Podcasts about Affordable Care Act

About 3 million fewer people had Affordable Care Act insurance plans in February compared to last year. Much of the drop is likely due to the end of pandemic-era enhanced subsidies, which resulted in higher premiums. And ACA premiums are only likely to increase next year. Plus, starting tomorrow, Medicare will begin covering GLP-1 drugs for weight loss. And, as we prepare to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, we'll look back at the economic moments that defined the first 50 years of our nation.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace Morning Report is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.Stories featured in this episode:Millions drop ACA insurance as premiums rise

As millions of Americans are expected to lose health insurance coverage following federal cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, states are searching for new ways to prevent medical debt before it starts. In this episode of Tradeoffs, economist Neale Mahoney explains the research into strategies for relief from high healthcare costs and evaluates policy fixes to protect consumers. Guest(s):Neale Mahoney, professor of economics, Trione Director of Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research, Stanford University.Learn more: Read the full reporting and explore additional resources on our website.Want more Tradeoffs? Join more than 5,500 readers who trust Tradeoffs for clear, deeply reported health policy insights. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter.Tradeoffs helps you cut through the noise with clear, deeply reported journalism on the forces driving health care's toughest choices — reporting you won't find anywhere else. If our work helps you stay informed, support it with a donation today.This episode was produced by Melanie Evans, edited by Ryan Levi and Dan Gorenstein, and mixed by Andrew Parrella.The Tradeoffs theme song was composed by Ty Citerman. Additional music this episode from Blue Dot Sessions and Epidemic Sound.Tradeoffs reporting for this story was supported, in part, by Arnold Ventures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Roger breaks down IRMAA Medicare surcharges and why retirees should understand them without letting them dominate retirement planning decisions. He explains how the income thresholds work, common planning mistakes to avoid, and what happens if you cross into a higher premium bracket. Listener questions cover gifting strategies with adult children, Social Security claiming options for spouses, health insurance before Medicare, long-term care planning, combining finances later in life, and the tax treatment of gifts. OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(00:00) Roger introduces IRMAA Medicare surcharges and explains why understanding them can help avoid surprises and unforced planning mistakes.RETIREMENT TOOLKIT(01:28) Roger breaks down IRMAA Medicare surcharges, explaining when they apply, why they matter, and how retirees can avoid being caught off guard by higher Medicare premiums. LISTENER QUESTIONS(15:11) John asks whether purpose-driven gifts to adult children impose the giver's values and how to balance generosity with expectations.(26:50) Joe asks how Social Security spousal benefits work when one spouse delays claiming until age 70.(31:50) Paul asks whether it's possible to wait until getting sick before enrolling in Affordable Care Act coverage.(33:41) Paul asks about using a Roth IRA as a self-funded long-term care reserve instead of purchasing long-term care insurance.(38:53) Suzanne asks for advice on combining finances in a later-life marriage between two retired widows.(45:43) Dave asks whether recipients of financial gifts owe taxes on the money they receive.SMART SPRINT(47:21) Roger's challenge this week: take a break from planning and simply enjoy life.ON THE BOOKSHELF(47:46) Kevin Lyles reviews The Stimulated Mind: Future-Proof Your Brain from Dementia and Stay Sharp at Any Age by Dr. Tommy Wood.REFERENCESlivewithroger.com — Register for Noodle Live on June 18!Submit a Question for RogerSign up for The NoodleON THE BOOKSHELFThe Stimulated Mind: Future-Proof Your Brain from Dementia and Stay Sharp at Any Age by Tommy WoodNote: The opinions expressed are for informational purposes only and should not replace personalized advice from licensed professionals.  

Healthcare is one of the biggest unknowns in any FIRE plan. If you're considering early retirement, self-employment, or leaving a traditional job, understanding health insurance costs could save you thousands of dollars per year and prevent costly planning mistakes. In this episode, we break down the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance, premium tax credits, MAGI planning, and how healthcare costs vary by state. We also walk through a healthcare cost estimator tool that can help you project future expenses and build a more resilient financial independence plan. Resources Featured in the Episode: Healthcare Cost Projection: https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/healthcarecosts/ 2026 Tax Projection: https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/income-tax-projection/ How Health Insurance Works in Early Retirement Blog Post: https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/how-health-insurance-works-in-early-retirement-and-self-employment-2026/ How to Plan for Healthcare Over Early Retirement Blog Post: https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/planning-for-healthcare-costs-over-a-decades-long-early-retirement/ To go beyond the podcast: Kick start your financial independence journey with our FREE financial resources - https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/ Subscribe on YouTube for even more content- www.youtube.com/biggerpocketsmoney  Connect with us on social media to join the other BiggerPockets Money listeners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BPMoney 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

No-nonsense advice on sleep, diet, exercise, social connection, keeping your brain sharp, and not being a schmuck. Ezekiel J. Emanuel, MD, PhD is a Vice Provost and Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. A bioethicist, health policy expert, and oncologist, he was one of the architects of the Affordable Care Act. He is a regular guest on CNN and MSNBC and frequently contributes to The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Atlantic. His new book is Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life. In this episode we talk about: Why longevity shouldn't be the goal — and what to aim for instead The single most powerful intervention for a long, healthy life (hint: it's not exercise) The neuroscience of friendship: how social connection literally changes your brain and body Six practical, science-backed rules for living well — from an oncologist with nothing to sell Why ultra-processed food and sugary drinks are doing more damage than almost anything else The case for eating ice cream (yes, really) — and why moderation is the new discipline What retirement does to your brain, and how to protect your cognitive function as you age ChatGPT as a diagnostic tool — and what a doctor actually thinks about that Why the wellness industrial complex is making you worse, not better Get the 10% with Dan Harris app here Sign up for Dan's free newsletter here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris This episode is sponsored by:  BiOptimizers: Magnesium Breakthrough delivers seven forms of magnesium to support your nervous system, stress response, and daily recovery. Try it risk-free with their 365-day guarantee — head to bioptimizers.com/happier and use code HAPPIER for 15% off plus free gifts at checkout. Eight Sleep: The Pod automatically heats and cools your bed, tracks your sleep without a wearable, and their testing shows users get up to 34% more deep sleep. Use code DanHarris at eightsleep.com/danharris for up to $350 off the Pod 5, with a 30-day trial if it's not for you.

