 235: The fifth and final week of our Christmas with Corman month brings to us 1964's The Masque of the Red Death.  A Poe classic starring Vincent Price. With honorary fourth member, Nichole of Light & Shadow: A Horror Podcast.Make sure to join us next week, when we stomp into the new year with our Kaijuary theme for big monsters in the month of January with 2023's Godzilla Minus One.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/a-cut-above-horror-review--6354278/support.

(January 27,2025) Shutdown possible as democrats revolt over ICE enforcement. What is the ‘Kavanaugh Stop? Tech giants head to landmark trial over social media addiction claims. Some states expand ACA subsidies as federal tax credits lapse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is affordable healthcare still possible to attain in this day and age?In this episode of WTF, Tracy, Dr. Krista, and Dr. Betty discuss the reality of healthcare in the US. From insurance companies, to the overall cost of healthcare treatments, and how the medical system is less for the people and more for profit - how can people survive their medical conditions but also stay away from bankruptcy?Join us as we determine what things we are able to control but also get educated on what changes can be implemented in the system to get affordable and accessible healthcare. ______________________________________________________Keep yourself up to date on The DNA Talks Podcast! Follow our socials below:The DNA Talks Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnatalkspodcast/Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

Gbenga Ajilore analyzes how recent policy changes are creating challenges for rural communities. Topics include rural hospitals facing closure as ACA subsidies expire, electricity price increases amid clean energy program cancellations, and concerns about state-level management of food assistance programs.

"Obamacare Exempt" Plans - STLDI and ACA Coverage: Costs, Choice, and Tradeoffs Joe Grogan is joined by Michael Cannon (Cato Institute) to break down short-term, limited-duration insurance (STLDI), also known as “Obamacare-exempt” plans. They explain why STLDI can be far cheaper than ACA exchange coverage, how renewal guarantees work, and why allowing more consumer choice can reduce pressure on exchange risk pools. They also dig into the politics of pre-existing conditions, how ACA rules change insurers' incentives, and why coverage debates often miss the real drivers of cost, access, and quality. The conversation ends with a broader look at public trust, healthcare fear, and how policy choices shape what insurers can and cannot do. Timestamps / Chapters00:01 – Intro00:23 – Michael Cannon joins + what STLDI is02:27 – STLDI explained: “Obamacare-exempt” plans, renewal guarantees, and lower premiums06:00 – ACA history: why STLDI was restricted07:46 – International comparisons + pre-existing conditions incentives and the Colette Briggs story12:10 – Why healthcare stays broken: regulation, lobbying, and “government-designed” systems16:59 – Subsidies and the politics of pre-existing conditions22:22 – Renewal guarantees, employer tax exclusion, and why Medicare entered the picture30:37 – Public trust after Brian Thompson's murder and Cannon's letter41:56 – Wrap-up In This Conversation What STLDI is and how it compares to ACA exchange plans Why renewal guarantees matter for long-term protection Risk pools, affordability, and why the “junk insurance” debate persists Pre-existing conditions, politics, and how incentives affect networks and access Why employer-based coverage and Medicare policy shaped today's system Key Takeaways STLDI is a legal, consumer-driven coverage option that can reduce premiums and expand choice. Renewal guarantees are a major consumer protection that changes the long-term risk story. Pre-existing conditions policy is often debated emotionally, but incentives determine outcomes. About Our GuestMichael Cannon is the Director of Health Policy Studies at the Cato Institute and a leading voice on the ACA, health insurance regulation, and market-based health reforms.

