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Democrats are split on how far to go in pushing back on President Donald Trump's actions in Venezuela as a war powers vote gains momentum. Anna and Jake discuss the latest. Plus, Congress is barreling toward another ACA showdown, and Sen. Tim Scott takes a high-stakes gamble on landmark crypto legislation. Punchbowl News is on YouTube Subscribe to our channel today to see all the new ways we're investing in video. Want more in-depth daily coverage from Congress? Subscribe to our free Punchbowl News AM newsletter at punchbowl.news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Venezuela's Maduro pleads not guilty in his first court appearance. Plus, Trump reveals his main focus when it comes to Venezuela. And, after months of fighting and failed deals, millions of Americans will face skyrocketing healthcare premiums after ACA subsidies expire. Luke Broadwater, Susan Glasser, David Rohde, Kristy Greenberg, Ron Insana, Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, and Nicholas Kristof join The 11th Hour this Monday night. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Mark Cuban approaches healthcare the same way he approaches every industry he enters: by assuming something essential is missing and then asking who benefits from keeping it that way. In American medicine, he believes that missing ingredient is transparency. Not better messaging, not smarter incentives, but simple visibility into how prices are set, who gets paid and who gets taken advantage of. Cuban is a lifelong healthcare outsider. He is a billionaire entrepreneur, NBA championship team owner and longtime Shark Tank investor. That's what makes him the perfect guest for Season 11 of Fixing Healthcare with cohosts Dr. Robert Pearl and Jeremy Corr. This season's guests have massive online audiences, but their value isn't just reach. It's their ability to listen closely to what millions of patients are experiencing, then translate those insights back into the broader medical conversation. Few guests embody that better than Cuban. He has quickly become one of the system's most incisive critics by paying attention to what patients, employers and clinicians repeatedly say is broken. That mindset led to the creation of Cost Plus Drugs, a pharmacy built on an idea that sounds radical only because healthcare has drifted so far from it. Show patients the actual cost of a medication, add a flat 15% markup and eliminate the opaque middlemen who thrive in the dark. In this conversation, Cuban explains how a cold email from a physician opened his eyes to how hidden pharmaceutical pricing had become and why opacity itself became the opportunity. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE INTERVIEW Why drug prices are detached from reality. Cuban breaks down how widely used medications, including GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars per month despite far lower manufacturing costs. The driver, he argues, is not innovation or scarcity, but a system dominated by pharmacy benefit managers whose rebate structures reward insurers and intermediaries while excluding patients. How patients bear the greatest financial harm. With concrete examples, Cuban explains how people in deductible phases, especially those on ACA plans, often pay full retail prices while rebates flow elsewhere. Costs are spread across millions of plan holders, but the financial pain lands on the people who actually need care. Why healthcare's complexity is intentional. From fax machines to prior authorization delays, Cuban argues that administrative friction is not accidental. It protects incumbents, drains clinician time and forces providers into the role of “subprime lenders,” all while patients struggle to navigate a system designed to obscure accountability. What he tells CEOs behind closed doors. Cuban outlines the first questions he asks corporate leaders about their pharmacy benefits, why most are not receiving the rebates they believe they are and how audits are often structured to reveal as little as possible. Transparency, he says, is the first step toward leverage. A blueprint beyond pharmaceuticals. The discussion extends into hospitals, insurance design and employer-based coverage, including Cuban's work on cost-plus wellness contracts that publish negotiated rates so others can replicate them. His goal is not dominance. It is forcing the system to respond by making its incentives visible. Throughout the episode, Cuban's message is blunt and consistent. Healthcare does not need more jargon, better marketing or marginal tweaks. It needs sunlight. Once pricing, incentives and risk are exposed, many of the system's most entrenched practices become much harder to justify. * * * Fixing Healthcare is a co-production of Dr. Robert Pearl and Jeremy Corr. Subscribe to the show via Apple, Spotify, Stitcher or wherever you find podcasts. Join the conversation or suggest a guest by following the show on Twitter and LinkedIn. The post FHC #201: Mark Cuban’s blunt diagnosis of what’s broken in healthcare appeared first on Fixing Healthcare.