Throughout her career, Nancy Pelosi has known how to get things done: whipping up votes, negotiating bills, and, in what is probably her crowning achievement, pushing through the Affordable Care Act as speaker of the House. At the end of her current term, she plans to retire, after nearly 40 years in Congress. Hanna Rosin recently sat down with Pelosi at the Cascade PBS Ideas Festival, in Seattle, to talk about the midterms, if Democrats could take back Congress, and what exactly she was thinking when she ripped up a speech at the State of the Union.  Also, a special announcement about Radio Atlantic. - - - Get more from your favorite Atlantic voices when you subscribe. You'll enjoy unlimited access to Pulitzer-winning journalism, from clear-eyed analysis and insight on breaking news to fascinating explorations of our world. Atlantic subscribers also get access to exclusive subscriber audio in Apple Podcasts. Subscribe today at TheAtlantic.com/Listener. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senate Democrats hope to highlight rising healthcare prices by forcing a vote on the Trump administration's changes to the Affordable Care Act before the midterm elections. Meanwhile, Alabama is the latest state to try to cut off residents' access to medication abortion via telehealth. Lauren Weber of The Washington Post, Sheryl Gay Stolberg of The New York Times, and Anna Edney of Bloomberg News join KFF Health News' Julie Rovner to discuss these stories and more. Also this week, Rovner interviews Michael Cannon of the Cato Institute and Liz Fowler of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to discuss the idea of ending the employer health insurance tax exclusion.  Plus, for “extra credit” the panelists suggest health policy stories they read this week that they think you should read, too: Julie Rovner: KFF Health News' “Trump Bought Tobacco Stocks and Raked In Industry Donations as FDA Eased Standards,” by Darius Tahir.  Sheryl Gay Stolberg: KFF Health News' “Tennessee Pharmacies Sell Potent Ivermectin, Led by Anti-Vaccine Doctor Who's Taken ‘Bucketloads,'” by Brett Kelman and Rachana Pradhan.  Anna Edney: Politico Magazine's “Inside Trump's Reversal on HIV,” by Alice Miranda Ollstein and Megan Messerly.  Lauren Weber: The Atlantic's “AI Is Taking Over Hospitals,” by Benjamin Mazer.  

Ilyce Glink, CEO of Think Glink, joins Bob Sirott to explain what a Roth IRA is and why younger generations are investing in them for their retirement. She also shares details about the different Affordable Care Act plans and her advice about which company is supplying your insurance.

More than a million people dropped their Affordable Care Act coverage this year after Congress let enhanced pandemic-era subsidies expire. That number is likely to rise significantly as the year goes on. And for the first time in years, the number of insurers offering ACA plans has dropped, too. We'll dig in. Also on the show: the global wait for fertilizer and the challenges of the teen summer job market.

More than a million people dropped their Affordable Care Act coverage this year after Congress let enhanced pandemic-era subsidies expire. That number is likely to rise significantly as the year goes on. And for the first time in years, the number of insurers offering ACA plans has dropped, too. We'll dig in. Also on the show: the global wait for fertilizer and the challenges of the teen summer job market.

In this episode, the speaker takes a critical look at the 17th Amendment, which was ratified in 1913, and argues that it has led to a significant shift in the balance of power between the federal government and the states. The amendment, which allows for the direct election of senators, was initially intended to address corruption and backroom deals in the Senate, but the speaker claims that it has had the opposite effect.The speaker presents a compelling case that the 17th Amendment has led to a nationalization of the Senate, where senators are now accountable to national donors and special interest groups rather than their home states. This has resulted in a system where the interests of the states are often overlooked, and the federal government is able to exert its power without being held accountable by the states. The speaker also highlights the example of the Affordable Care Act, where senators from states that were suing to block the law were still able to vote for it, demonstrating the disconnect between the Senate and the states.The speaker argues that the original design of the Constitution, which gave the states a significant role in the selection of senators, was a deliberate attempt to balance the power between the federal government and the states. They propose a solution that involves repealing the 17th Amendment and returning the selection of senators to the state legislatures, with the added provision of a recall mechanism to ensure that senators remain accountable to their states.If you're interested in learning more about the unintended consequences of the 17th Amendment and how it has impacted the balance of power in the US, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's thought-provoking arguments and insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we are joined by Chris Hamilton, Partner and Employee Benefits Practice Leader at Hotchkiss Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Texas. With nearly two decades of experience in corporate finance and employee benefits, Chris helps employers navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, reduce costs, and gain greater control over their health plans by moving beyond traditional insurance models. In addition to his work at Hotchkiss Insurance, Chris is the founder of Benefits Insider, an educational platform dedicated to helping employers understand how healthcare financing really works. Through practical case studies, industry analysis, and real-world examples, he empowers business leaders to make more informed decisions about employee benefits and healthcare spending. Recognized as the 2025 BenefitsPro Advisor of the Year, Chris has become a leading voice on healthcare transparency, employer-sponsored health plans, and cost-containment strategies. He regularly contributes to podcasts, conferences, and educational content designed to simplify one of the most misunderstood areas of business. This conversation explores: How Chris got started in the healthcare and employee benefits industry The unintended consequences of the Affordable Care Act on employers and healthcare  The incentives that drive insurance companies, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and other healthcare stakeholders Alternative approaches to controlling healthcare costs  Why are healthcare costs continuing to rise, and what can employers do to take back control of their benefits strategy? Tune in to hear Chris's practical insights into the healthcare system and how businesses can create more efficient, cost-effective plans for their employees. Connect with Chris: Personal Website Hotchkiss Insurance LinkedIn Youtube Tiktok

Health Affairs Publishing's Jeff Byers welcomes Alison Barkoff of George Washington University to the pod to explore the evolving landscape of Medicaid work requirements. They break down who is impacted by these policies, how the requirements are structured across states, and the real-world challenges of implementation. The conversation also explores concerns about administrative burden, potential coverage losses, and what these changes mean for beneficiaries, policymakers, and providers.Topics covered:What Medicaid work requirements are and how they workWho qualifies—and who may lose coverageState-level variations and policy designAdministrative complexity and compliance challengesPotential impacts on access to care and health outcomesJoin us on June 23 for an exclusive Insider virtual event examining how antitrust policy in health care is evolving at both the federal and state levels, featuring insights from Katherine Gudiksen, Leemore Dafny, and Nathan Hostert.Related Links:Medical Frailty Rule Contravenes HR 1, Burdens The Health Care System, And Threatens Public Health (Health Affairs Forefront)States balk at the high price of Medicaid work requirements amid budget crunch (POLITICO PRO)Sign up for Health Affairs' free newsletter to catch up on our new articles, podcasts, and events.