From Corporate Leadership to Counseling Advocacy: An Interview with Iris Wilson-Farley Special Series: Becoming a Therapist In this special Becoming a Therapist series episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy welcome back Iris Wilson-Farley for a second-year check-in on her journey through graduate school. Iris reflects on how her expectations of training have shifted, what the internship search was really like in an online program, and how she's preparing to move into primarily in-person clinical work. She also shares how her background in corporate leadership informs her approach to professional development, advocacy, and research, with a growing focus on sexual wellness and gender-affirming care. About the Guest Iris Wilson-Farley is a second-career counselor-in-training and graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The Chicago School. After a 33-year career in corporate Human Resources and executive leadership, Iris is now focused on sexual wellness, gender-affirming care, and advocacy within the counseling profession. She is actively involved in professional organizations including ACA divisions focused on sexology and LGBTQIA+ identities and is working toward sex therapist certification through the Sexual Health Alliance. Key Takeaways How expectations often shift between the first and second year of graduate training What the internship search can look like in online counseling programs Preparing to transition from virtual learning to in-person clinical work How prior professional experience can shape identity and leadership in training The value of early involvement in advocacy, research, and professional organizations You can listen to Iris's first interview in the Becoming a Therapist series here:https://therapyreimagined.com/modern-therapist-podcast/finding-alignment-in-a-second-career-special-series-becoming-a-therapist-an-interview-with-iris-wilson-farley/ Find the full show notes and resources for this episode at:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/

Healthcare HR leaders are heading into one of the most consequential weeks of the year. In this episode of the ASHHRA Monday News Drop, Luke Carignan, Bo Brabo, and ASHHRA President & CEO Jeremy Sadlier unpack three fast-moving developments that demand immediate attention from HR, finance, and executive teams. Segment 1: A Tale of Two Coasts While New York nurses return to work after securing historic staffing protections, the West Coast is waking up to a massive escalation. More than 31,000 healthcare workers across California and Hawaii, including nurses, pharmacists, and imaging professionals, have launched an open-ended strike over staffing ratios and wages tied to inflation. HR reality check: The contagion effect is real. Enforceable staffing guarantees are now the most powerful organizing and recruiting tool in healthcare. Union or not, organizations that fail to visibly address staffing risk becoming the next target. Segment 2: The Telehealth Hail Mary With just days remaining before the January 30 deadline, the House has passed a two-year extension of Medicare telehealth flexibilities. The Senate still must act. A lapse, even for 48 hours, could trigger denied claims and major revenue disruption. Actionable guidance: Do not dismantle telehealth infrastructure. Instruct revenue cycle teams to hold telehealth claims from February 1–3 until Senate confirmation is secured. This single step could prevent a costly billing crisis. Segment 3: The “Great Healthcare Plan” and PBM Reform The White House has released a new healthcare framework emphasizing aggressive PBM reform and price transparency, while notably stepping away from enhanced ACA subsidies. Premium pressure for employees is likely to persist. HR opportunity: PBM reform is not just a finance issue. Use this moment to demand transparency from your benefits partners, audit rebate structures, and identify savings that can help offset rising employee costs. This Week's Focus: • Monitor West Coast labor activity and prepare for patient surges • Protect telehealth revenue during legislative uncertainty • Reassess staffing strategy, benefits cost exposure, and PBM risk Healthcare HR is no longer adjacent to strategy. It is central to it.  From Our Sponsor(s)...Optimize Pharmacy Benefits with RxBenefitsElevate your employee benefits while managing costs. Did you know hospital employees fill 25% more prescriptions annually than other industries? Ensure cost-effective, high-quality pharmacy plans by leveraging your hospital's own pharmacies. Discover smarter strategies with RxBenefits.Learn More here - https://rxbene.fit/3ZaurZN  Support the show

In a major blow to American healthcare, Congress has let the ACA subsidies expire. This means higher premiums and, as a result, fewer Americans enrolling. We are joined by Wendell Potter, former VP of Corporate Communications for Cigna turned whistleblower and healthcare reform advocate. Since 2009, Wendell has pulled back the curtain on how insurance giants game the system to prioritize profits over patients.Wendell shares the two stories demonstrating the inhumanity of the American healthcare system that pushed him to speak out. He also talks about the impact of the expiring subsidies and why it could be what he calls a "death spiral." But don't worry! Donald Trump has a plan... or at least concepts of a plan.Al and Wendell talk about the accomplishments of the ACA, while also acknowledging that Democrats should have done more to strengthen it during the Biden administration. Now with Trump and the Republicans in charge, any chance at meaningful reform is out the window.Plus, we revisit the December 2024 murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson and why that struck a nerve with so many Americans.READ Wendell's substack, HEALTH CARE un-covered: https://healthcareuncovered.substack.com/SUPPORT THE SHOW BY VISITING OUR SPONSORA smarter way to handle your shipping needs! Try ShipStation free for 60 days at https://www.shipstation.com and enter the code FRANKEN.