In the U.S., a large proportion of immigrant communities remain unable to access healthcare. And even before the fall of Roe v. Wade, Latine people, immigrants, and communities of color faced disproportionate barriers to abortion care. Criminalization, ICE raids, travel, and language barriers further deter immigrant communities from seeking abortion care. Lupe Rodriguez, Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice (NLIRJ), sits down to talk with us about how immigrant justice and reproductive justice intersect. Latine people make up 41% of uninsured people in the country, and a large portion of that number reflects immigrant communities. Many immigrants, depending on the type of immigration status they hold, are not eligible for Medicaid. In some states, undocumented immigrants are not able to buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act's (ACA) marketplace. In addition, language barriers increase the difficulty of navigating the healthcare system. The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” (OBBBA), passed earlier this year, will be devastating. According the NLIRJ, nearly 1 in 3 Latine people around the country rely on Medicaid for healthcare access, and many Latine communities also rely on Planned Parenthood as a hub for healthcare access. Combatting mis- and dis-information, building community, and progressive policy change can make a difference in this horrible moment. For more information, check out Seriously?!: https://liftlouisiana.squarespace.com/seriously?offset=1551988440394 Support the showFollow Us on Social: Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfbFacebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Buy rePROs Merch: Bonfire store Email us: jennie@reprosfightback.comRate and Review on Apple PodcastThanks for listening & keep fighting back!
We made it to Episode 200, and this milestone edition of The ASHHRA Podcast could not be more timely.Kicking off 2026, co-hosts Bo Brabo and Luke Carignan are joined by Jeremy Sadlier for a wide-ranging Monday News Drop that examines the forces reshaping healthcare HR, workforce strategy, and hospital operations right now—and what leaders must prepare for next.What's Inside Episode 200:Workforce Shortages Are Structural, Not Cyclical The conversation opens with a hard truth: healthcare workforce shortages are no longer temporary. Leaders must move beyond short-term hiring fixes and focus on long-term workforce redesign, redeployment, and internal talent mobility.Burnout Is an Organizational Risk Burnout is no longer framed as an individual resilience issue. The team discusses why burnout is increasingly viewed as a system failure—one that impacts safety, engagement, retention, and financial performance across health systems.Upskilling Is the New Retention Strategy Degree pathways, certifications, and employer-funded education are emerging as the most powerful retention tools. Developing internal talent is no longer optional—it's essential to sustainability.AI in Healthcare HR Is Moving Faster Than Governance From recruiting and scheduling to workforce analytics and productivity modeling, AI adoption is accelerating. The challenge? Governance, bias controls, and leadership readiness are lagging behind the technology.The Expiration of ACA Subsidies and Its Ripple Effects One of the most urgent discussions centers on the recent expiration of ACA subsidies. The group breaks down what this means for hospital finances, emergency department utilization, workforce planning, and HR budgets in 2026 and beyond.Why This Episode MattersThis isn't just a look back—it's a clear-eyed look forward. Episode 200 challenges healthcare HR leaders to think systemically, plan strategically, and step confidently into their role as operational leaders during a time of unprecedented change.Whether you're focused on workforce planning, employee engagement, AI strategy, or healthcare policy impacts, this episode delivers perspective you can use immediately. 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
Here's your local news for Monday, January 5, 2026:We share an update on embattled Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan,Outline the tough choices ahead for the estimated 110,000 Wisconsinites that rely on ACA tax credits,Head to a rally in downtown Madison protesting the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro,Take a closer look at this weekend's military action with help from an expert in international law,Celebrate the birthday of a civil rights and anti-war activist,Teach you how to make Mexico's national cocktail,Review two new movies on the big screen,And much more.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-atheist-experience--3254896/support.