As predicted, the expiration of enhanced tax subsidies for Affordable Care Act health plans is causing many people to lose coverage for failing to make premium payments. Meanwhile, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. responded angrily to a New York Times article suggesting he's not actively engaged in the work of his sprawling department. Lauren Weber of The Washington Post, Lizzy Lawrence of Stat, and Sandhya Raman of Bloomberg Law join KFF Health News' Julie Rovner to discuss these stories and more. Also this week, Rovner interviews KFF's Tricia Neuman, who is retiring this month as a senior vice president and the executive director of the Program on Medicare Policy. Visit our website for a transcript of this episode.Plus, for “extra credit,” the panelists suggest health policy stories they read this week they think you should read, too: Julie Rovner: KFF Health News' “Anguished Parents. Doctors in Tears. Utah's Long Measles Outbreak Takes a Toll,” by Amy Maxmen. Sandhya Raman: CIDRAP's “Two Sisters, One Virus: A Family Devastated by HPV,” by Liz Szabo. Lizzy Lawrence: The Chicago Tribune's “One Plastic Surgeon. Eight Women Dead,” by Christy Gutowski and Gregory Royal Pratt. Lauren Weber: ProPublica's “The Milkman,” by Annie Waldman. 

A late spring freeze may mean less fruit and higher prices for Pennsylvanians. Some farms are adjusting their business strategies to recoup their losses. Healthcare company UPMC cut 500 positions Tuesday. A spokesperson said UPMC laid off 200 employees and eliminated another 300 vacant positions as part of a routine reassessment.A new Trump administration grant program is designed to increase the amount of electricity the country gets from coal. The program has the potential to impact Pennsylvania.We're learning more about U-S Steel's announcement that it plans to invest more than $2 billion in the Mon Valley Works.The Shapiro Administration is cracking down on AI chatbots which have been posing as doctors.Enrollment in Pennsylvania's Affordable Care Act marketplace for discounted health insurance coverage has dropped by 160,000 Pennsylvanians.Funding for victims' services in Pennsylvania are facing cuts – after a drop in white-collar prosecutions under the Trump Administration. That translates into a drop in federal funding – since funding for services to crime victims comes primarily from fines and penalties paid by those convicted of white-collar crimes.In uncertain times, our community counts on facts, not noise. Support the journalism and programming that keep you informed. Donate now at www.witf.org/givenow. And thank you.  

Healthcare is all about who is going to pay for it. Because if you can't afford to go to the doctor, you probably won't until it becomes an emergency – which isn't good for the patient or the system. This is a particular problem in rural Tennessee. When there's a hiccup in the system, rural systems may shutter.Healthcare Hollow is a WPLN series that takes an in-depth look at the crisis of rural hospital closings.In this episode, we're focused on who is going to pay for care in rural Tennessee. Those residents are more likely to rely on TennCare (the state's version of federal Medicaid). Post-COVID policy changes have resulted in more people losing TennCare coverage. At the same time, fewer people are keeping insurance under the Affordable Care Act because of the expense.This episode is part of our Healthcare Hollow series, made possible, in part, by the NIHCM Foundation.GuestsGordon Bonnyman, staff attorney & co-founder, Tennessee Justice CenterJackie Shrago, ACA marketplace volunteer navigatorSarah Boden, independent healthcare journalist with KFFKelly Insana, vice president of marketing & communications, Tennessee Hospital Association

Newt talks with Elle Minarik, from the Paragon Health Institute, about their new report, “The Persistent Obamacare Enrollment Fraud” which details the widespread fraud and improper enrollment in Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchange plans, driven by enhanced federal subsidies, weak verification systems, and misaligned incentives for insurers and intermediaries. Paragon Health Institute’s analysis compares Census data on people with incomes between 100–150% of the federal poverty level to the number of highly subsidized enrollees, estimating that 6.2 million people are enrolled in heavily subsidized plans despite not having incomes in that range. They project about $25 billion per year in improper Obamacare enrollment by 2026, with at least $75 billion over the last three years, and note that in one year alone $40 billion in federal payments went to insurers for “zero-claim” enrollees who never used their coverage. Improper enrollment is highly concentrated in non–Medicaid expansion states, especially Florida and Texas, which together account for 63% of projected improper enrollees in 2026; five states including Florida, Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina account for 78%.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About this episode:   Two health policy experts could not disagree more about the Affordable Care Act. Yet they're working together to tackle what they see as a root cause of unaffordability. In this episode: A 1954 change to federal tax code made employer-provided health benefits tax-free, incentivizing employers to cover workers' health insurance—but this policy is one explanation for high healthcare costs for Americans today.  Guests:  Michael F. Cannon, JM, MA, is the director of health policy studies at the Cato Institute.  Elizabeth Fowler, PhD, JD, is a distinguished scholar in Health Policy and Management at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.  Host:  Dr. Josh Sharfstein is distinguished professor of the practice in Health Policy and Management, a pediatrician, and former secretary of Maryland's Health Department. He served as the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health from 2005 to 2009.  Show links and related content:  This policy is at the root of unaffordable health care—Washington Post  The New Reality Facing Medicare, Medicaid, and the ACA—Public Health On Call (August 2025)  Transcript information: Looking for episode transcripts? Open our podcast on the Apple Podcasts app (desktop or mobile) or the Spotify mobile app to access an auto-generated transcript of any episode. Closed captioning is also available for every episode on our YouTube channel. Contact us: Have a question about something you heard? Looking for a transcript? Want to suggest a topic or guest? Contact us via email or visit our website. Follow us: @‌PublicHealthPod on Bluesky @‌PublicHealthPod on Instagram @‌JohnsHopkinsSPH on Facebook @‌PublicHealthOnCall on YouTube Here's our RSS feed Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University.