Should you retire the second you hit financial independence, or is there value in working just a little longer? Steven faced this exact decision at 40 and chose to work four more years. The result? He added $1 million to his net worth and entered retirement at 44 with $3.5 million and a bulletproof plan. In this conversation, Steven shares his complete early retirement strategy, including why he delayed retirement past his FI number, how those extra years set him up for flexible spending of $120K-$180K annually, and the specific withdrawal tactics he uses to optimize taxes and health insurance subsidies. This Episode Covers: Steven's journey from engineer to early retirement at 44 Why he chose to work four more years after hitting his FI number Career transitions and strategic income optimization Investment strategy and asset allocation for early retirement Planning the transition to early retirement Flexible spending strategy: $120K-$180K annual range Navigating the ACA subsidy cliff for health insurance Strategic Roth conversions and tax optimization Safe withdrawal rates and managing inflation Starting new business ventures in early retirement What daily life actually looks like in early retirement at 44 Steven's story proves that "one more year syndrome" isn't always fear-based procrastination—sometimes it's strategic planning that pays off big. Whether you're close to your FI number or just beginning your journey, his practical approach offers a roadmap for retiring early with confidence. Follow BiggerPockets Money: Website: https://www.biggerpocketsmoney.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biggerpocketsmoney/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Health Affairs' Jeff Byers welcomes Gabriel Perna, Deputy Editor of Digital Health Business & Technology at Modern Healthcare, to the pod to discuss Epic Systems, how they became one of the leading American health care EHR companies, a recent antitrust lawsuit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton against Epic Systems, and even touch on ChatGPT's entrance into health care.Related Articles:Texas files antitrust suit against Epic over health data (Modern Healthcare)Texas hits Epic with an antitrust suit: Here's what to know (Modern Healthcare)

Our very first live show of 2026 is also the inaugural live show from Seattle! On this episode we chat more in depth about Seattle biking adventures to come, both locally and launched from here, give a quick Brompton update, an even briefer ACA update, and then a bunch of questions in the live show AMA! Live from Seattle Thoughts on Seattle as a bike launching point Local trails Gateway to multiple adventures Vancouver crossing loop Pacific coast Washington Parks STP SEA direct flights Year round cycling Brompton update ACA Building Sale Seems like the sale of the building is serving as a proxy on "do you like how things are going" Conflates a lot of stuff, which makes sorting through a lot of the arguments to be tricky Make sure you vote, and I think we all are hoping whatever ACA does in 2026 and beyond that it stays as a major voice in bike travel adventures!

Leslie is joined by Jody Calemine, Director of Advocacy for the 63 Unions and 15 million members of the AFL-CIO. The two review President Trump's first year of his second term, and how it's been filled with relentless attacks on workers during his pursuit of 'Project 2025.' However, they also discuss how the labor movement is fighting back, and winning! The administration: committed the single biggest-act of union-busting in history,  launched a brutal assault on immigrants and communities across the country, ripped health care from millions, made billionaires richer and corporations more powerful, moved to unleash untested AI technology, And dismantled government agencies that provide essential services.  President Trump promised to “make America affordable again,” but instead, he spent a year driving up costs, holding down wages and letting jobs disappear—including jobs that would keep energy bills from skyrocketing.  But in the face of relentless attacks on our livelihoods and freedoms, workers are turning to unions to fight back. And we're winning.  In December we saw the first sprouts of victory when a bipartisan group of lawmakers canceled votes on the SCORE Act, succumbing to pressure after months of organizing from the labor movement. Then before the year ended, a group of bipartisan lawmakers passed a discharge petition advancing one of labor's top priorities: restoring federal workers collective bargaining rights. At the beginning of 2026, we saw lawmakers in the house rally around an extension of the ACA tax credits and a band of Republicans come together to sink a series of anti-worker labor bills. The website for the AFL-CIO is AFLCIO.org and their handle on Blue Sky is @AFLCIO.org. Their handle on Facebook, Instagram and X is @AFLCIO.  Jody's handle on Blue Sky is @guerino.bsky.social.