John talks about the expiration of the ACA tax credits. The enhanced ACA Premium Tax Credits (PTCs), which significantly lower health insurance costs, expired on New Year's Eve with no broad federal extension enacted, causing potential large premium increases for millions. He also discusses Zohran Mamdani who was sworn in as New York's first Muslim mayor and the first immigrant to lead the city in a century. In a speech, Mamdani promised to deliver the most progressive leadership the city has seen. Then, he welcomes back Allison Gill of Mueller She wrote and The Daily Beans Podcast. They talk about Trump's vindictive prosecutions and the newest revelations in the Epstein files. Then finally, John jokes with TV's Frank Conniff on what 2026 holds in store.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
For our first episode of 2026, Dr. Ezekiel “Zeke” Emanuel, oncologist, bioethicist, architect of the Affordable Care Act, and author of Eat Your Ice Cream joins us to share why he believes the longevity movement is overblown and how real health comes down to simplicity. In his new book, Zeke argues that instead of chasing expensive fads and wellness trends, we should focus on six straightforward habits that make life healthier and more enjoyable. In this conversation with co-host Steve Kraus, he explains why complexity is one of healthcare's biggest threats, how public frustration is reshaping policy, and why the path to better health may be far simpler than we think.We cover:
Episode 233: Week three of Christmas with Corman is here boils and ghouls. An entire month of Roger Corman films. Our gift this week is the naughty film Humanoids of the Deep from 1980, with special guest angler Charlie of the Give Me Back My Action And Horror Movies podcast. Rally around the tree next week, as we welcome week 4 of Christmas with Corman by covering X: The Man with the X-Ray Eyes from 1963. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/a-cut-above-horror-review--6354278/support.
Denmark tells Trump to stop threatening to seize Greenland; Santa Fe links minimum wage to high cost of housing; ME small businesses, older adults struggle to cover new ACA premiums; Student loan wage garnishment set to resume for Georgians in default; 'You got this day': resources for Wisconsinites to quit smoking.
Denmark tells Trump to stop threatening to seize Greenland; Santa Fe links minimum wage to high cost of housing; ME small businesses, older adults struggle to cover new ACA premiums; Student loan wage garnishment set to resume for Georgians in default; 'You got this day': resources for Wisconsinites to quit smoking.
WBBM political editor Geoff Buchholz reports on how Cook County leaders are helping people facing the loss of their health insurance following the expiration of ACA tax credits.
A woman with cancer loses ACA subsidies and faces death. This story shows how U.S. healthcare policy prioritizes profit over human life.Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://politicsdoneright.com/newsletterPurchase our Books: As I See It: https://amzn.to/3XpvW5o How To Make AmericaUtopia: https://amzn.to/3VKVFnG It's Worth It: https://amzn.to/3VFByXP Lose Weight And BeFit Now: https://amzn.to/3xiQK3K Tribulations of anAfro-Latino Caribbean man: https://amzn.to/4c09rbE
Karen shares her experience, strength, and hope about recovering from growing up in an alcoholic / dysfunctional home using the 12 steps of ACA.
Christian shares his experience, strength, and hope about recovering from growing up in an alcoholic / dysfunctional home using the 12 steps of ACA.
Christian shares his experience, strength, and hope about recovering from growing up in an alcoholic / dysfunctional home using the 12 steps of ACA.
Ron Steslow and Lucy Caldwell talk about the current healthcare landscape and the ongoing debate about how we pay for healthcare. They critique the ACA's effectiveness, the challenges of health insurance coverage and explore market-based solutions. They also highlight the importance of personal advocacy in navigating healthcare and the evolving discourse around health and wellness, particularly in the context of AI's role in healthcare advocacy.Related Reading: NBC News - Senate Republicans plan vote on a health care alternative as ACA funds look likely to expire Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Christian nationalists defend slavery and silence women, ACA cuts turn cancer deadly, and billionaire wealth soars. This show exposes how ideology and greed work together to crush democracy and life.Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://politicsdoneright.com/newsletterPurchase our Books: As I See It: https://amzn.to/3XpvW5o How To Make AmericaUtopia: https://amzn.to/3VKVFnG It's Worth It: https://amzn.to/3VFByXP Lose Weight And BeFit Now: https://amzn.to/3xiQK3K Tribulations of anAfro-Latino Caribbean man: https://amzn.to/4c09rbE