In episode 182, we talk with Andrew Grossman of Battleground Alliance about why Democrats can't afford to wait for a wave election and how a $50 million, labor-backed organizing operation across 37 Republican-held House districts is building the infrastructure to win back the House majority in 2026.Andrew is a nationally recognized campaign innovator and leader specializing in strategy, campaign management, and executive recruitment for campaigns, non-profits, advocacy groups and unions.Since starting Grossman Solutions in 2007, he helped pass the Affordable Care Act, served as Director of the Democratic National Convention Platform Committee four times, and created a distinctive talent recruitment practice, placing hundreds of leaders at organizations including America Vote, Planned Parenthood and several Democratic party committees. His earlier roles include executive and political director at the DSCC (1999–2004), founder and president of Wal‑Mart Watch (2005–2007), and field organizer for Jesse Jackson's 1988 campaign.Resources: * Battleground Alliance* Red, Wine, and Blue - Ohio* Ohio Organizing CollaborativeWe're bringing together digital creators from across the state to build a powerful digital organizing network called Ohio Creators for Progress. Support and donate to this effort below! ⬇️Connect with United SHE Stands:* Substack* Instagram* TikTok* YouTube* Threads* Buy us a coffee ☕️This episode was edited by Kevin Tanner. Learn more about him and his services here:* Website* Instagram This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.unitedshestands.com/subscribe

Growing health insurance premiums, particularly for plans on the Affordable Care Act marketplace, have been in the headlines as cuts to Medicaid roll out nationwide. But healthcare deductibles are also growing — and with them, the group of Americans who have insurance but can't afford to use it. Also in this episode: The hospitality industry adds jobs in May, a jeweler in California mines his own gold, and we recap the week's economic headlines.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Growing health insurance premiums, particularly for plans on the Affordable Care Act marketplace, have been in the headlines as cuts to Medicaid roll out nationwide. But healthcare deductibles are also growing — and with them, the group of Americans who have insurance but can't afford to use it. Also in this episode: The hospitality industry adds jobs in May, a jeweler in California mines his own gold, and we recap the week's economic headlines.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Health Affairs Publishing's Jeff Byers welcomes Sarah Jane Tribble of KFF Health News to the pod to discuss the Rural Health Transformation Fund, highlighting how it aims to improve infrastructure and access in rural communities amid ongoing challenges like hospital closures, workforce shortages, and Medicaid cuts. To learn more about the Rural Health Transformation Fund, join us on June 8 for a free event featuring Kate Sapra and Katherine Ornstein highlighting state initiatives focusing on improving care for older adults.Join us on June 23 for an exclusive Insider virtual event examining how antitrust policy in health care is evolving at both the federal and state levels, featuring insights from Katherine Gudiksen, Leemore Dafny, and Nathan Hostert.Related Links:Rural Health Payout Series (KFF Health News)Rural America at a Glance (U.S. Department of Agriculture)Federal Budget Cuts Won't Hit All Hospitals Equally: How States Can Better Analyze Hospital And Health System Financial Data (Health Affairs Forefront)Sign up for Health Affairs' free newsletter to catch up on our new articles, podcasts, and events.

A major health insurance company is leaving Montana, saying it's no longer profitable to do business in the state. The move will force about 11,000 Montanans to choose different health plans next year. It's part of a nationwide trend.

In this episode of The Broker Link Podcast, Mike Papuc welcomes Mike Smith, President Emeritus of The Brokerage Inc., for an important discussion on the current state of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and what agents need to know moving forward. Mike shares his perspective on the latest developments affecting ACA plans, including marketplace trends, enrollment activity, carrier participation, and the evolving regulatory environment. Drawing on decades of industry experience, he explains how recent changes may impact both consumers and insurance professionals. The conversation explores the opportunities and challenges agents face in today's health insurance landscape, emphasizing the importance of staying informed, educating clients, and adapting to market shifts. Mike also discusses the value of building long-term client relationships and how trusted advisors can help consumers navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system. Whether you're focused on ACA, Medicare, or broader health insurance solutions, this episode provides valuable insights into the factors shaping the market today and practical guidance for serving clients with confidence. Tune in for an informative conversation packed with industry expertise, strategic perspective, and actionable takeaways from one of the insurance industry's most respected leaders. Learn more about partnering with The Brokerage Inc. by visiting our website, www.thebrokerageinc.com. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  New episodes weekly. Join our Community! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brokerage-inc-/   Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thebrokerageinc/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thebrokerageinc/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheBrokerageIncTexas  Website:  https://thebrokerageinc.com/       

Send us Fan MailToday, I'm joined by Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, oncologist, world-renowned bioethicist, health policy expert, and author of the new book Eat Your Ice Cream.Dr. Emanuel is the Vice Provost for Global Initiatives and University Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. He has advised the World Health Organization, helped shape the Affordable Care Act, served on the Biden-Harris COVID Advisory Board, and is the most widely cited bioethicist in history, with more than 350 publications and 16 books to his name.In a culture obsessed with biohacking, anti-aging, and optimizing every aspect of our health, Dr. Emanuel offers a refreshing, and sometimes controversial perspective. He challenges us to think differently about longevity, aging, wellness trends, and what truly creates a meaningful, healthy life.Today we're talking about the difference between living longer and living better, why relationships may matter more than supplements, and how women can navigate midlife health without getting caught up in the endless pursuit of optimization.Follow Dr Emanuel hereWebsiteNewest book: Eat Your Ice Cream! Join Move Daily MembershipFOLLOW ALONG with Move Daily Fitness!Follow on InstagramFollow on FacebookIndemnity** All information provided by Move Daily Fitness and Tracy Steen is of a general nature and is furnished for educational/entertainment purposes only. No information is to be taken as medical or other health advice pertaining to any individual's specific health conditions. Move Daily is not engaged in rendering any medical services. Move Daily makes no guarantee regarding the accuracy, timeliness or relevance of any text, video or audio content. Any content provided is not a diagnosis, treatment plan or recommendation for a particular course of action regarding your health and it is not intended to provide specific medical advice. Do not delay in seeking the advice and diagnosis of a medical professional because of anything you may have read or interpreted from Move Daily Fitness content.  Consult your health care professional before participating in or acting on any recommendations found on Move Daily Fitness.  You agree, at your exposure, to indemnify and hold Move Daily Fitness and Tracy Steen harmless from any and all losses, liabilities and injuries, or damages resulting from and all claims, cause of action, suits, proceedings and demands against Move Daily Fitness and Tracy Steen, arising from or related to decisions or recommendations you make using Move Daily Fitness content. You agree that use of this information is at your own riskIf you love total body workouts, and are looking to increase muscle, this Total Body Split Calendar (follow along video) is for you! Grab yours here today and get started.  The Move Daily Membership is a paid monthly subscription for women, which gives you access to a huge amount of resources to help support you in reaching your health goals. Whether you're looking to lose fat, gain lean muscle, focus on your nutrition, give time to wellness or simply wish to dial in your overall health, we can support you in achieving your objectives. Join today! Shop Legion Supplements and use discount code: MoveDailyThis is an affiliate link.Support the showUse discount code PODCAST10 for a discount on your Move Daily Membership. Don't fade out women, level up!Thanks for moving daily with us in your fitness, wellness and nutrition! Be sure to follow us here:YouTubeInstagramFacebookTikTokSubscribe to my podcast! 