Today on AirTalk: The annual LA homeless count has begun (0:30) As the L.A. Central Library celebrates its centennial, we discuss its history and significance (16:40) How are community clinics responding to ACA subsidy expansions ending? (51:29) Do you like small talk with strangers? (1:23:46) Visit www.preppi.com/LAist to receive a FREE Preppi Emergency Kit (with any purchase over $100) and be prepared for the next wildfire, earthquake or emergency

Jim and Chris discuss listener questions on Social Security survivor benefits and divorce rules, a listener PSA on spousal benefits, HSA contribution limits, and whether annuities make sense versus Treasury bonds. (8:45) A listener asks whether someone who is newly widowed can claim survivor Social Security now, keep working part time, and later switch to their own benefit, and also asks whether you still offer a “coffee and second opinion” or an a la carte Social Security review. (23:00) The guys field a question from someone with two ex-spouses asking if it's possible to combine their own Social Security with part of either (or both) ex-spouses' benefits. (33:30) George shares a PSA on how filing for Social Security online triggered a spousal-benefit eligibility notice for their spouse, and how the follow-up phone appointment worked without needing an in-person visit or marriage certificate. (45:15) Jim and Chris answer a question about 2026 HSA contribution limits for two spouses on an ACA family plan who each opened their own HSA and want to avoid overfunding. (54:45) One writer asks why they should consider annuities given fees and insurer risk when they can buy 20-year Treasury bonds, and adds a quick note about simplifying word choice from a prior email discussion. The post Social Security, HSA, and Annuities: Q&A #2603 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

Protests intensify in Minneapolis after a second ICE-related shooting, as President Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota.Venezuela's top opposition leader brings her Nobel Peace Prize to Washington to press her case with President Trump, even as the U.S. signals support for an interim leader.And President Trump unveils what he calls a new healthcare plan, leaning on cheaper insurance with limited benefits as Congress debates the future of ACA subsidies.Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Cheryl Corley, Tara Neill, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.(0:00) Introduction(1:57) Trump and Minnesota(05:29) Venezuela's Opposition(09:20) Trump's Healthcare PlanLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