MeidasTouch host Ben Meiselas reports on Donald Trump's rapidly deteriorating health as Trump lashed out in public as he claims his health is perfect and Meiselas speaks with MeidasHealth chief Dr. Vin Gupta who gives his reaction and also gives great advice about what to do after Trump let the ACA subsidies expire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Friday, January 2nd, 2026Today, the Wall Street Journal is out with new reporting that the Mar a Lago spa was trafficking girls to Epstein; the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has ordered Trump to return control of the National Guard to Gavin Newsom; new jail video footage disproves government claims about which cameras were working at the time of Epstein's death; US officials confirm Ukraine did NOT strike Putin's residence; the US strikes five more boats in the Caribbean, possibly leaving survivors; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.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!AG is joining John Fugelsang this Friday on his Sirius XM show Tell Me Everything on Channel 127 at 9 PM Eastern, 6 Pacific. UNSEALED order in the Abrego Case and the DoJ coverup of the pipe bomber motivesStories:https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/u-s-finds-ukraine-didnt-target-putin-in-drone-strike-615ce4be?reflink=desktopwebshare_permalinkhttps://apnews.com/article/boat-strike-us-military-venezuela-trump-6d975cd2cafaf9ad959e2dad6f0cb8f0https://www.wsj.com/us-news/trump-epstein-mar-a-lago-ban-2011dc53?reflink=desktopwebshare_permalinkhttps://www.cbsnews.com/news/epstein-files-videos-jail-footage/Good TroubleACA subsidies that lower monthly insurance premiums for millions of Americans have expired. An estimated 22 million of the 24 million ACA marketplace enrollees are currently receiving enhanced premium tax credits to lower their monthly premiums, and many are preparing to see their premiums soar in 2026.Contact your House Rep and your Senators - Let them know that this is unacceptable and they need to take action now.Contacting U.S. SenatorsFind Your Representative | house.gov5 Calls.orgFrom The Good NewsPaw It Forward Sanctuary Non-Profithttps://www.facebook.com/people/Paw-It-Forward-Sanctuary-Non-Profit/100095532039556/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://ncdoj.gov/attorney-general-jeff-jackson-wins-17-million-lawsuit-against-fema-blocking-femas-attempt-to-withhold-funding-for-first-responders/https://www.npr.org/2025/12/20/g-s1-103223/lumbee-tribe-federal-recognition-137-yearsPatrons Sponsoring Patrons - The Daily Beans→Go To DailyBeansPod.com Click on ‘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
Dan Miller examines how the Trump administration is beginning 2026 and what recent policy decisions reveal about its priorities. Dan breaks down the administration's signature “one big beautiful bill,” its continued unpopularity, and the GOP's insistence that the problem is messaging rather than substance. The episode also explores why widely supported policies like ACA subsidies, childcare funding, and disaster relief continue to be undermined, while legislation consistently favors the wealthy. Dan connects these economic choices to the administration's reliance on culture war distractions, including targeting marginalized communities, rolling back clean energy initiatives, and slashing FEMA support. The throughline, he argues, is a governing vision that withdraws care from ordinary Americans while protecting power and privilege at the top. Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 1000+ episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Subscribe to Teología Sin Vergüenza Subscribe to American Exceptionalism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com
Ryan Wrecker fills in across all three hours with a wide-ranging show covering politics, culture, media, and policy. The program opens with workplace banter, national headlines, and New York politics surrounding Zoran Mamdani, followed by market updates, Boeing defense contracts, tariff delays, and discussion of Elon Musk's Neuralink. Ryan Schmelz joins to break down Capitol Hill battles, government funding deadlines, ACA subsidy debates, midterm-year dynamics, foreign policy developments, and the chaotic Sugar Bowl finish between Ole Miss and Georgia. Later hours focus on alleged large-scale Minnesota fraud involving federal aid programs, media trust and newsroom bias, higher education and Western civilization debates, and a somber health update on Scott Adams. Braden Perry provides a legal breakdown of how prosecutors build major fraud cases, while Dylan Sharkey examines Illinois grocery tax changes, budget transparency issues, property taxes, universal basic income pilots, education funding, and Governor J.B. Pritzker's national ambitions. The full show blends serious policy discussion with pop culture, sports, and humor throughout.
Ryan Wrecker is joined by Ryan Schmelz to break down the wild Sugar Bowl finish between Ole Miss and Georgia, then shifts to Washington with a look at the upcoming government funding deadline, shutdown concerns, ACA subsidy debates, and how the 2026 midterm year could slow Congress. The segment wraps with a quick preview of Ole Miss's College Football Playoff matchup and some SEC pride.
Minnesota families are rattled by threat to cut federal aid for child care; WI families watch coverage costs spike as ACA tax credits expire; IN businesses face new data rules in 2026; EPA delays coal wastewater standards for power plants in MO; Cost-of-living concerns could influence Ohio's 2026 elections.
ACA subsidies have expired and the U.S. has struck more boats in Venezuela. Chuck Todd, political analyst, explains the local and national impact of these government actions.
Minnesota families are rattled by threat to cut federal aid for child care; WI families watch coverage costs spike as ACA tax credits expire; IN businesses face new data rules in 2026; EPA delays coal wastewater standards for power plants in MO; Cost-of-living concerns could influence Ohio's 2026 elections.
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.
In our news wrap Thursday, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani took office and pledged to govern 'expansively and audaciously', protests in Iran turned fatal with at least six people killed, Russia claims a Ukrainian drone strike killed 24 people in a Russian-controlled part of Ukraine's Kherson region and millions of Americans are facing higher health care costs after ACA credits expired overnight. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
You know you've got a bike tour coming up this year, so you want to make sure you're ready for it. What are some things to do to make that easier in the bike touring offseason? On this episode, some insight into my plans this offseason plus tips from ACA, REI and other experts! ALSO... Pedalshift SEATTLE Live will be Friday January 16 at 5pm PT/8pm ET. Check out the details in your email, YouTube and pedalshift.net/live.
A pastor's arrest exposes evangelical hypocrisy, farmers grade Trump's failure, ACA premiums soar under GOP obstruction, and why Zohran Mamdani's message broke through fast.Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://politicsdoneright.com/newsletterPurchase our Books: As I See It: https://amzn.to/3XpvW5o How To Make AmericaUtopia: https://amzn.to/3VKVFnG It's Worth It: https://amzn.to/3VFByXP Lose Weight And BeFit Now: https://amzn.to/3xiQK3K Tribulations of anAfro-Latino Caribbean man: https://amzn.to/4c09rbE
Thanks to our partners Promotive and Wicked FileHealth insurance premiums keep climbing — but 2026 could bring the biggest shakeup in years.In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA with Paar Melis & Associates, breaks down what's happening in the small-business health insurance landscape after recent ACA subsidy changes — and why a new Republican-backed House bill could change how shop owners buy coverage and support their teams.Hunt explains the economics behind rising premiums, who's actually affected by the loss of ACA subsidies, and why shop owners may see new opportunities if association health plans and expanded health reimbursement accounts (HRAs) become available. Whether you already offer health insurance or you're considering it in 2026, this episode will help you understand what's real, what's political, and what's worth watching.Ideal for shop owners and managers who want clarity on benefits costs, recruiting strategy, and what changes may be coming in the next open enrollment cycle.What you'll discover…(02:00) The current state of small business health insurance — and why premiums keep rising 10–20% a year(05:40) How the ACA reshaped the market (06:30) What the new House bill is, why it's being debated now, and the January 31 deadline looming in the background(08:00) Who the loss of ACA subsidies impacts most — and why many shops may see little direct effect(16:10) Association health plans: how small businesses could join buying groups like big employers (and why that could lower premiums)(19:25) Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRAs): the tax advantage shop owners may finally be able to use more flexibly(23:45) What to do now: when it's smart to wait, when it's not, and why open enrollment timing matters(25:00) The future of health insurance for small businessesThanks to our partner PromotiveIt's time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our Partner WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comText Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413Download a Copy of My Books Here:Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop The Automotive Repair Podcast Network:
In our news wrap Thursday, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani took office and pledged to govern 'expansively and audaciously', protests in Iran turned fatal with at least six people killed, Russia claims a Ukrainian drone strike killed 24 people in a Russian-controlled part of Ukraine's Kherson region and millions of Americans are facing higher health care costs after ACA credits expired overnight. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