Most people planning for early retirement focus on investments… But the real shock? Healthcare. Starting in 2026, a little-known rule under the Affordable Care Act could create a massive financial trap: earn just one extra dollar, and your health insurance premiums could jump by tens of thousands.

James Golden aka Bo Snerdley examines the deep political polarization in America by critiquing recent legal and legislative actions taken by Democrats. The program primarily focuses on the judicial suspension of a controversial $1.8 billion fund proposed by Donald Trump to compensate those who claim they were victims of government weaponization. Golden uses this news as a springboard to argue that liberal policies in major cities have led to systemic urban decay, rising crime, and the failure of social programs like the Affordable Care Act. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Health Affairs Publishing's Jeff Byers welcomes Andrew Rundle of the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health to the pod to discuss his recent Forefront article about Medicare's upcoming ACCESS model and its potential to expand digital health for chronic disease management. They discuss why the program could spur rapid growth in health tech while highlighting key challenges, including serving an older population with varying degrees of digital literacy and adapting to a new, evidence-driven marketplace. Related Links:The ACCESS Model May Set Off A Health Tech Gold Rush, But New Markets Bring Serious Obstacles (Health Affairs Forefront)A deeper dive into the ACCESS Model—Who's participating, potential headwinds and how it could spur health plan adoption (Fierce Healthcare)ACCESS (Advancing Chronic Care with Effective, Scalable Solutions) Model (CMS)ACCESS Model Accepted Applicants (CMS)Sign up for Health Affairs' free newsletter to catch up on our new articles, podcasts, and events.

James Golden aka Bo Snerdley examines the deep political polarization in America by critiquing recent legal and legislative actions taken by Democrats. The program primarily focuses on the judicial suspension of a controversial $1.8 billion fund proposed by Donald Trump to compensate those who claim they were victims of government weaponization. Golden uses this news as a springboard to argue that liberal policies in major cities have led to systemic urban decay, rising crime, and the failure of social programs like the Affordable Care Act. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2027 Marketplace Final Rule from CMS is here! Join Sarah as she pulls out takeaways for insurance agents selling ACA plans.   Get Connected:

The Constitution Study with Host Paul Engel – Politics has become all about the money. Taking money from donors, spending money on campaigns, and embezzling money from taxpayers to bribe people for their votes. Once you figure out that politics is all about the money, things start to make more sense. Obama signed the Affordable Care Act, which actually made healthcare less affordable...

The Constitution Study with Host Paul Engel – Politics has become all about the money. Taking money from donors, spending money on campaigns, and embezzling money from taxpayers to bribe people for their votes. Once you figure out that politics is all about the money, things start to make more sense. Obama signed the Affordable Care Act, which actually made healthcare less affordable...

The Trump administration finalizes sweeping changes to the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, HHS launches a new AI-powered fraud audit program, and Providence plans to scale back most of its health plan offerings next year. Those stories and more on today's episode of The Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to a new, limited podcast series exploring major policy changes affecting older adults. This episode is part of our Age-Friendly Health series, which explores topics at the intersection of aging, health, health care, and health policy.In our third and final episode for the series in 2026, host Katherine Ornstein welcomes Alison Barkoff of George Washington University to the program to discuss the rising economic and social importance of family caregiving, recent federal policy shifts affecting Medicaid and caregiver programs, and new interventions at the state and private‑sector levels.Support for the Age-Friendly Health series is provided by The John A. Hartford Foundation.Related Links:Reflections On Caregiving Policy: Progress, Challenges, And Opportunities (Health Affairs Forefront)History Repeats? Faced With Medicaid Cuts, States Reduced Support For Older Adults And Disabled People (Health Affairs Forefront)Long Term Services and Supports InitiativeNational Strategy to Support Family CaregiversNation Alliance for Caregiving's Caregiver Nation Coalition

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of youth mental health challenges, including suicide and self-harm. Listener discretion is advised.Health Affairs Publishing's Kathleen Haddad welcomes Caroline Figueroa of Stanford University to the pod to discuss how teens are using AI chatbots for mental health support and the factors driving that use, including access and stigma. It also discusses emerging concerns and potential approaches to improving safety, design, and oversight of these tools. Join us on June 23 for an exclusive Insider virtual event examining how antitrust policy in health care is evolving at both the federal and state levels, featuring insights from Katherine Gudiksen, Leemore Dafny, and Nathan Hostert.Also, learn more about the upcoming AcademyHealth 2026 Annual Research Meeting from May 30 to June 2 featuring Caroline Figueroa as part of the panel, A Responsible Approach to AI Innovation to Support the Mental Health of Young People.Related Links:Responsible AI for Youth Mental Health (Hopelab)Talk, Trust, and Trade-Offs: How and Why Teens Use AI Companions (common sense media)One in Eight Adolescents and Young Adults Use AI Chatbots for Mental Health Advice (RAND)Towards responsible AI for adolescent mental health and well-being2026 CHATBOT LEGISLATION TRACKERSign up for Health Affairs' free newsletter to catch up on our new articles, podcasts, and events.

Many Americans dream about retiring early, but few fully understand the healthcare costs that come before Medicare eligibility at age 65. In this episode of the Capitalist Investor, Mark Tepper and Tony Zabiegala break down the real financial impact of retiring early and why healthcare planning needs to be part of every retirement strategy.They discuss COBRA, Affordable Care Act options, HSA strategies, Roth conversions, tax efficient income planning, and how healthcare costs can dramatically affect long term retirement success. The conversation also highlights why retirement planning is not just about investments and asset levels, but about building the right income strategy before Medicare begins.If you are considering retiring before 65, this episode explains the hidden costs many retirees overlook and how proper planning years in advance can help reduce financial stress later in retirement.