For five years, we’ve been following the work of Dollar For and its founder Jared Walker, watching them quickly scale up their efforts to help people crush medical debt by tapping into “charity care” — the financial assistance that hospitals are legally required to offer some patients. Their work represents what a small, scrappy, thoughtful group of people can do. Last year, their tiny staff helped wipe out more than $55 million in medical bills. As we kick off 2026, we thought it was time to check in again. After all, this will be a year when millions more people will have trouble covering their medical bills — when Dollar For’s work may become more important to more people, and when we’re hungry for more ways to help each other. As Jared tells it, 2025 proved to be a pivotal – yet rocky – period in the organization’s story. Both their successes and their challenges put into stark relief exactly what we’re all up against. So we go deep with Jared on what they achieved while they weathered the chaos, and what it might mean for their – and our collective – next moves. Here's a transcript of this episode. Check out our Starter Pack: How to wipe out your bill with charity care. And our previous coverage of Dollar For: Could billions in medical debt get zapped by the legal strategy from this 60-second video? (2021)We talked to Jared just weeks after Dollar For first went viral. The group’s early history — they’d been working locally for years — is fascinating. Badass volunteers help Jared level up, in the fight to crush medical debt (2021)Within six months, they’d recruited volunteers and built systems. The Medical Bill “Negotiation Lab” (2022)In an experiment aimed at scaling up impact, Dollar For tried a different approach in 2022. We sat in. One last tip before 2024 (2023)Why Jared thinks you should ask for “charity care” by name -- even though, let’s face it, asking for “charity” does not feel good to most of us. New lessons from the fight for charity care (2024)Dollar For spent 2024 focusing on the big picture and starting to focus on policy advocacy. Check out our history of charity care series (from 2021): A legendary lawyer sued hospitals for price-gouging their patients. And got his butt handed to him. Dickie Scruggs is the guy who beat Big Tobacco. But when he took on hospitals, he lost. The wild backstory of a tiny but crucial Obamacare provision (ft. David Axelrod)Charity care wasn’t part of federal law until the Affordable Care Act passed. A Republican senator made sure it was part of the ACA — before deciding he wouldn’t vote for the law. “We just kept right on pushing” … and laws changedIn New York, a grieving family’s story made headlines and helped advocates catch lawmakers’ attention. Wait, that was legal until now?!In 2021, Maryland barred hospitals from suing patients who qualified for charity care. Send your stories and questions. Or call 724 ARM-N-LEG. Of course we’d love for you to support this show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Iran, weeks of protests against the ruling regime have resulted in the deaths of thousands of protestors at the hands of the government. The Trump Administration has voiced its full-throated support for the protestors, with President Trump even claiming, “help is on its way.” Meanwhile, in Greenland, Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen joined Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in a joint news conference to say, again, Greenland does not want to be a part of the United States. But, of course, the President wants to annex Greenland anyway. So to talk more about President Trump's continued desire to stick his nose in other countries' business, we talked to Ben Rhodes. He's the former U.S. deputy national security advisor under the Obama Administration and the co-host of Crooked Media's Pod Save the World.And in headlines, federal data shows roughly 800,000 fewer people have signed up for ACA individual health plans than at this time last year, net migration in the U.S. likely hit close to zero in 2025, and Elon Musk's controversial AI bot, Grok, finds a new home inside… the Pentagon?Show Notes:Check out Pod Save The World – https://tinyurl.com/4n6y99muCall Congress – 202-224-3121Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new Trump coverup surges into the national spotlight. Brian interviews Elizabeth Warren about the criminal prosecution of Fed chair Jerome Powell, Hakeem Jeffries about getting ACA subsidies passed out of the House despite Mike Johnson trying to block it, and Minnesota Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan about the fallout for Republicans amid the ICE shootingSupport Peggy Flanagan: https://peggyflanagan.com/Shop merch: https://briantylercohen.com/shopYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/briantylercohenTwitter: https://twitter.com/briantylercohenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/briantylercohenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/briantylercohenPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/briantylercohenNewsletter: https://www.briantylercohen.com/sign-upWritten by Brian Tyler CohenProduced by Sam GraberRecorded in Los Angeles, CASee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three living in Minneapolis, is gunned down in her car by an ICE agent as cameras roll. Jon and Dan react to the tragedy and discuss the administration's response, especially JD Vance's despicable remarks in the White House briefing room. Dan talks to Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey about how the city plans to investigate and push back. Then, Jon and Dan discuss Trump's quest for hemispheric domination, and how Congressional Republicans are are starting to cross him on foreign policy and health care. Then, Mayor Zohran Mamdani talks with Tommy about a new deal with Gov. Kathy Hochul to expand free childcare in New York.New York Times video analysis: Videos Contradict Trump Administration Account of ICE Shooting in MinneapolisFor a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Friday, January 9th, 2026Today, the FBI is freezing out the Minnesota State investigators in the murder of Renee Nicole Good; the shooter has been identified by the Star Tribune as Jonathan Ross; the House has passed a bill extending the ACA subsidies bucking Mike Johnson; Reps Khanna and Massie urge a federal judge to appoint an independent overseer for the Epstein Files release; the House upheld Trump's vetoes on two bills passed unanimously; Senate Republicans defect and vote with Democrats on a War Powers Resolution blocking further attacks on Venezuela; the Senate voted by unanimous consent to hang the January 6th plaque; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.Thank You, IQBARText DAILYBEANS to 64000 to get 20% off all IQBAR products, plus FREE shipping. Message and data rates may apply. Guest: Sasha Abramsky - @sashaabramsky.bsky.socialAmerican Carnage: How Trump, Musk and DOGE Butchered the US GovernmentAmerican Carnage is the first book-length reckoning with the consequences of Donald Trump's war on the so-called "deep state," told through the experiences of eleven fired federal workers as their lives are thrown into chaos.Guest: John FugelsangTell Me Everything|John Fugelsang, The John Fugelsang Podcast, John Fugelsang|Substack, @johnfugelsang|Bluesky, @JohnFugelsang|TwitterSeparation of Church and Hate by John Fugelsang - OUT NOW! Stories:Minn. officials say FBI is freezing state out of probe into ICE shooting | The Washington PostICE agent in Minneapolis killing identified as 10-year law enforcement veteran | The Guardianhttps://x.com/MacFarlaneNews/status/2009357309429063834https://khanna.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/khanna.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/khanna-sdny-letter-1-8_0.pdfHouse passes bill extending ACA subsidies, bucking GOP leaders | The Washington PostSenate advances measure to restrict Trump's power to use military force in Venezuela | NBC NewsHouse fails to override Trump vetoes - Live Updates | POLITICO Good Trouble“An unprecedented amount of our taxpayer dollars gets funneled to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to carry out Trump's anti-immigrant agenda. Congress must act.”ACLU created a tool on their website that will help you create and send your customizable message to your appropriate representatives.Congress: Divest From ICE and CBP | American Civil Liberties Union→2026 Trans Girl Scouts To Order Cookies From!From The Good NewsMinneapolis schools cancel classes after Border Patrol clash disrupts dismissal at Roosevelt | MPR →Go To DailyBeansPod.com Click on ‘Contact' → ‘Good News and Good Trouble' to Share YoursSubscribe to the MSW YouTube Channel - MSW Media - YouTubeOur Donation LinksPathways to Citizenship link to MATCH Allison's Donationhttps://crm.bloomerang.co/HostedDonation?ApiKey=pub_86ff5236-dd26-11ec-b5ee-066e3d38bc77&WidgetId=6388736Allison is donating $20K to It Gets Better and inviting you to help match her donations. Your support makes this work possible, Daily Beans fam. Donate to It Gets Better / The Daily Beans FundraiserJoin Dana and The Daily Beans and support on Giving Tuesday with a MATCHED Donation http://onecau.se/_ekes71More Donation LinksNational Security Counselors - Donate