Jeremy Keil explains the 5 steps you can take if you are planning to retire in 2026 or 2027. If you've been planning to retire in 2026 or 2027, it might feel like you still have plenty of time. But in reality, retirement has a way of showing up earlier than expected — and when it does, the people who feel the most confident are the ones who prepared well in advance. In this episode of Retire Today, I walk through five things you should do before you quit working if retirement is anywhere on your near-term horizon. These steps aren't about picking a perfect retirement date. They're about being ready — even if your plans change. Why You Should Prepare Earlier Than You Think Two important statistics shape this entire conversation. First, the stock market is historically up about 70% of the time in any given year. That also means it's down about 30% of the time. If you're retiring soon, there's a real chance that your account balances could be lower at retirement than they are today. Second, most Americans retire about three years earlier than they expect. Health changes, job shifts, burnout, or family needs often move retirement forward — whether planned or not. That's why I encourage people to prepare for retirement three years ahead of time, even if they believe they'll work longer. Planning early gives you flexibility. Waiting too long removes it. 1. Create a Written Retirement Plan The first and most important step is to put your plan in writing. Many people have a retirement date in mind, but when asked how everything will actually work, they don't have clear answers. A written plan forces clarity. This is where the 5-Step Retirement Plan comes in: What you'll SPEND What you'll MAKE What you'll KEEP after taxes How you'll INVEST What you'll LEAVE behind Writing this down helps turn vague ideas into an actionable roadmap — and exposes gaps before they become problems. 2. Build a Lifetime Income Plan Retirement isn't about having a big account balance — it's about knowing where your income will come from every month. Before you retire, you should know: How much income you need Where that income will come from Which accounts you'll use first How taxes affect each withdrawal At a minimum, you should map out the first 12 months of retirement income in detail. That includes Social Security, pensions, savings, brokerage accounts, and retirement accounts — and the tax rules that apply to each one. Surprises here are costly. Planning removes them. 3. Make Your Retirement Plan Tax-Smart Many people assume their taxes will automatically go down in retirement. Sometimes that's true — but not always. Pensions, Social Security, required minimum distributions, and investment income can push retirees into higher tax brackets than expected. The key is understanding when you'll have flexibility and using it intentionally. Retirement often creates opportunities to: Shift income between tax years Take advantage of lower tax brackets Manage Roth conversions strategically Plan around healthcare subsidies Taxes don't disappear in retirement — they change. Planning ahead helps you adapt. 4. Plan Your Retirement Healthcare Healthcare is one of the biggest unknowns in retirement. Before you retire, you should know: What coverage you'll use immediately What it will cost How that coverage changes over time When Medicare becomes part of the picture Options may include employer coverage through a spouse, COBRA, retiree health plans, ACA plans, or Medicare — and each comes with different costs and rules. Healthcare planning isn't just about insurance. It's about understanding how medical costs interact with your tax plan and your income strategy. 5. Create a Retirement Investment Plan Retirement changes your investment timeline. You're no longer investing only for growth — you're investing for income and stability, too. That means separating your money into: Short-term funds for near-term spending Long-term investments for growth over decades Money you'll need soon shouldn't be exposed to short-term market swings. At the same time, money you won't need for many years still needs growth to keep up with inflation. The right investment plan balances both — and helps prevent panic decisions when markets get volatile. The Bottom Line If you're planning to retire in 2026 or 2027, now is the time to prepare. Not because something bad will happen — but because preparation gives you options. Retirement doesn't have to be so stressful. With a written plan, a clear income strategy, smart tax planning, healthcare clarity, and a thoughtful investment approach, you can step into retirement with confidence — whenever it arrives. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Create your retirement master plan in 5 simple steps: www.5StepRetirementPlan.com Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures
Former US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Director Rohit Chopra joins Bloomberg to discuss the future of health care once the ACA subsidies expire. He says healthcare costs will rise in an environment where consumers are already struggling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
WBBM political editor Geoff Buchholz reports on how Cook County's hospital system is preparing for the loss of ACA subsidies.
WBBM political editor Geoff Buchholz reports on how Cook County's hospital system is preparing for the loss of ACA subsidies.
WBBM political editor Geoff Buchholz reports on how Cook County's hospital system is preparing for the loss of ACA subsidies.
The U.S. House has recently passed a Healthcare funding measure – it's one that will get the ball rolling as Congress has yet to tackle the impending deadline for the end of the Covid-19 ACA insurance subsidies. Montana Congressman Troy […] The post House Healthcare Bill Kick-Starts Reform Discussions, with Rep. Troy Downing first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Healthcare premiums keep rising, but plan quality often stays the same (or gets worse). In this conversation, Shaun Enders sits down with Donovan Pyle—CEO of Health Compass and author of Fixing Healthcare—to unpack why the employer-sponsored healthcare market functions the way it does. Donovan explains the "hidden supply chain" behind your healthcare spend, why broker incentives often conflict with employer outcomes, and how CEOs can start reclaiming wasted dollars by getting unbiased, fiduciary-aligned guidance and improving visibility into unit pricing. Key Topics Covered Why employer healthcare spend feels unstoppable, and why that belief is "trained" The healthcare supply chain and how lack of transparency drives waste How brokers were historically designed to function (and why incentives matter) Why networks can hide prices and distort the price/quality relationship The "discount off infinity" problem behind EOBs (Explanation of Benefits) Regulatory capture and why some states limit small-business options Certificate of Need ("CON") laws and how they restrict competition The shift toward fiduciary models (similar to what happened in retirement plans) Practical steps for CEOs: visibility, vendor stack, and unbiased advisory support Chapters / Timestamps (YouTube-style) 00:01 – Welcome + why this topic matters to Shaun (20 years of premium increases) 01:17 – The big numbers: employer-sponsored coverage, $1.3T spend, and the "waste" claim 02:03 – Why finance/HR teams aren't set up to understand healthcare procurement 03:54 – The broker dilemma: "the only voice you have" vs. conflicts of interest 05:29 – Why Donovan focuses on the employer-sponsored market (not Medicare/Medicaid) 07:27 – The origin story: the first U.S. insurance plan (1929) and what became Blue Cross 09:26 – Brokers as "retail distribution" and why costs rising helps the sell-side 11:59 – ACA, cost-plus dynamics, and why vertical integration changed the game 14:52 – Reframing healthcare: not one line item—a supply chain 16:31 – Shaun's parallel: higher education costs and "cracks in the veneer" 19:14 – The strategy universe expands once you get unbiased advice 21:21 – Cash pricing: why individuals sometimes get better pricing than big insurers 23:34 – Shaun's billing experience: allowed vs billed, even in integrated systems 25:35 – EOBs as marketing: "Island Speak" and the illusion of savings 29:40 – Small business reality in CA/NY/WA: limited options and why 34:50 – Certificate of Need ("CON") laws: regulating supply and blocking competition 42:07 – ACA subsidies: what's expiring and what the market may revert to 46:31 – The most practical step: get unbiased, fiduciary-aligned advice 51:16 – Parallels to financial services: commissions → fee-based fiduciary models 57:14 – Real example: PBM RFP leading to multi-million-dollar savings 59:18 – Bringing it back to purpose: time, meaning, and what drives Donovan 01:05:29 – Where to find Donovan + free executive summary roadmap https://assessment.healthcompassconsulting.com/tba Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9vEdj0XBOyI Connect with Shaun: www.CallTSG.com www.BusinessFinanceAndSoul.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunenders/ People / Organizations Mentioned Donovan Pyle – CEO, Health Compass; author of Fixing Healthcare Validation Institute – referenced as a place to find fiduciary-based firms RAND Corporation (2021 study referenced) – cash pricing / employer pricing dynamics David Goldhill – author of Catastrophic Care (chapter: "Island Speak") Harris Rosen – Rosen Hotels (Orlando), example of long-term employer healthcare strategy Resources Mentioned Free executive summary + roadmap: FixingHealthcare.com Book: Fixing Healthcare (Donovan Pyle) Book: Catastrophic Care (David Goldhill) Disclaimer This episode discusses healthcare financing and benefits strategy from an employer perspective. It is not medical, legal, or financial advice.
This week on Words With Wista, we're talking federal judges forcing the Trump administration to restore disaster funds to blue states, America living in the United States of Klarna while still spending like everything's fine, and holiday shopping numbers that don't match the economic stress everyone swears they feel. We get into Republicans quietly eyeing 2028, DHS offering cash for self deportation, lawmakers side-eyeing Pam Bondi over redacted Epstein files, and small business owners bracing for ACA subsidy fallout. Plus, we say goodbye to the NYC MetroCard, break down New York's new mental health warnings for social media, Nicki Minaj logging off after peak backlash, Tyler Perry facing another lawsuit, Charlamagne's $200 million podcast flex causing industry tension, and Timothée Chalamet marketing his way into a Christmas box office upset. A lot is happening, and none of it is subtle. IG: itswista Podcast IG/SubStack: wordswithwista
Jody discusses ACA subsidies - what they are and why it matters that some of them are going away.Resources:1) Article on the Impact of Enhanced Subsidies Expiring (KFF)2) News Article on the Republican Healthcare Plan (Reuters)3) Interview About Subsidies Expiring (PBS)4) Federal Poverty Level (healthcare.gov)5) Reasons to Not Extend Enhanced Subsidies (CATO Institute)
As 2025 draws to a close and midterm season begins, the effects of the Trump Administration's policies are at a critical stage – one that could make or break Republican majorities in 2026. FOX News Chief Congressional Correspondent Chad Pergram joins the Rundown to recap the top stories from Capitol Hill in 2025, from the Big Beautiful Bill to the longest Government Shutdown in history, and shares what he thought was the most shocking moment of the year. Later, Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY) discusses the potential of extending the soon-to-expire ACA subsidies and other strategies to tackle healthcare reform. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security filing timing and online claiming language, a listener PSA on IRMAA and the online SSA-44, ACA income planning before Medicare, an IRA to HSA transfer, and annuity income needs. (6:45) The guys address how to word an online Social Security application so the first check is paid for a specific month when claiming at age 70, and whether applying 2–3 months before the 70th birthday is the right approach. (14:00) A listener shares a PSA on filing SSA-44 online after retirement, including how IRMAA recalculations reflected estimated future-year income and how the resulting tier was communicated in the approval letter. (25:00) Jim and Chris discuss whether it makes sense, from a planner's perspective, to stop working and manage income in a way that keeps health insurance affordable until Medicare eligibility. (38:45) George asks about doing the once-in-a-lifetime tax-free IRA-to-HSA transfer, how the HSA testing period works, and whether it's worth doing before starting Medicare to reduce future RMDs. (49:00) A listener asks whether annuity income is still useful for covering a minimum dignity floor gap when assets are high and spending needs are modest, and how to think about guaranteed income given planned retirement timing and gifting goals. The post Social Security, IRMAA, ACA Planning, IRA to HSA Transfer, Annuities: Q&A #2552 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.
As Republicans face increasing pressure to put forth a healthcare solution, four in the party broke ranks with the rest and joined a Democrat-led discharge petition, which would force a vote on a three-year extension of COVID-Era Affordable Care Act subsidies set to expire at the end of January. One of those Republicans, Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY), spoke to Bret alongside Congressman Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) last week to explain his support for temporarily extending the subsidies, despite the potential backlash it could bring from the rest of his party. The discharge petition passed on December 17, 2025, although a vote on extending the ACA subsidies has not yet been scheduled. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Let's talk about Jefferies counting on lame duck Trump for the ACA....
The Secret to Affordable Healthcare & Will Mortgage Rates Go to 5% Soon? Wes Moss reveals a critical, little-known healthcare secret that can save early retirees, job-leavers, and other Americans thousands of dollars a month on medical coverage before age 65. Hear the incredible story of Rebecca, who thought she was stuck paying $2,500/month for COBRA but discovered a way to slash her premium to less than $200 through the ACA, thanks to enhanced subsidies. Wes walks through how to use free resources to save big. Also, Wes breaks down the latest Fed rate cut and explains why it may not mean cheaper mortgages. Mentioned on the show: Calculator: ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credit National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 23, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes: BOOKS BY WES MOSS Wes Moss, CFP® Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A.M. Edition for Dec. 22. Congress breaks for the holidays without renewing enhanced ACA subsidies. The WSJ's Sabrina Sidiqui explains what could break the impasse, as millions face higher healthcare premiums and lingering uncertainty. Plus, after seizing a second tanker over the weekend, the U.S. Coast Guard hunts another ship involved in moving Venezuelan oil. And a former Tesla staffer who clashed with Elon Musk shakes up the race to run General Motors. Daniel Bach hosts. Listen to the full interview with Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack on WSJ's Take On the Week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Trump's Epstein file release gets botched beyond repair. Brian interviews Ro Khanna about the DOJ failing to comply with the law, Bernie Sanders about Republicans blocking the ACA extension, Jasmine Crockett about her run for Senate in Texas, and Hakeem Jeffries about how House Democrats outsmarted Mike Johnson on yet another discharge petition.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.