Affordable Care Act premiums are higher this year, after Congress declined to renew subsidies for the health insurance program. As a result, about a million fewer Americans enrolled for 2026 and even more are slated to drop by the year's end. In this episode, why falling enrollment will raise premiums further. Plus: Bond yields hit record highs around the globe, businesses start to see tariff refunds ahead of schedule, and utility rates are about to get worse.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Affordable Care Act premiums are higher this year, after Congress declined to renew subsidies for the health insurance program. As a result, about a million fewer Americans enrolled for 2026 and even more are slated to drop by the year's end. In this episode, why falling enrollment will raise premiums further. Plus: Bond yields hit record highs around the globe, businesses start to see tariff refunds ahead of schedule, and utility rates are about to get worse.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Welcome to a new, limited podcast series exploring major policy changes affecting older adults. This episode is part of our Age-Friendly Health series, which explores topics at the intersection of aging, health, health care, and health policy.In our second episode, host Katherine Ornstein welcomes Bianca Frogner, director of the Center for Health Workforce Studies at the University of Washington to discuss the role of direct care workers in long‑term care, workforce shortages, policy shifts affecting Medicaid, immigration, labor standards, and more.Support for the Age-Friendly Health series is provided by The John A. Hartford Foundation.

On this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Fred Lenz, Founder and Managing Partner of Margin First Advisors, to discuss how small and medium-sized businesses can uncover enterprise-level cost savings without upfront consulting fees. Fred shares how his company helps SMBs improve margins through healthcare cost mitigation, IT optimization, tax incentives, AP automation, and other specialized solutions typically reserved for large corporations. He explains Margin First Advisors' unique no-risk business model, in which clients pay only after savings are realized, and takes a deep dive into a healthcare program that leverages Affordable Care Act provisions to reduce employer healthcare expenses while generating significant FICA tax savings. The conversation also explores the growing role of virtual healthcare, automation, and proactive cost management strategies for businesses navigating economic uncertainty. Connect with our guest:  https://margin1st.com/

In this Best Of episode, we revisit our June 2025 conversation with CNN Anchor and Chief National Affairs Analyst Kasie Hunt! It's a very fun conversation covering her work and what inspired her to follow her passion for journalism.She discusses the early days of her career covering Obama, Congress, and the passage of the Affordable Care Act. We also talk about how much Congress and the information ecosystem has changed over the years. And Kasie shares her thoughts about watching Donald Trump pardon the rioters on his first day back in office after being present in the Capitol that day.Plus, immigration raids, tariffs and the Big, Beautiful, Bill. Trump and the Republicans might actually pass the BBB, but at what cost to working Americans?WATCH Kasie on CNN, weekdays at 4pm ET: https://www.cnn.com/profiles/kasie-huntSUPPORT THE PODCAST BY VISITING OUR SPONSORS:Save money on your wireless bill with Mint Mobile. Visit https://www.mintmobile.com/franken. Make sure you tell them you heard about this deal from The Al Franken Podcast!Get up to 15% off your skincare subscription needs at https://www.oneskin.co/frankenSave money on your insurance bills with SelectQuote! Visit https://www.selectquote.com/franken today!

Health insurance policy is complicated, but the consequences are deeply human. In this episode of Turn on the Lights, Professor Jonathan Gruber, Ford Professor of Economics and Chair of the Economics Department at MIT, joins Don Berwick and Kedar Mate to explore the history, structure, and future of health reform in the United States. Drawing on his work shaping Massachusetts health reform and the Affordable Care Act, Gruber explains the three-legged stool of reform: ending insurance discrimination, requiring broad participation, and making coverage affordable through subsidies. He also reflects on the political battles behind the ACA, the importance of Medicaid expansion, and the growing risks to health care coverage today. The conversation concludes with cautious optimism about biomedical innovation alongside serious concerns about affordability, rising costs, and the need for a more seamless health care system. Tune in to hear why health reform is not just about policy design, but about whether people can get care when they need it. Resources Follow MIT on LinkedIn and explore the website.  Learn more about Professor Jonathan Gruber:https://economics.mit.edu/people/faculty/jonathan-gruber Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Health Affairs Publishing's Jeff Byers welcomes Georgetown University's Katie Keith and Deputy Editor Chris Fleming back to the podcast to unpack a new court case over mifepristone that could alter telehealth access to medication abortion and test the boundaries of FDA authority.Join us on June 23 for an exclusive Insider virtual event examining how antitrust policy in health care is evolving at both the federal and state levels, featuring insights from Katherine Gudiksen, Leemore Dafny, and Nathan Hostert.Related Links:Supreme Court Temporarily Blocks Ruling Barring Telehealth And Pharmacy Access To Mifepristone (Health Affairs Forefront)The US Food and Drug Administration's Regulation of Mifepristone (JAMA)Sign up for Health Affairs' free newsletter to catch up on our new articles, podcasts, and events.