Federal agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection shot two people in Portland, Oregon, on Thursday. ABC News has the latest. Meanwhile, Minnesota officials say they were shut out of the investigation into the killing of a woman by ICE. White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller usually sticks to domestic policy issues. In this week’s Apple News In Conversation, Jonathan Blitzer of the New Yorker discusses why Miller is wading into Trump’s plans in Venezuela. In the aftermath of the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, corporations have changed how they think about security. The Wall Street Journal’s Chip Cutter joins to discuss what companies are doing to better protect executives. Plus, lawmakers passed an extension of ACA subsidies, NASA says astronauts are coming home from the ISS early, and the NFL playoffs kick off with some fresh faces at quarterback. Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.

Objective of the Plan Lower healthcare costs for Americans. Extend expiring ACA subsidies temporarily while transitioning to a new system. Shift financial benefits from insurance companies to individuals. Proposed Measures Two-year extension of Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (originally expanded during COVID-19). Income eligibility cap for subsidies at 700% of the federal poverty line to prevent wealthy Americans from benefiting. Minimum premium payments to ensure cost-sharing. Encourage Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and direct tax credits to individuals rather than insurers. Push for cost-sharing reductions that were previously blocked in Congress. Financial Impact Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates reforms could: Lower premiums by 12.7%. Save taxpayers $30.8 billion. Criticism of ACA for being “unsustainable” and increasing premiums by 80% since passage. Political Context Democrats opposed previous Republican attempts to include cost-sharing reductions in legislation. Debate over whether reforms should be bipartisan or passed via budget reconciliation. Trump emphasizes “power to the people” by allowing individuals to control healthcare spending. Underlying Philosophy There is a strong focus on consumer choice and freedom. Opposition to government-managed healthcare and subsidies flowing to insurance companies. A belief that direct-to-consumer funding will reduce corruption and lower costs. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.