Episode 224: Community Health Workers Dr. Arreaza: Today we will discuss a topic that, frankly, every single person listening, whether you're a medical student, a resident, a nurse, a family doctor, or any primary care provider, needs to really understand. We're talking about community health workers (CHWs). We are joined by our stellar medical student; you may be familiar with her voice from previous episodes about insomnia. Moira, welcome, please introduce yourself.  Moira: I want to be upfront about why Community Health Workers matter to you specifically. If you've ever felt frustrated that your patient with uncontrolled diabetes keeps missing appointments because they can't get a ride, or that your heart failure patient was readmitted because nobody checked whether they could afford their medications, then you already understand the problem that CHWs are designed to solve. Dr. Arreaza: We're going to give you the definition of a CHW, the evidence behind their effectiveness, how they fit into your care team, the return on investment, and practical steps for integrating them into your practice. We have pulled information from a lot of peer-reviewed sources, and we want to share them with you. So, Moira, let's start with the basics. What exactly is a community health worker? Moira: Great question, and it's one that even literature struggles with, because there are so many titles for this role. Community Health Worker is an umbrella term that encompasses more than 20 different titles including outreach workers, promotores or promotoras de salud, community health representatives, lay health workers, peer educators, patient navigators, and many more. The American Public Health Association defines CHWs as frontline public health workers who are trusted members of or have an unusually close understanding of the communities they serve. Arreaza: And that trust is so important in health care. CHWs are not physicians. They are not nurses. They do not diagnose or prescribe. But they are like a bridge connecting the medical environment, social services, and the community to reduce gaps in healthcare delivery.  Moira: Exactly. In the United States, the role was formally recognized in the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which includes several sections highlighting the key roles CHWs play in achieving important goals of healthcare. ________________ References:  Aguerrebere, M., Rodríguez-Cuevas, F. G., Flores, H., Arrieta, J., & Raviola, G. (2019). Providing Mental Health Care in Primary Care Centers in LMICs. Innovations in Global Mental Health, 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-70134-9_95-1 Allen, L. N., Rasanathan, K., Mash, R., Uribe, M. V., Martinez-Bianchi, V., & Kidd, M. (2025). Models of Global Primary Care Post-2030. The Lancet Primary Care, 1(3), 100027. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanprc.2025.100027 Babagoli, M. A., Nieto-Martínez, R., González-Rivas, J. P., Sivaramakrishnan, K., & Mechanick, J. I. (2021). Roles for Community Health Workers in Diabetes Prevention and Management in Low- And Middle-Income Countries. Cadernos De Saúde Pública, 37(10). https://doi.org/10.1590/0102-311x00287120 Balasubramanya, B., Isaac, R., Philip, S., Prashanth, H. R., Abraham, P., Poobalan, A., Thomas, N., Jeyaseelan, L., Mammen, J., Devarasetty, P., & John, O. (2020). Task Shifting to Frontline Community Health Workers for Improved Diabetes Care in Low-Resource Settings in India: A Phase II Non-Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Journal of Global Health Reports, 4. https://doi.org/10.29392/001c.17609 Battaglia, T. A., Zhang, X., Dwyer, A. J., Rush, C. H., & Paskett, E. D. (2022). Change Agents in the Oncology Workforce: Let's Be Clear About Community Health Workers and Patient Navigators. Cancer, 128(S13), 2664–2668. https://doi.org/10.1002/cncr.34194 Das, S., Grant, L., & Fernandes, G. (2023). Task Shifting Healthcare Services in the Post-Covid World: A Scoping Review. PLOS Global Public Health, 3(12), e0001712. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0001712 Dodd, R., Palagyi, A., Jan, S., Abdel-All, M., Nambiar, D., Madhira, P., Balane, C., Tian, M., Joshi, R., Abimbola, S., & Peiris, D. (2019). Organisation of Primary Health Care Systems in Low- And Middle-Income Countries: Review of Evidence on What Works and Why in the Asia-Pacific Region. BMJ Global Health, 4(Suppl 8), e001487. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2019-001487 Huang, W., Long, H., Li, J., Tao, S., Zheng, P., Tang, S., & Abdullah, A. S. (2018). Delivery of Public Health Services by Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Primary Health Care Settings in China: A Systematic Review (1996–2016). Global Health Research and Policy, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41256-018-0072-0 McCray, G. G., Haynes, B., Proeller, A., Ervin, C., & Williams-Livingston, A. (2020). Making the Case for Community Health Workers in Georgia. Journal of the Georgia Public Health Association, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.20429/jgpha.2020.080116 Mor, N., Ananth, B., Ambalam, V., Edassery, A., Meher, A., Tiwari, P., Sonawane, V., Mahajani, A., Mathur, K., Parekh, A., & Dharmaraju, R. (2023). Evolution of Community Health Workers: The Fourth Stage. Frontiers in Public Health, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1209673 Noel, L., Chen, Q., Petruzzi, L. J., Phillips, F., Garay, R., Valdez, C., Aranda, M. P., & Jones, B. (2022). Interprofessional Collaboration Between Social Workers and Community Health Workers to Address Health and Mental Health in the United States: A Systematised Review. Health &Amp; Social Care in the Community, 30(6). https://doi.org/10.1111/hsc.14061 None, N. (2022). Walking the Talk: Reimagining Primary Health Care After COVID-19. https://doi.org/10.1596/978-1-4648-1768-7 Orkin, A. M., McArthur, A., Venugopal, J., Kithulegoda, N., Martiniuk, A., Buchman, D. Z., Kouyoumdjian, F., Rachlis, B., Strike, C., & Upshur, R. (2019). Defining and Measuring Health Equity in Research on Task Shifting in High-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. SSM - Population Health, 7, 100366. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssmph.2019.100366 Pingel, E. S. (2022). Seeing Inside: How Stigma and Recognition Shape Community Health Worker Home Visits in São Paulo, Brazil. Community Health Equity Research &Amp; Policy, 44(3), 303–313. https://doi.org/10.1177/2752535x221137384 Rifkin, S. B., Fort, M., Patcharanarumol, W., & Tangcharoensathien, V. (2021). Primary Healthcare in the Time of COVID-19: Breaking the Silos of Healthcare Provision. BMJ Global Health, 6(11), e007721. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007721 Rohan, E. A., Townsend, J. S., Bermudez, A. T., Thompson, H. L., Holman, D. M., Reza, A., Tharpe, F. S., & Wennerstrom, A. (2024). Engaging Community Health Workers in Primary Care Practices. Journal of Ambulatory Care Management, 47(3), 154–167. https://doi.org/10.1097/jac.0000000000000501 Shommu, N. S., Ahmed, S., Rumana, N., Barron, G. R. S., McBrien, K. A., & Turin, T. C. (2016). What Is the Scope of Improving Immigrant and Ethnic Minority Healthcare Using Community Navigators: A Systematic Scoping Review. International Journal for Equity in Health, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-016-0298-8 Sisson, N., & Starke, J. (2022). Promotores De Salud in Montana: An Analysis of a Rural Health Care Intervention Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching and Its Place in Medical Curricula. The Linacre Quarterly, 89(1), 21–35. https://doi.org/10.1177/00243639211059346 The Role and Impact of Female Health Workers on the Well-Being of Global South Communities: A Call for Gender-Transformative Action. (2022). Archives of Women Health and Care, 5(2). https://doi.org/10.31038/awhc.2022521 Williams-Livingston, A., Henry Akintobi, T., & Banerjee, A. (2020). Community-Based Participatory Research in Action: The Patient-Centered Medical Home and Neighborhood. Journal of Primary Care &Amp; Community Health, 11. https://doi.org/10.1177/2150132720968456 Theme song, Works All The Time by Dominik Schwarzer, YouTube ID: CUBDNERZU8HXUHBS, purchased from https://www.premiumbeat.com/.   Even without trying, every night you go to bed a little wiser. Thanks for listening to Rio Bravo qWeek Podcast. We want to hear from you, send us an email at RioBravoqWeek@clinicasierravista.org, or visit our website riobravofmrp.org/qweek. See you next week!

"I'd retire tomorrow… if it weren't for health insurance." It's one of the most common concerns we hear from people approaching retirement, especially those hoping to leave work before Medicare begins at age 65. In this podcast, Nic Daniels breaks down the real planning considerations behind retiring before Medicare eligibility. From COBRA and Affordable Care Act marketplace plans to spouse coverage, bridge employment, and self-funding healthcare costs, Nic walks through the high-level options people should be aware of. But this conversation goes beyond just healthcare, because depending on how retirement income is structured, healthcare costs may be impacted by ACA subsidies, tax strategy, and withdrawal planning decisions. Nic also shares a real planning example involving a household looking to retire early and how outside assets—not retirement accounts—helped create flexibility in bridging the gap to Medicare.   Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! https://www.therealmoneypros.com Hosts: Nic Daniels ————————————————————— Ataraxis PEO https://ataraxispeo.com Tree City Advisors of Apollon: https://www.treecityadvisors.com Apollon Wealth Management: https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/ —————————————————————

Welcome to the first episode in a new, limited podcast series exploring major policy changes affecting older adults. The episode is part of our Age-Friendly Health series, which explores topics at the intersection of aging, health, health care, and health policy.In our first episode, host Katherine Ornstein welcomes Hemi Tewarson of the National Academy for State Health Policy how the The Big Beautiful Bill will impact Medicaid and state health policies affecting older adults. Their conversation explores work requirements, Medicaid financing changes, rural health investments, the sustainability of age‑friendly services, and more.Support for the Age-Friendly Health series is provided by The John A. Hartford Foundation.

This time on Code WACK! As of spring 2026, enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies have not been extended. Without congressional action, millions of Americans could face significantly higher premiums—or lose coverage altogether. Around 22 million people receive ACA premium subsidies, many of whom benefited from pandemic-era enhancements. If those aren't restored, affordability for individuals buying their own coverage will take a major hit. Meanwhile, health care costs are rising across the board. Employer-sponsored insurance premiums have seen some of the largest increases in over a decade, shifting more costs to workers through higher premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare premiums are also climbing, adding pressure on older adults. As coverage becomes less affordable, many people delay care, skip medications, or make tough financial tradeoffs just to get by. So what options do people have? Today, we revisit a timely 2025 conversation with Rachel Madley, executive director at the Center for Health and Democracy and former advisor to Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation at heal-ca.org/donate.

This time on Code WACK! As of spring 2026, enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies have not been extended. Without congressional action, millions of Americans could face significantly higher premiums—or lose coverage altogether. Around 22 million people receive ACA premium subsidies, many of whom benefited from pandemic-era enhancements. If those aren't restored, affordability for individuals buying their own coverage will take a major hit. Meanwhile, health care costs are rising across the board. Employer-sponsored insurance premiums have seen some of the largest increases in over a decade, shifting more costs to workers through higher premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare premiums are also climbing, adding pressure on older adults. As coverage becomes less affordable, many people delay care, skip medications, or make tough financial tradeoffs just to get by. So what options do people have? Today, we revisit a timely 2025 conversation with Rachel Madley, executive director at the Center for Health and Democracy and former advisor to Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation at heal-ca.org/donate.   

For decades, an MS diagnosis came with outdated advice and significant uncertainty regarding starting a family. Today, the conversation has shifted from "Is it possible?" to "How do we optimize the journey?" This week, we're taking a deep dive into the essential considerations for family planning, managing MS during pregnancy, and the crucial postpartum period.  We're joined by Dr. Riley Bove, an Associate Professor of Neurology at UCSF and a leading expert in hormonal influences on MS. Dr. Bove brings her extensive research background and clinical expertise to help us understand how to navigate disease-modifying therapies while planning a family, the biological shifts that occur during pregnancy, and how to build a robust support system for the "fourth trimester." We're also sharing study results that provide some optimistic news for people experiencing MS-related depression. We'll tell you about a study that explains the actual changes in the immune system that occur when someone with MS exercises. If you get your health insurance on the Affordable Care Act online marketplace, we'll explain why health economists feel certain that your premiums will be going up again next year. And we're also sharing some sobering research that highlights systemic inequities that prevent people with MS who rely on Medicaid from accessing high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies. We have a lot to talk about! Are you ready for RealTalk MS??! This Week: MS and family planning, pregnancy, and postpartum  :22 STUDY: High-efficacy disease-modifying therapies are not available to all Medicaid recipients   1:08 Millions have failed to renew their ACA individual health insurance plans  5:05 STUDY: Cognitive-behavioral therapy improves MS-related depression  9:32 STUDY: Researchers identify the biological mechanisms that are impacted when people with MS exercise  11:29 Dr. Riley Bove discusses family planning, pregnancy, and postpartum issues that affect women with MS  14:48 Share this episode  35:31 Next week  35:50 SHARE THIS EPISODE OF REALTALK MS Just copy this link & paste it into your text or email: https://realtalkms.com/453 ADD YOUR VOICE TO THE CONVERSATION I've always thought about the RealTalk MS podcast as a conversation. And this is your opportunity to join the conversation by sharing your feedback, questions, and suggestions for topics that we can discuss in future podcast episodes. Please shoot me an email or call the RealTalk MS Listener Hotline and share your thoughts! Email: jon@realtalkms.com Phone: (310) 526-2283 And don't forget to join us in the RealTalk MS Facebook group! LINKS If your podcast app doesn't allow you to click on these links, you'll find them in the show notes at www.RealTalkMS.com STUDY: Access to High-Efficacy Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis Under Medicaid: Variation in Coverage and Utilization Across States https://aan.com/msa/Public/Events/AbstractDetails/61520 STUDY: Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2026/04170/effectivess_of_cognitive_behavioral_therapy_for.27.aspx STUDY: Physical Exercise Modulates T Cell Activity and Mitigates Synaptic Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis Through Vagus Nerve Engagement https://sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889159126002710 UCSF Clinical Trials: Pregnancy Registry, Infants, Serum/Milk Analysis (PRISMA) https://clinicaltrials.ucsf.edu/trial/NCT06940323 AbleNOW https://ablenow.com JOIN: The RealTalk MS Facebook Group https://facebook.com/groups/realtalkms REVIEW: Give RealTalk MS a rating and review http://www.realtalkms.com/review Follow RealTalk MS on X, @RealTalkMS_jon, and subscribe to our newsletter at our website, RealTalkMS.com. RealTalk MS Episode 453 Guest: Dr. Riley Bove Privacy Policy

It's Indicators of the Week. Our weekly look at some of the most fascinating economic numbers from the news. On today's episode: the drama behind the Fed Chair nominee's wealth; the shoe company Allbirds is becoming an AI firm; and a drop in how many people are paying for their Affordable Care Act plans.The Indicator is launching a newsletter! Be among the first and sign-up now: npr.org/indicatornewsletterCome see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tourRelated episodes: One Fed battle after anotherThe ghosts of Obamacare past, present and futureAllbirds: Tim Brown & Joey ZwillingerFor sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy