Podcasts about ssdi

8.8.25. MTA Max Page with Jonathan Hecht on reforming stipends. Atty James Winston impact cuts to SSI & SSDI. Nina Kleinberg on Casablanca at Amherst Cinema. Northampton Mayoral Candidate David Dombrowski.

8.8.25. MTA Max Page with Jonathan Hecht on reforming stipends. Atty James Winston impact cuts to SSI & SSDI. Nina Kleinberg on Casablanca at Amherst Cinema. Northampton Mayoral Candidate David Dombrowski.

8.8.25. MTA Max Page with Jonathan Hecht on reforming stipends. Atty James Winston impact cuts to SSI & SSDI. Nina Kleinberg on Casablanca at Amherst Cinema. Northampton Mayoral Candidate David Dombrowski.

8.8.25. MTA Max Page with Jonathan Hecht on reforming stipends. Atty James Winston impact cuts to SSI & SSDI. Nina Kleinberg on Casablanca at Amherst Cinema. Northampton Mayoral Candidate David Dombrowski.

Tom Foley began 2021 as the new Executive Director of National Disability Institute (NDI).Trained as a tax lawyer and financial planner, Tom has more than 30 years of experience in the disability community. As a person who is blind, he has been an advocate and dedicated his career to partnering with other thought leaders to address the complex drivers of economic inequality and create pathways to employment and financial security for the most vulnerable communities. In addition, Tom has been instrumental in developing and influencing federal and state legislation to encourage employment and increase participation of people with disabilities in employment and wealth-building programs. He most recently held the position of Managing Director at the World Institute on Disability.Tom says: I think financial institutions, educators and banks each have to recognize the disability community as a specific market segment of the population that have been traditionally underserved and have a demonstrated need for access to financial tools and services. Once they make the decision to work with the disability community, they need to partner with organizations who are particularly well-positioned to provide industry technical assistance to reach the disability community and further the financial industry's inclusion goals – like National Disability Institute. For example, NDI reaches two million people per year and has been doing this for 15 years. We are particularly well situated, through our research, policy and practice, to reach this community.In addition, it's important for banks and financial institutions to target people with disabilities through their CRA activities. NDI's Center for Disability-Inclusive Community Development (CDICD) works to improve the usage of the opportunities and resources available under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). This is really important as millions of dollars, that could help people with disabilities in LMI communities, goes unspent every year. Through NDI's research, we've identified that Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities with disability are the most underserved. How do we change this? Financial institutions, in particular, need to make a concerted effort to work with and support this segment of the community. In addition, we, the disability community, need to be intentional in our own efforts to better address these issues.© 2025 All Rights Reserved© 2025 Building Abundant Success!!Join Me on ~ iHeart Media @ https://tinyurl.com/iHeartBASSpot Me on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yxuy23baAmazon ~ https://tinyurl.com/AmzBASAudacy:  https://tinyurl.com/BASAud

Learn what the One Big Beautiful Bill Act means for your taxes, benefits, and financial planning. Then, understand how to adapt to living on disability insurance. What tax changes are coming from the federal budget bill? Can you save money while living on disability? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola unpack the latest legislative changes to help you understand how they'll impact your finances. Joined by senior news writer Anna Helhoski, they explain how the nearly 900-page budget bill alters the tax landscape, including extensions of Trump-era cuts, new deductions for car loan interest and tipped income, and major clean energy credit rollbacks. They also explain what the end of certain EV and solar credits means for your 2025 tax strategy and how new "Trump Accounts" for babies could factor into long-term savings. Then, personal finance Nerd Kate Ashford joins Sean and Elizabeth to help answer a listener's question about how to manage their finances while on disability. They cover SSDI vs. SSI, saving strategies despite income limits, and whether it's possible to start a nonprofit or invest money without risking benefits. They also discuss emotional support during life transitions, who should consider disability insurance, and how to shop for a policy while you're still healthy. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: federal budget 2025, tax cuts 2025, Trump tax cuts extension, new tax deductions 2025, car loan interest deduction, tipped income tax exemption, overtime income tax deduction, SALT deduction 2025, standard deduction for seniors, clean energy tax credits ending, EV tax credit deadline, solar panel tax credit expiration, energy efficient home improvement credit, Trump baby savings accounts, Medicaid work requirements, SNAP cuts 2028, ACA premium increases 2025, health insurance cost increase, student loan changes 2026, repayment assistance program 2026, graduate student loan limit, SSDI savings rules, how to save on SSDI, investing while on SSDI, SSDI vs SSI, work income limit on disability, disability benefits income cap, short term disability insurance, long term disability insurance, how to buy disability insurance, SSDI work expense deductions, how to qualify for disability benefits, financial planning on disability, and new tax rules 2025. To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com. Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord's people.” - 1 Corinthians 14:33We're continuing our series on temperaments—how our God-given wiring shapes the way we communicate, relate to others, and make financial decisions. Kathleen Edelman is back with us, joined by Andrew Stanley, as we take a closer look at the Blue temperament and its influence on our approach to money.Kathleen Edelman is the author of I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication. She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over 30 years coaching clients in the art of effective communication.Andrew Stanley is a nationally touring stand-up comedian who's been performing across the country since 2016. You can learn more at AndrewStanleyComedy.com. In this episode, he also joins us as our representative for the Blue Temperament.The Four Temperaments in a NutshellBefore diving into blue specifically, Kathleen offers a quick primer on all four temperaments:Yellow (Sanguine) – Extroverted and people-oriented, they speak the language of fun and relationships.Red (Choleric) – Task-oriented extroverts who value power and control.Blue (Melancholic) – Introverted and task-focused, they speak the language of perfection and order.Green (Phlegmatic) – Introverted but people-oriented, seeking peace and harmony.Each temperament influences not just relationships, but also how people handle money, make decisions, and respond under pressure.Blues and the Search for SafetyFor those with a blue temperament, safety isn't just a preference—it's a core emotional need. Blues thrive in environments where things are predictable, orderly, and well-organized. They naturally seek clarity, structure, and control to feel secure. When it comes to money, this often means creating detailed budgets, developing long-term plans, and being cautious when making financial decisions without having all the necessary information. Blues may prefer to save rather than spend, not because they're stingy, but because a growing bank account feels like a safety net against life's uncertainties. They can struggle with risk and may delay action if they feel unsure, even if the opportunity is wise or time-sensitive.In relationships, this drive for safety shows up in how blues communicate and connect with others. They crave understanding and support but may not always express those needs clearly. Because they process deeply and thoroughly, they often require space and time before responding, especially in moments of conflict or when making big decisions. If rushed or misunderstood, they may withdraw, using silence as a way to regain control or avoid making a mistake. However, when their need for emotional safety is honored through patience, empathy, and clear communication, they can be deeply loyal, thoughtful, and intentional partners. Understanding this temperament helps others engage them with compassion and build stronger, more harmonious relationships.Advice for and About BluesIf you have a blue temperament, give yourself permission to take the time you need to process decisions, especially those involving finances. Your thoughtful, analytical nature is a gift, but it can also lead to overthinking or decision paralysis. Don't let the desire for perfection keep you from making progress. Instead, set realistic deadlines, seek wise counsel, and remember that not every choice has to be airtight before it's made. Lean into your strengths—planning, order, and foresight—while also allowing space for joy, spontaneity, and relational connection. A budget isn't just a safety tool; it can also be a pathway to shared experiences and generous living.For those in a relationship with a blue—whether in marriage, friendship, or at work—understand that their quiet moments are rarely a sign of apathy. Blues often feel deeply but express slowly. They value being understood and respected, especially when making important decisions. Don't rush them. Instead, provide information clearly and give them time to reflect. Be patient if they seem hesitant or cautious. Underneath that careful exterior is someone who longs for peace, harmony, and purpose. When you honor their need for safety and support, you'll discover a loyal, wise, and dependable partner who brings depth and stability to any relationship.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My wife and I are carrying about $8,500 in credit card debt, plus a car loan. I've been considering opening a new credit card with an introductory 0% interest rate to help us pay it down more quickly. My wife's grandmother also mentioned a credit card relief program, but I'm worried it might hurt our credit. What's the best way for us to tackle this debt?Thank you for the financial advice you share on the program. It's helped me organize my finances, set up separate accounts, and start investing early. I'm grateful for the practical wisdom you offer!I'm on SSDI and have limited resources, but I'm wondering if it's still worthwhile to start investing. My daughter helps manage my finances, and I could probably set aside about $100 a month. Is starting small like that a good idea?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication by Kathleen EdelmanAndrewStanleyComedy.comChristian Credit CounselorsThe Sound Mind Investing Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Your Money From a Biblical Perspective by Austin Pryor with Mark BillerWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Jon Hansen is joined by Social Security Disability Attorney Jeff Rabin of The Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates to talk about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), how they’re paid for and how often there is pushback. For more information, call 312-431-1000.

¿Sabías que más del 90 % de las solicitudes de Seguro Social por incapacidad se rechazan en el primer intento? ⚠️ En este episodio de Contacto PYMEs te revelamos cómo aumentar tus probabilidades de éxito junto al Lcdo. Marcos A. Rivera, abogado con amplia trayectoria en casos de SSI y SSDI en Puerto Rico y EE. UU.

For many parents, retirement planning includes the idea of an empty nest. But what if that's never going to be your reality? Today, Phil answers a viewer question about how to plan for retirement while continuing to care for an adult child on the autism spectrum. It's a question more families are facing, and in this episode, we're walking through the financial and emotional factors that come with a “forever caregiving” retirement. From budgets to housing needs, your retirement roadmap may look entirely different, but it can still be achievable with the right strategies. Here's some of what we discuss in this episode:

What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)? Many have never heard of these terms and those who have are often confused by them. Partner and attorney, Chris Johnson, dives into SSI and SSDI with attorney Steve Perrigo. Prior to becoming an attorney in 2010, Steve spent 17 years working for the Social Security Administration helping hundreds of individuals.

Have a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 5, Episode 15 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "Allsup, and Filing Concurrent Social Security Disability and Long-Term Disability Claims."Join attorney Nancy L. Cavey, a leading expert in disability claims, for an eye-opening discussion on the intersection of ERISA Disability insurance and Social Security Disability benefits. If your Long-Term Disability carrier has suggested using a third-party service like Allsup to handle your SSDI application, you're not alone - but is that really in your best interest? In today's episode, we're pulling back the curtain on what Allsup promises versus what you may actually experience. From the fine print in your ERISA policy to the strategic timing of your SSDI application, we'll explore why many claimants are required to apply for Social Security Disability - often before their Long-Term Disability claim is even approved. Whether you're just starting the claims process or re-evaluating your options, this episode is packed with essential guidance to help you make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and protect your financial future. So, let's get into it.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:One - Did Your ERISA Disability Carrier Suggest That You Use Allsup to File a Claim for Social Security Disability Insurance? Why the Four Claims That Allsup Makes About Why You Should Use Them to Handle Your Social Security Disability Don't Make SenseTwo - Is Allsup Really Interested in Helping Me or the Disability Insurance Carrier When the Carrier Recommends I Use Allsup to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits?Whether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Listen to Our Sister Podcast:We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. Give it a listen: https://wiessdpodcast.buzzsprout.com/Resources Mentioned in This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/ltd-robbed-of-your-piece-of-mindLINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/professionals-guide-to-ltd-benefitsFREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals. 

 Ken opens up about life after a devastating neck injury, sharing raw stories of pain, recovery, and resilience. From battles with workers' comp and SSDI to finding humor in goats replacing lawnmowers, he reflects on the emotional weight of chronic pain, lost passions, and adapting to new realities. Blending grit with humor, Ken also dives into the trucking world—old gear, DOT inspections, e-logs, and the mental toll of the road—always reminding us that healing is more than just physical.   Donate to help our Coworker's son during his battle with Cancer! Click HERE to donate! Support The Show KEEP US FUELED: buymeacoffee.com/hammerlane Gear: https://www.hammerlanelegends.com/gear Share Your Stories EMAIL US YOUR STORIES: hammerlanelegends@gmail.com Website: www.hammerlanelegends.com Follow The Show YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC5TWlB5Yqx8JlQr3p3bkkMg Facebook: www.facebook.com/hammerlanelegends Facebook Fan Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hll Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/hammerlanelegends Instagram Mobile: @hammerlanelegends Twitter Desktop: www.twitter.com/HLLPodcast Twitter Mobile: @HLLpodcast Follow The Team Brian Merkel Facebook: www.facebook.com/brian.merkel.94 Instagram Desktop: www.instagram.com/brianmerkeloffical/ Instagram Mobile: @brianmerkelofficial Produced by: Jason York Follow Jason on Instagram @jyorkofficial Share 

The Social Security system is set to run out of money by 2033. The number of people receiving SSDI is skyrocketing and there is fraud within the system. Lets look at what is going on and what DOGE and others are finding.

Chris tackles the ‘Nilf' epidemic. 7 million prime-age men (24-54) not in the labor force, neither working nor looking, a tenth of their demographic, blaming decades of Great Society handouts turned narcotic, as he argued in his old Drug Pusher piece citing Cato Institute data. With three Nilfs for every unemployed job-seeker, he scoffs at Trump's factory revival dreams, noting these ‘long-termers, won't budge, fueled by a dysfunctional $7 trillion disability archipelago (SSDI, SSI, VA benefits, and more) that's spiked sevenfold since 1965. Markowski warns cutting benefits is political suicide; the fix starts with eighth-grade prep and grandfathering current Nilfs. www.watchdogonwallstreet.com

March 10, 2025 Episode 28Should You Apply for Disability After a Stroke? Steps to Take With Sam Schad In this episode of “Stronger After Stroke,” we tackle a crucial question for stroke survivors: Should you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits? Navigating the SSDI application process can be overwhelming, but knowing when and how to apply can make all the difference. Our expert guest, Sam Schad from Schad Law, has spent his career advocating for individuals with disabilities, managing all aspects of SSDI claims. As one of the first non-attorney representatives eligible for direct payment from the Social Security Administration, Sam has decades of experience helping people present their cases effectively. He also works closely with medical professionals to ensure that patient impairments are well-documented for the claims process. In this episode, we discuss: Key factors to determine if you qualify for SSDI after a stroke The timeline for applying and what to expect during the process The most common reasons claims get denied and how to avoid them How to work with your doctors to strengthen your application What to do if your claim is denied and how to appeal If you or a loved one is struggling with the decision to apply for disability, this episode will provide essential guidance to help you move forward with confidence.

Minisode 007 | Lance highlights how traditional corporate work culture fails to account for the gray area of vision loss. He explains how blind individuals are often forced to choose between capped SSDI payments or employment that expects them to perform the same duties as their sighted peers for the same pay, despite the unique challenges they face. SEE-THROUGH is hosted by Lance Johnson. Based in New York City, Lance is a video editor living with the eye disease - retinitis pigmentosa or RP for short. In most cases, RP causes legal-blindness by the age of 40. Now 34, Lance uses SEE-THROUGH as a platform to explore his future of blindness through transparent conversations with his guests. ------------------------- MERCH: Visit: https://seethroughpod.com/merch ------------------------- SOCIAL LINKS: YouTube: https://bit.ly/3JRSPEO Instagram: https://instagram.com/seethroughpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@seethroughpod Twitter: https://twitter.com/seethroughpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seethroughpod Website: https://www.seethroughpod.com/  

With financial fraud on the rise, protecting your personal and banking information has never been more important. A recent JD Power study found that nearly 29% of bank account holders experienced fraud in some form over a 12-month period.To help us navigate the best security practices, Aaron Caid shares expert advice on how to safeguard your accounts from cybercriminals.Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. 1. Strengthen Your Password SecurityA strong, unique password is your first line of defense against fraud. Here's how to create one that's tough to crack:Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.Avoid using common words or easily guessed phrases (e.g., "password123" or your birthdate).Consider using a password manager to generate and securely store complex passwords.In addition to a strong password, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your financial apps. This extra layer of security requires a one-time passcode (usually sent via text or an authentication app) to verify your identity when logging in or completing transactions.Pro Tip: Turn off text message previews on your phone. If a scammer steals your phone, they could see your passcode on your lock screen and gain access to your accounts.2. Monitor Your Accounts & Stay Alert for FraudVigilance is key when it comes to detecting fraudulent activity early.Regularly check your bank accounts for unauthorized transactions.Review your credit reports through the three major bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com.Sign up for transaction alerts from your bank or credit union to get notified of suspicious activity.Fraudsters also use phishing scams—fake emails, texts, or calls—to trick people into giving away personal information. These scams often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly.Never share your:Username or passwordOne-time passcodesAccount or personal information over the phone, email, chat, or textHackers can spoof phone numbers and email addresses to make messages appear legitimate, even impersonating banks and credit unions. If you're ever unsure, call your financial institution directly to verify any suspicious messages.3. Use Secure Wi-Fi & Protect Your Personal InformationWe all love a good coffee shop work session, but public Wi-Fi networks are a big security risk when accessing sensitive financial accounts. Hackers can intercept your data and steal your login credentials.Always use a secure, password-protected Wi-Fi network when banking online.Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added encryption and security.Also, ensure you don't let identity thieves find your personal information in the trash!Shred documents containing sensitive details like account numbers, social security numbers, or other financial information. Shredders cost as little as $35—a small price to pay for big security.Stay Secure & Bank with PurposeAs fraud prevention becomes increasingly important, many Christians are seeking banking solutions that align with their values. Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) offers a Harvest Bundle—a unique checking and savings account designed to help members grow their savings while supporting missions worldwide.4% APY on the first $5,000 in Harvest Checking5% APY on the first $5,000 in Harvest Savings1.5% cash back on purchases with the Cash Rewards Visa CardA portion of proceeds supports missions, including gospel outreach, protecting vulnerable children, and fighting human trafficking. For those looking to align their banking with their faith, the Harvest Bundle from CCCU offers competitive rates and kingdom impact—a win-win for wise financial stewardship.If you're looking for a banking partner that reflects your faith and values, consider joining Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU).Ready to bank with purpose? Visit JoinChristianCommunity.com today!On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Can you provide a list of the faith-based investments that I can invest in? I'm trying to invest differently with my 401(k) funds.  I have an old work comp claim that was incorrectly billed, causing Medicare to deny payment. What happened, and how can I prevent this in the future? Also, if I submit a claim to the work comp company and they only pay a portion, am I responsible for the remaining balance? I own a free-and-clear home in Davenport. There is no mortgage anymore, and I would like to transfer 50% of ownership to a family member. Would I have to pay any taxes, or would my family members have to pay them because of this transfer? I'm retired, receiving $70,000 annually from disability and SSDI. I have $50,000 in a TSP account and $9,000 in debt that I'm paying off. I'm currently renting for $1,500 per month. Should I use my VA loan to purchase a home or just continue renting? I have a Roth IRA that I formed from a 403(b) annuity a couple of years ago. I'm 73 and will be 74 in a couple of months. At what point does the RMD apply to my Roth? Also, I'm retired and have Social Security and a retirement pension. I occasionally make profits from a book I publish and workshops I do. Can I make contributions to my Roth from those profits?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineList of Faith-Based Investing FundsCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS.gov)AnnualCreditReport.comLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Staying informed about Social Security changes is crucial for maximizing your benefits, and recent legislation will change benefits for a significant number of Americans. Today we're going to bring you up to speed on the Social Security Fairness Act and explain how this legislation will be retroactive to 2024, potentially offering a financial windfall for affected retirees. Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:48 – The Social Security Fairness Act 5:42 – Claiming strategies 10:22 – Strategies for dual-income households 14:03 – Previous marriages 18:31 – SSDI and SSI   For more, visit us online: http://philstaxhacks.com Watch the video podcast on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3WdDG96

Today's witnesses are from Matthew West's website called popwe.org. If you don't know who Matthew West is, he is a singer, songwriter, and storyteller. This website is for the non-profit that he has with his father, a pastor. Matthew and his father encourage people to share their stories. They have various categories of stories. Today, I chose two testimonies from the God Stories Category. Often, we can hear our own story in someone else's story. When we listen to others tell their story, it helps us see that we are not alone. When we hear how God worked in their situation, it gives us hope that He will work in ours, too! I pray when you hear these testimonies, you get the faith and hope to believe that miracles can happen in your situation, also. I pray you know that God is there with you, and if you invite Him into your situation, He can help. I hope you enjoy these testimonies.Brande: I have been dealing with back problems for a while and couldn't figure out what was going on. I was overweight so I thought that maybe that was the problem. But the more weight I lost the worse my pain became.In April of this year, I had an MRI done and found out I have Degenerative Disc Disease, Arthritis and Spinal Stenosis. I also have a tear in one of my discs and my L5 is pushing on my S1.So, in July I had an injection, and it didn't work. I went back to the doctor in August, and he had set up another injection for Sept 20th. But a week before, the doctor office called and said that my insurance would not approve another injection until I see the nurse practitioner. After I hung up the phone that day, I was upset. We were busy at work, and I was in a lot of pain. After work, I sat in my car and cried, feeling defeated. I wanted to give up.Then, as I was driving home from work, “Don't Stop Praying” come on and I started bawling. I knew that was God telling me not to stop praying.I shared this at church, and someone there works for SSDI. She called me and helped me start the process of filling for that assistance.I know this is all an answer to my prayers. That song means more to me than anyone could ever imagine not just for this situation but others as well.My name is Suzie, and this is my testimony of God's strength.Three months ago, I was faced with a dark season. This is a season I never asked for and never thought in a million years I would ever have to go through. I was lied to, and almost broken. My heart was shattered, and I felt numb to everything. I had no clue how this could happen. How could someone who is supposed to be my life partner do something like this?Being a recovering alcoholic, I could have easily fallen back to drinking to forget everything that was happening. But instead, I choose to turn to God, my Bible, and my pastor. You could say I choose the high road instead of the lonely, dead-end road. I thought I was doing well, and I was trying my hardest to keep my head up and be as strong as I could. Yet, it hurt, and I was emotionally tired. In reality, I was spiraling and not doing well at all. I felt like I was in tunnel vision and couldn't get out. I then took the first step in healing by admitting to myself I needed help and reached out to talk with a counselor. Admitting out loud that I needed help emotionally and mentally and that I was not ok, was a huge step in getting through this. In all thisI was getting signs that I needed to let go of everything I was holding onto. Which I really thought I had done. But in truth I was not listening to what God was saying to me. Until one Saturday morning.  I got a message from a friend checking in on me to see how I was doing. After talking with her I felt God telling me I need to let go of everything I am holding on to so I could start to really heal. So, I said a simple prayer that morning before getting ready for the day. After saying the prayer, God started working in my heart. During different times throughout the day, I wanted to leave where I was. But God said “No, you need to stay put. You need to be with others around you.” I soon realized I was right where I need to be, and I am stronger than I realized.   I also realized that I was truly holding onto some parts, and I needed to let go and let God work through me to heal.I am blessed beyond words that I have an awesome support system that knows when I am having a rough time or trying to fake it. I realize that I don't have to be strong all the time. It's ok for me to show my emotions and show that I am human. And it's “ok” to not be “ok” and most importantly it's “ok” to have bad days.I am thankful to God and His guidance and the love He has shown me. He has put people in my path through all of this storm for one reason or another. I am grateful for the little reminders He is showing me to keep my head up. I know my path of healing is going to be a long journey and it is not going to be easy. There are going to be tough days and easy days. If it was meant to be easy, then it wouldn't be called a storm. I am ready to see what God has in store for me no matter how long it takes.Psalm 27:14 “Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.”Thank you all for sharing your stories. I know it can be hard to be vulnerable and share what you have gone through. Yet, when we do, it helps others who are in a similar circumstance know there is hope that the same can happen for them. Please continue sharing your story. www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

Don't be ashamed to ask for help! Many people with disabilities, caregivers, and families rely on disability programs due to the added challenges in their lives that others do not face. These programs can include financial assistance, daily living supports, healthcare, and much more.   These programs go beyond being a safety net; they are often a lifeline! Without this support, many people could not live healthy, independent lives in their communities.   Dive into Disability Programs that Transform Lives to learn about the programs that could change your life of the life of a loved one! This 4-part documentary series presents the lived experiences and professional advice to motivate and help you get started.

Can the IRS Take Your SSDI Back Pay? There are many factors to the answer to this question, so listen to this episode to understand the answer! Do you have tax debt? Call us at 866-8000-TAX or fill out the form at https://choicetaxrelief.com/Mentioned Video Link:-Can the IRS Garnish Social Security?:    • Can the IRS Garnish Social Security?  -Trust Fund Recovery Penalty [For Payroll Tax Debt] Explained by a CPA:    • Trust Fund Recovery Penalty [For Payr... 

What are ABLE accounts and how can they help disabled folks save money?On episode 548 of the Queer Money Podcast, hosts John and David welcome back Brynn Conroy, founder of Femme Frugality and Disability Finance. They discuss the challenges Americans face in qualifying for social security disability benefits and how the system often forces poverty. Conroy delves into the details of ABLE accounts, designed to help those with disabilities achieve a better quality of life by offering tax advantages and allowing savings without jeopardizing benefits like SSI and SSDI. The conversation also touches on the impact of ableism in the workplace, systemic issues, and how the pandemic has strained systems for people with disabilities. Conroy provides insights from her lived experience and emphasizes the importance of financial education and legislative advocacy for improving disability finance.Topics Discussed00:00 Introduction to Social Security Disability Benefits 00:46 Welcome to Queer Money Podcast01:45 Introducing Brynn Conroy and Disability Finance04:47 Challenges Faced by Disabled Individuals06:56 Understanding Disability Definitions and Models19:15 Income and Asset Restrictions for Disabled Individuals23:30 Political and Social Issues Surrounding Disability26:37 The Impact of ADAPT on Disability Laws27:13 Understanding ABLE Accounts29:04 ABLE Accounts and Inheritance29:58 Medicaid Payback and Trusts31:20 Housing Benefits of ABLE Accounts31:58 Challenges and Resources for Disability Finance35:51 Expanding Eligibility for ABLE Accounts37:49 Disability in the Queer Community42:23 Real-Life Benefits of ABLE Accounts45:26 How to Open an ABLE Account47:42 Global Perspectives on Disability49:33 Final Thoughts and ResourcesFor the resources and to connect with our guests, get the show notes at: https://queermoneypodcast.com/subscribe Follow us:Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeQueer Money on TiktokConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedInDownload your FREE Queer Money Kickstarter a 9-step Guide to Kickstart Your Journey to Financial Independence

Send us a textDiscover the critical financial strategies that can transform the lives of families with autism in our latest episode of "Why Not Me." Join us as we sit down with Andrew Smith, an experienced financial planner who specializes in guiding families with special needs. With a personal connection to the cause, Andrew delves into the complex world of government benefits like SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid, shedding light on how families can navigate these programs while addressing unique financial needs such as medical and travel expenses. His insights emphasize the importance of personalized planning and utilizing specialized tools to create secure financial futures.Ever wondered how to manage the financial complexities that come with an autism diagnosis? Andrew walks us through the essential first step of securing case management and introduces the ABLE plan—a game-changing financial tool for individuals with disabilities. Similar to a 529 college savings plan, the ABLE plan allows for savings beyond the typical asset limits without jeopardizing benefits. Andrew explains how understanding state-specific rules and investment options can provide a hopeful and clear path forward for families, easing the emotional and financial burdens that come with such diagnoses.Protecting assets for children with autism is a crucial task for any parent, and Andrew lays out the importance of third-party special needs trusts in this episode. Learn how these trusts can ensure that assets are managed according to the parents' wishes without disqualifying the child from necessary aid. We also cover the role of professional trustees and the vital need for educating both clients and advisors to improve service quality. Through Andrew's expertise, we aim to inspire and reassure families, showing them that they are not alone on this challenging, yet hopeful, journey towards a secure financial future.https://tonymantor.comhttps://Facebook.com/tonymantorhttps://instagram.com/tonymantorhttps://twitter.com/tonymantorhttps://youtube.com/tonymantormusicintro/outro music bed written by T. WildWhy Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 29 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "The Intersection of SSDI and ERISA, P2 - Vocational Evaluation." Host Nancy L. Cavey, a seasoned attorney with extensive experience in disability claims, discusses the intersection of SSDI and ERISA claims. While SSDI and ERISA are completely different things, they do share some similarities in process, and are often intertwined in the course of applying for disability. Often, when you're applying for one, you are required to apply for the other. That is why it is vital to be knowledgeable regarding both. In the second part of this multi-part series, your host Nancy L. Cavey will be diving into the specifics of the vocational evaluations applicants will undergo. In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:1 -  The Vocational Denial Toolbox2 - The Game Played at the Any Occupation Stage3 - How to Attack the Common Mistakes Made at the Own Occupation Stage of an ERISA CaseWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Resources Mentioned In This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://caveylaw.com/get-free-reports/get-disability-book/LINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://caveylaw.com/get-free-reports/disability-insurance-claim-survival-guide-professionals/FREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

Navigating the transition to adulthood with your neurodivergent child can be overwhelming and fraught with uncertainties. In this episode of Beautifully Complex, my guest, Shannon Urquiola and I explore the critical aspects of preparing kids on the spectrum for adulthood, addressing common pain points like guardianship, financial planning, SSI, and vocational rehabilitation. You'll gain insights into crucial legal processes and the importance of starting early, as well as practical tips for ensuring your child's needs are met.From understanding the guardianship process and navigating Social Security benefits to involving vocational rehab in IEP meetings, this episode covers the essential elements you need to consider. Shannon shares strategies to prepare your child for independence, highlights from her own experiences, and the importance of detailed documentation and early planning.By focusing on these key elements, you can better understand the steps needed to support your child's journey into adulthood. Tune in to learn how to manage the emotional and logistical challenges and discover resources that can make this transition smoother for both you and your child. Don't miss this information-packed episode that provides valuable tools and encouragement for parents and guardians.Subscribe, share, and gain peace of mind knowing you're not alone in this journey.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

They think the problem involving prior authorizations can be fixed with legislation. So the evil MA trolls won't find another way to use their enslaved members to extract more cash from the US Treasury? On the Wikipedia page about Medicare, we learn about out-of-pocket costs: deductibles, co-pays, co-insurance and IRMAA. Correspondence with clients and prospects, such as Patricia who may have been tricked into a MA plan without her knowledge or consent. Thomas fell 30 feet off a roof and has been in SSDI. MLM was able to enroll him in Plan A in his home state of Virginia. Howard was hoping that we post our MA articles on a bulletin board somewhere. Finally, Frank is not so sure he wants to enroll in an HDG plan in spite of the very low premium. I think Frank is overlooking the long-term HDG advantages!   Contact me at: DBJ@MLMMailbag.com (Most severe critic: A+)   Inspired by: "MEDICARE FOR THE LAZY MAN 2024; Simplest & Easiest Guide Ever!" on Amazon.com. Return to leave a short customer review & help future readers. Official website: https://www.MedicareForTheLazyMan.com.

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 27 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "The Intersection of SSDI and ERISA P1 - The Vocational Games That Are Played in an ERISA Case." Host Nancy L. Cavey, a seasoned attorney with extensive experience in disability claims, discusses the intersection of SSDI and ERISA claims. While SSDI and ERISA are completely different things, they do share some similarities in process, and are often intertwined in the course of applying for disability. Often, when you're applying for one, you are required to apply for the other. That is why it is vital to be knowledgeable regarding both. In the first part of this multi-part series, your host Nancy L. Cavey will be diving into the specifics of the vocational games that carriers will play in ERISA claims, and how that correlates with the process of SSDI.In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:1 -  The ERISA Golden Rule2 - Step 4 Overview3 - Step 5 OverviewWhether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.Resources Mentioned In This Episode:LINK TO ROBBED OF YOUR PEACE OF MIND: https://caveylaw.com/get-free-reports/get-disability-book/LINK TO THE DISABILITY INSURANCE CLAIM SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS: https://caveylaw.com/get-free-reports/disability-insurance-claim-survival-guide-professionals/FREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/Need Help Today?:Need help with your Long-Term Disability or ERISA claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.Review, like, and give us a thumbs up wherever you are listening to Winning Isn't Easy. We love to see your feedback about our podcast, and it helps us grow and improve.Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.

Parents naturally want to make sure their child with disabilities is well taken care of, both now and in the future. It's not just about meeting the day-to-day needs but also thinking ahead to their long-term financial security. There's a lot to juggle—from managing medical expenses to planning for their financial future. It can feel pretty overwhelming and complicated. In this episode, host Annette Hines welcomes financial planning expert, James Lange, to discuss the crucial need for specialized financial planning for parents of children with disabilities. James emphasizes the importance of working with advisors who understand the unique financial needs of these families and securing government benefits like SSI or SSDI to ensure long-term support. The conversation covers essential legal documents such as wills and trusts, and James offers a free copy of his book, “Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability,” packed with strategies for financial planning. Annette and James delve into the practical and emotional aspects of financial security, reflecting on how proactive planning can provide peace of mind and a brighter future for children with disabilities.   In this episode, you will hear: The importance of collaborating with specialized financial planners and tax advisors for families with children with disabilities Key government benefits essential for the financial support of children with disabilities The necessity of creating appropriate wills, trusts, and powers of attorney tailored for children with disabilities How proper financial planning can alleviate anxiety for parents raising children with disabilities Why it is important to involve the child in the financial planning process Resources from this Episode: Free digital copy of Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability Website: https://DisabledChildPlanning.com Facebook:  @RothRevolution Twitter/X: @rothguy  LinkedIn:@jameslangecpa Other Sites:https://PayTaxesLater.com Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

We're happy to bring you some of our listener favorites during the next few weeks. These episodes are sure to pique your interest by featuring topics important to each of us Enjoy!We are pivoting from our normal education-centric topics today to take a broader view of the financial side of raising a child with a disability. We want to make sure that families, and people working with these families, have all the resources and tools for a well-rounded toolkit for supporting their kids. We welcome James Lange to the podcast to share his practical insights and expertise.James Lange is a CPA, a state attorney in Pennsylvania, and the author of nine best-selling financial books. He is a nationally recognized IRA, 401(k), and retirement plan distribution expert. As a result of his daughter's disability, James developed a passion for helping parents who need to provide sufficient care for a disabled child even beyond their own lifetime. He explains how he and his wife are providing for their daughter's future and what parents of a disabled child should do right now to ensure the financial future of their child. Show Highlights:James' plan to provide for his daughter for the rest of her lifeJames' mission to help parents of children with disabilities optimize their financial assetsThree steps to take right now for your disabled child: Get your child qualified for government benefits in the SSI or SSDI. (James explains the #1 mistake most parents make in applying for these benefits.)Get your estate planning done appropriately with the proper trust or conservatorship option. (Don't rely on “Joe Schmo Attorney” for this!)Get the Roth IRA conversion strategy done right by a financial professional. (The difference in doing this correctly and incorrectly can amount to a huge difference in available funds for your child.) Best resources for parents to use in their education and planning:Get James' FREE book, Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability. Click here!Sign up for Expert Advice for Parents of Children with Disabilities: A Virtual Summit, June 18-20, 2024. Click here for more information about this FREE event!Links/Resources:Connect with James Lange: Disabled Child Planning, Pay Taxes Later, and LInkedInContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org Thank you for listening! Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be...

We explore essential planning for parents of children with disabilities with CPA and estate attorney James Lange! Note and disclaimer - this episode deviates from our previous episodes in that it is about financial planning and how to provide for our kids after us. Please use your usual due diligence and research before implementing these strategies. Also please note that this episode is very US-centric. James shares his personal experience and provides valuable insights, emphasizing three critical steps: getting the child approved for SSI or SSDI, creating a special needs trust for estate planning, and optimizing taxes through Roth IRA conversions. James offers a free book, 'Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability,' and a virtual summit for further resources and support. Connect with James Lange at www.paytaxeslater.com and explore his book, “Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability,” for more detailed guidance.

Tom Foley began 2021 as the new Executive Director of National Disability Institute (NDI).Trained as a tax lawyer and financial planner, Tom has more than 30 years of experience in the disability community. As a person who is blind, he has been an advocate and dedicated his career to partnering with other thought leaders to address the complex drivers of economic inequality and create pathways to employment and financial security for the most vulnerable communities. In addition, Tom has been instrumental in developing and influencing federal and state legislation to encourage employment and increase participation of people with disabilities in employment and wealth-building programs. He most recently held the position of Managing Director at the World Institute on Disability.Tom says: I think financial institutions, educators and banks each have to recognize the disability community as a specific market segment of the population that have been traditionally underserved and have a demonstrated need for access to financial tools and services. Once they make the decision to work with the disability community, they need to partner with organizations who are particularly well-positioned to provide industry technical assistance to reach the disability community and further the financial industry's inclusion goals – like National Disability Institute. For example, NDI reaches two million people per year and has been doing this for 15 years. We are particularly well situated, through our research, policy and practice, to reach this community.In addition, it's important for banks and financial institutions to target people with disabilities through their CRA activities. NDI's Center for Disability-Inclusive Community Development (CDICD) works to improve the usage of the opportunities and resources available under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). This is really important as millions of dollars, that could help people with disabilities in LMI communities, goes unspent every year. Through NDI's research, we've identified that Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities with disability are the most underserved. How do we change this? Financial institutions, in particular, need to make a concerted effort to work with and support this segment of the community. In addition, we, the disability community, need to be intentional in our own efforts to better address these issues.© 2024 All Rights Reserved© 2024 Building Abundant Success!!Join Me on ~ iHeart Media @ https://tinyurl.com/iHeartBASSpot Me on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yxuy23baAmazon ~ https://tinyurl.com/AmzBASAudacy:  https://tinyurl.com/BASAud

In the US, there is something often called a 'marriage penalty' for people with disabilities. We dig into the very complicated and often heartbreaking details of what this is, and why the system was designed this way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dwayne Keys grew up in Wilmington Delaware in what he describes as a very low income home with a single mother and two younger sisters. Dwayne constantly talks about how his mom instilled in him high values of ethics and self sufficiency. At the age of 16 his mother told Dwayn that he needed to get a job and begin earning an income to help support the household as well as to be able to buy things he wanted as a growing boy.   As Dwayne tells it, he moved from the 2nd smallest state in the country to the smallest one when he moved to Providence Rhode Island at the age of 18 to attend college. By the end of his college career he had obtained a Master's degree in marketing. He worked at several financial institutions, but in 2017 he decided it was time for a change in his life. He switched careers from working in the profit-making world to working for a nonprofit, Compass Working Capital as a financial coach to educate and assist low income people through a HUD program called Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS). He has risen through the ranks at Compass as you will hear.   Dwayne is quite passionate about his work. Over the next five years he hopes to continue to grow at Compass. Also, he plans to run for political office in Providence in 2026. He will tell us all about his plans. I bet he succeeds.   About the Guest:   Born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, I grew up in a single-parent household with my mother and 2 younger sisters on my maternal side. As the oldest child and only boy, my mother was determined to instill responsibility and accountability in me from a very young age.   As a student, I was very interested in my marketing classes and participated in DECA, which led to me applying to Johnson & Wales University. In moving to Providence, Rhode Island to pursue higher education. While studying to earn my Associate's degree in Retailing, my Bachelor's degree in Marketing, and my M.B.A. in International Trade at Johnson & Wales.   After deciding to make Providence my permanent home during my first year of graduate school, I made it a point to expand my friends and networks to people outside of my college life by getting involved in many community organizations and activities in line with my passion for economic justice and prosperity. By participating in the Urban League and their Young Professionals, I was able to experience being a community organizer and activist while also being involved in politics at the state and local levels.   Over time, my focus has transitioned to that of ending systemic oppression and structural exclusion while also being a proponent of an�-racism and economic opportunity for all. While I remain a community organizer at heart, I've participated in decision making bodies with the City of Providence – Equal Pay Task Force, Special Commission to Study a Progressive Tiered Property Tax, Providence Municipal Reparations Commission – as an additional way of achieving equity and inclusion along economic means for Black and Brown residents in the city. This hasn't been easy working in the for-profit financial services industry, yet under my current employer I've found the perfect balance between my vocation and my commitment to community advancement.   Ways to connect with Dwayne: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwaynekeys/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dwayne.keys3/ Twitter/X - DKeys_PVD Instagram – dkeyspvd   About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog.   Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards.   https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/   accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/   https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/       Thanks for listening!   Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!   Subscribe to the podcast   If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.   Leave us an Apple Podcasts review   Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.     Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson ** 00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson ** 01:21 Hi, I am your host, Michael Hingson. And you are listening to unstoppable mindset today, we get to chat with Dwayne Keys. And Dwayne has an interesting story. One thing that really attracted me to Dwayne when we first started talking is he pointed out that he moved from the second smallest state in the union to the smallest state in the union. And I want to know more about that. So we'll have to deal with that and who knows what else. Dwayne, welcome to unstoppable mindset. We're really glad you're here.   Dwayne Keys ** 01:52 I am so glad to be here with you as well, Michael, and I'm just looking forward to, you know, speaking and you know, for your listeners to hear more about my experiences story.   Michael Hingson ** 02:04 Well, let's start then. We do have to get to how come you went from bigger to smaller, but tell us tell us a little bit more about you growing up sort of the early Dwayne, if you will. Yeah,   Dwayne Keys ** 02:17 the early to Dwayne. I was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware. I am, you know, some of the facts that people don't know until they really get to know me, I am the younger of fraternal twins that was born. So I had a twin brother to White who had passed away when I was a year, we were both a year old. So you know, I, you know, I my family expanded with my mother had two other children, my younger sister lover, who was two years younger than me. And then 11 years later, my mother had another addition with my other sister, Vivian. So in terms of growing up, that was my family unit in terms of what I knew, in terms of my father, I always say, I can count the number of memories on one hand of my father, although he did live in the same city. And he also had children as well. Siblings that I really didn't even today don't really know. But knew of and we're aware of.   Michael Hingson ** 03:23 So they were in Wilmington. Yeah,   Dwayne Keys ** 03:27 we were all in Wilmington. My first few years were obviously live, we're living with my grandparents. And, you know, my mother was a young single mother. You know, in hindsight now, it's very easy to say and speak of that. I grew up in a low income household because my mother always was working full time. Also, part time, she was always supporting us, the family, and there are moments where I can reflect on it, we were financially challenged, but yet, I didn't know it growing up, you wouldn't ever known that just how my mother was determined that we would have a comfortable living environment and that we had we need but it's now knowing when I know it's like, oh, we definitely were poor.   Michael Hingson ** 04:16 Yeah. Isn't it interesting how parents keep that from children. And I can appreciate that and understand it because she didn't want you to worry about those kinds of things right. Yeah,   Dwayne Keys ** 04:29 I mean, it's you know, it kind of thinking about it like you didn't you can remember there's moments where the electrical turned off or something that disconnected or there was a notice of something. But as I you know, I she was very supportive of me really, she was very direct on getting good grades, anything with less than a C was unacceptable in the house, and then even if you got to see that was still she always emphasized you can always do better But she definitely had a very high expectation of me not only of, you know, doing well in school, staying out of trouble, but also just being more then the lived experience. So, you know, you know, just, you know, questions about going to college she was very big on, I see you going to college, I see you doing these things, I see you doing more than what we knew in terms of Wilmington, Delaware, more than what the life and she would always emphasize that I don't want you to have to work two jobs, I don't want you to have to struggle like this, I want you to be able to have a you know, have an excellent life have a way of life where you can do work, but get compensated for it. So it was always my you go to school to get the good grades to get the degree so that you can get paid well and not have to struggle financially.   Michael Hingson ** 05:54 Like she did. Did she say those things to you?   Dwayne Keys ** 05:58 Yes, she did. She was as I gotten older, and particularly as I became a teenager. And then as I got to the point where I was able to work, she did emphasize that. So when I turned 16, a month after my 16th birthday, she got me a job working at one of the supermarket that she had worked at as well at that time, that was her second job. And her statement to me was that you are going to now start paying bills in this house, you're going to contribute financially because you're good. And what I didn't realize at that time, but what she was doing was instilling that sense of responsibility. And so she didn't tell him it to me at that time. But years later, she instilled that she was happy that she had made me go to work, because then the concept of me going out earning a living being able to support myself that was instilled early on   Michael Hingson ** 06:52 about what's your sister's? Did she do the same thing with him.   Dwayne Keys ** 06:57 She actually this, my youngest sister lover, started actually working with she was what 15 1415 years old, because, you know, I there was extra money, I was able to have spending money, do some stuff I was you know, I was able to drive my mother's car because I have my license. And so I think my younger sister saw that and wanted some of that for herself, you know? And so it was, well, if you want to have those things like Dwayne does, well, you should consider getting the job, you know, you have to shoot my mother's wedding, you're like, alright, well, Dwayne's works, that's why he's able to get those things and have those things. And so the idea was, well, I should get a full time get a part time job. And so she started working part time, during summers, and also in school, you know, you know, time restricted, but she was able to find her own part time job to work. And that has been the same thing. Also my younger sister Vivian, with, you know, getting employment where all I would say where we all when we want to accomplish a goal and we want to do something, we find a way to do it. We just do I, we may not have everything planned out or or organized at that moment. But we are very determined people when it comes to accomplishing our goals and getting when we want. And so that sense of determination is in all of us. It just shows in different ways at times.   Michael Hingson ** 08:20 Yeah. Well, I appreciate what you're saying. I can't save that growing up, we had such a low income, that we had electricity or anything turned off. But I know we weren't really rich by any standard. And we we had an income that allowed us to sometimes drive to visit relatives and things like that. But we we didn't have a lot of money. And when my parents finally passed, we certainly didn't have a lot of money. They didn't have a lot of money to, to give to my brother and me. But still, I think the same kind of ethic was in what they instilled in us, which was you got to work you got to learn to make your own way. And I think although they didn't say it, probably a little bit more for me than my brother. My parents were told when I was born four months later, it was discovered I was blind that I was gonna that I should be sent to a home for handicapped children because no blind child could ever grow up to a mountain anything and my parents said to the doctors, you're wrong. He can grow up to do whatever he wants. And they really made sure that I grew up with that kind of an attitude. And I certainly have absolutely no regrets with him doing that.   Dwayne Keys ** 09:35 Yeah, yeah, absolutely. It's amazing how parents have their plan. They don't always tell you or communicate their plans to you. It's only until even more recently, I'm like okay, now what she said made sense. Now what she did make sense. I didn't understand that at times. And at times. It was frustrating because it did feel like oh gosh, she's controlling Oh, got it. It's never good enough. But then in hindsight, I'm like, everything. She had had a purpose that it's now being fulfilled now, but I can see. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 10:08 the other side of that is she may not have had such a well spelled out plan that she really understood all those things. It was just kind of the ethic that was in her.   Dwayne Keys ** 10:19 Exact exactly. I agreed. So   Michael Hingson ** 10:21 you went off to school and you got a diploma and all that, then did you go to college and what did you do there? Yes,   Dwayne Keys ** 10:29 so um, I you know, after completing Brandywine high school, during my senior year of high school, I had been involved in some activities. One was deca, that was the marketing club. And I had participated in the DECA State Conference in Delaware in February, and had won second prize in one of these categories. And lo and behold, Johnson Wales University was there at the conference, and they were handing out brochures, they were, you know, talking about the university and how they offered their, you know, programs in terms of marketing, and then how they had progressed that specialize in advertising, promotion and Fashion and Retail. Sounds exciting? Well, I mean, look at it, you know, it's not gonna hurt to apply. I was debating about what I stay in Delaware, when I go apply to University of Delaware Delaware State, do I stay Do I go? What I found was appealing that Johnson was his curriculum was just, it was not the traditional school. And so it stood out to me that there was more focus, they called themselves back there America's career in a university. So it was appealing to me because it wasn't like, I'm just going to be stuck in where I've been hearing this, this nightmare about people in terms of just going to college, and I have no life, it was more of like, wait a minute, we're going to prepare for you to get that job that you that so desire. So that was very appealing to me in terms of the university. It was also appealing to get out of Delaware. It just it just, you know, I loved my hometown, but I felt that I was stifled there. And I didn't feel so that I could be myself in terms of my ambition, my attitude, the things I aspire to. I saw Wilmington, Delaware. I mean, my mother was saying it's like, it's kind of like a retirement state at times. And, you know, if you want to have an active social life, we will go to Philly Philadelphia, which is like half an hour, 45 minutes away. And it just, he was like, Okay, here's your chance, an opportunity to get away. So I did apply to the school. I did get accepted. what my mother did not know at the time, and I have since revealed I took a secret trip to Providence. High school time join, swim break. during spring break, my mother would took a trip down to Atlanta. And so she was during that year, you know, seeing visited Atlanta, my aunt, her sister had moved, got married and moved down there. And my mother was being told you got to come down to this city, you need to see this, you need to, you know, experience like down here. My mother was falling in love with that city. And during the week when my sister state when my grandparents, I had made a day trip by train to Providence, Rhode Island form, it's in Delaware. When I came here, the mall had just opened up, they were having WaterFire it just felt good. I liked the look and feel of Providence. I liked how it just sounds like yeah, I could be down with this spot. So I was comfortable with coming here, although I never told anyone about that. So most of my family had thought I was just coming to this place not knowing what it was I was coming into when in fact that I had an idea of what I was going to be experiencing. And, you know, I had worked for most of that summer in between graduating from high school and getting ready for college. And then in August, the beginning of August, right before I was due to come to Providence, my mother made a decision. She was moving out to Atlanta, so she and my sisters moved down there first I stayed with my grandparents temporarily. And then my grandparents took me to Providence Rhode Island School instead of dorms.   Michael Hingson ** 14:21 So what did mom say when you finally told her about your secret trip? Ah.   Dwayne Keys ** 14:28 She did not really get mad. I mean, now when she sees all the stuff that I've been doing, and I've been involved in, I think she accepts it that it was it was divine intervention. It was you know, it was only revealed like I said within the last year or so, so well not much that can be done. But I think she now accepts that. It was meant to be meant to be for me to be in Providence. Hey, mom taught   Michael Hingson ** 14:55 you some of the skills you Oh, gosh, yeah. So that's that's still is a great story, though, you, you did what you needed to do, which is certainly a good thing. So you went there. And I gather that you decided to study marketing.   Dwayne Keys ** 15:18 Yes, I mean, my associates was in retail because I was looking at the different areas, the different pathways that Johnson was offered. And so the one that caught my eye, which is the one that I was very familiar with was retail retail. And, you know, the initial idea was okay, you can learn about the aspects of running a retail store or retail management. And then at the end of your two years, when you complete your associate's degree, you can decide if you want to continue on with retail for your bachelor's, if you want to change it up. And so I, you know, just created that pathway. When I complete my associate's degree, I decided to move on to get into bachelor's degree in marketing. I was like, I loved I loved at least at that time, I loved retail, but I was like, I didn't want to limit myself to just retail as my education. And that's generally marketing, because then I can transition to any other aspects of marketing, FYI, so decided in the future.   Michael Hingson ** 16:19 And so you went off and you got your, your Bachelor's in marketing? Correct? Correct. Correct. So when did you graduate with that?   Dwayne Keys ** 16:27 I graduated my bachelor's degree in 2003, and 2001.   Michael Hingson ** 16:33 All right. So they offered an associate's degree at Johnson wells. Correct.   Dwayne Keys ** 16:37 They believe they still do again, it's been 20 something years. So I'm not sure what has changed the curriculum. But that was the pathway at the time. Well, cool.   Michael Hingson ** 16:45 So you, you did that? And did you go get any kind of advanced degree after the bachelors? Or did you just stop there? No, I   Dwayne Keys ** 16:55 had decided to continue on with Johnson law. So my graduate degree, at that time there was this debate, do you get your master's degree get an MBA male, I had took along with myself, and I was saying, I don't want to have to come back to school later on. I did not. I, like many other people thought, okay, college is done, I'm never gonna have to do a study. And again, obviously, I've seen that not to be the case, I can see you to study even in my career. But at that time, I was like, you know, what would make sense. And that was like, I rather get that degree now. Get it out of the way you'll have it and your educational levels, and they you will focus on your professional experience so that when the time comes, and that is a preferred or required education level, I would have already had that in my possession. I didn't have to worry about going back study and be in a position where I'm working full time ever in a career having kids with doing that. So my aspect was, you're still in study mode, you can still take the test easily, you still can do all those things. Go ahead and do it right now.   Michael Hingson ** 18:03 Yeah, I hear you. I decided, when I got my bachelor's to continue on as well. I just thought that it was probably better to to, to get most of the schooling done. The formal schooling at least done all at once. I never had the attitude that I wouldn't go off and continue to learn and do other things. But as far as formal college, I just did it all at once. And I enjoyed it and have no regrets about doing that. Yes, yeah. So when did you graduate with your bachelor's or your masters?   Dwayne Keys ** 18:38 I completed and graduated in 2005. Okay,   Michael Hingson ** 18:42 and then what did you go do?   Dwayne Keys ** 18:45 So, um, one of the things that's also amazing and interesting is that I had always been working full time. For most of my college life. I think the first year in my freshman year I lived on campus, I did work study, I may have taken a job here and there. But the second year, I lived off campus and I hadn't lived off campus ever since. And the second year, you know, my mother had a very honest conversation with me when she was very clear, I can only pay your rents have you been paying rent just for this this year, your sophomore year? And are you on your own? You're gonna have to find a way to pay for your bills. I did have some support from my grandparents. But living with my grandparents in between my school breaks was definitely a challenge. My grandparents were Pentecostal who would you describe is conservative, traditional in terms of their outlook on life? And, and then in terms of, you know, how you should be living in life. But then also, one of the things I I really had a challenge for, for them is the distance a country All. And so anyone who knows me, I'm one of which I definitely am for making my own decisions supporting you in what you want to do, regardless of how I may think about it. But I, I had came up against this experience that because I was being supported financially, that also meant that I needed to do what they said. And that was everything from if I even read a book, I remember reading this book on Islam. And it wasn't that I was thinking about converting, I just wanted to learn more about the religion, the culture, the people. And I can remember her seeing that book, looking at it with the stain, and wondering why we're looking at that. And I didn't need to bother myself with such things. And so it's that type of limitation that I have a problem with. And I was really determined that no one's not going to do that. But at that time, you know, you're 1819 years old, you're trying to figure out this word, they are your grandparents be as respectful as you can. But to kind of sum it up, there were mountain building conflicts that happen. And Christmas Break in 2000. I came down for a few days, and I was like, Okay, I need to get back to Providence, I need to get my life in order, I need to get the shop, I need to get things settled. And my grandfather wanted me to stay longer. And I originally thought we were going to take a trip down to Atlanta to see my mother and my sisters. That was the reason for me coming down. And when that didn't happen, I said, well, I need to get back up to Providence and get this all sorted out. And my grandfather being an upset about that. I had asked my grandmother for some money as I as she had promised. And she wrote a check to me, I want to say was like 250 $300. And he said to me that last Yvette Shepherd their chairs, because that's the last money you get in? Don't you ask for anything else ever again. And I said, Okay. And he took me to the bus station. And I got on my bus back to Providence, Rhode Island, and had to just really work on what were my next steps. So between January and March, I struggled to find a job. And there were days where I didn't eat, there were days where I was behind the bills, there were days I almost, if he was was threatened with eviction, but I eventually got a full time job working for one of the department stores Nordstrom. And that was the pathway on working full time. So really ever since before right around, I turned to age 20, I've always worked full time in my field. And so after doing these different jobs, working in retail working for the school, working in the PR office, I decided that I needed to do something that was different, I needed to do a sales job. And long Behold, I got my job as a financial advisor trainee with Morgan Stanley, and that began my pathway into financial services.   Michael Hingson ** 22:52 So were you doing Morgan Stanley while you were still in school?   Dwayne Keys ** 22:55 Yes, I had gotten that job in April. Yeah, April of 2004, at the end of my first year of grad school. And so in order to keep that job, you have to pass your series seven license. So my first three months, were just studying for that exam, which I, you know, had passed incredibly fast and was grateful, and then had to get additional licenses. But yes, while I was completing my grad school studies, I was doing those license studying for those licenses. And again, working full time and also taking classes in the evening. Series   Michael Hingson ** 23:30 seven is not a trivial thing to get a license for. Um,   Dwayne Keys ** 23:35 and, you know, I can say that now, but we get jobs on the line, because I was like,   Michael Hingson ** 23:39 Oh, sure. The incident was there.   Dwayne Keys ** 23:42 We want to do so. Now. I was like, Okay, I knew what I did with the practice exams and retaining information. Absolutely. But at the time, that was that was really a major mental hurdle. Oh,   Michael Hingson ** 23:55 yeah. So McCobb that's my point. It isn't. It isn't trivial to do. Yeah. So. So anyway, you did that? And when you got your masters and what did you do? Were you working for Morgan Stanley then or what? I   Dwayne Keys ** 24:10 was still working for Morgan Stanley. You gotta remember, this is 2004 2005. So the mindset was, even if you're 20 something years old, or, uh, you know, you, you need to meet sales goals, you need to bring in business, the culture wishes. Now, we will call toxic. You know, again, this is language and words you didn't know about it. But this is a very, at that time, very cutthroat industry. And one in which I just it's like, you know what, I'm not going to be able to thrive here. I'm not going to be to meet the sales goals. So I went to another advisory firm called strategic point that was local nearby. I was there as an advisory associate for about a year. And then I was able to get a job in a call center with Bank of America. Bank of America had just bought fleet. And they were converting all of fleet banks, departments into Bank of America and so fleet on Quicken, Riley and Quicken Riley was becoming Bank of America investment services. That's B, A and C. And so I had gotten that job as an investor. As a investment specialist. That's what they call this. And I was with them for almost five years. So I worked during the 2008, you know, the 2006, market crash and 2007 2008. Financial crisis and in that following Great Recession, which I say for Rhode Island, that recession actually never went away, which is still here in some shape or form. So   Michael Hingson ** 25:43 you say you were a BFA? What about a year? Oh,   Dwayne Keys ** 25:48 actually, almost five years, I suppose. Yeah, I will stay as a investment specialist. I had been moved to the sales gates, I was, you know, opening up accounts online, I did you know, what they call priority service associate or trading gate. So I did every type of securities trade for self employment accounts that you could think about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, options. I was on our Platinum worker services, which was the high net worth trading gates. And then I was promoted to senior vessel specialist or a team leader. So I was one step below being a team manager. And then I also had to get the Series Nine and the 10, which was the supervisors licenses. So I did do that for at least about, you know, I guess, almost five years, how, when Bank of America bought Merrill Lynch, there was the conversion of the companies and Merrill Lynch was coming in with its own, you know, ways of how he ran business. And I think by that time, I had gotten to a point where I was in the call center. And I was like, Yeah, I think it's time to get back into being client facing but not necessarily leaving the financial services world. But I also wasn't desiring becoming a financial advisor, again, like I had been before. And so I came across this role of what they call a licensed banker. So someone who works at a bank, who just happens to have the investment licenses that they can be a connection between the financial planners and financial consultants, but also still being a banker and retail branch and sovereign bank, we now know what a Santander but back then was still called Sovereign was hiring for this license banker role, and Pathak kid, and I had applied for that job and got accepted. And I was with them for almost like two and a half years, aspire to be an assistant manager. And Sunday air when they took over for sovereign, they took away the assistant manager role. So you just there was no way to build up to become an assistant manager or to become a branch manager, it was this, you need to meet your sales goals. Just keep doing what you're doing, but no type of development, no type of mentoring. And, again, that just wasn't gonna do it for me. So another local bank, Baker, I was hired from the system manager I interviewed applied for him interviewed for that role got accepted, and was an assistant manager for two of their branches and was there for almost three years. And then I got cursed back to coming back to South Sudan when they created the premier client manager group, which was a new department that was supposed to be a new way of remote banking, supporting clients remotely, instead of run a branch. And that department was in place for two years. And in May of 2017, they announced that they were going to close that department. And as they did, I had evaluated what should I do? What's my next move? I was applying to other different roles at the bank and other different financial institutions and wasn't getting anywhere back. And I just something said, why don't you check out some nonprofit jobs. I had always served on different nonprofit boards and was part of different, you know, community events when it came to economic justice. And I was like, let me check those out. And I came across the job posting in Brown University Square center for our financial coach. And I'm just learning more about this nonprofit organization called compass and their focus on families with low incomes and subsidized housing.   Michael Hingson ** 29:31 So what exactly does compass do? So   Dwayne Keys ** 29:34 compass was basically providing financial coaching to families who were in what's called the Family self sufficiency program, or FSS for short. And so that is a program that is a HUD program, which your housing provider either like public housing authorities or private multifamily owners can offer to residents To have a section eight voucher. And so compass provides program management to those programs while also the financial coaching in that time, compass was moving forward with one of their one of the fall partners, power preservation affordable housing on launching FSS in the name, you know, FSS at six different locations in New England. So this is the first time that FSS is being offered to multifamily properties. And it only been public housing authorities that could offer FSS and just for people to know what this program allows us that in the family self sufficiency program, participant is able to save rent increases, that happened as a result of increases in earned income. So when your income earned income goes up, your rent goes up. But what happens is the difference between what your rent was when you first started the program versus where it is when you have increases in your earned income, that rent increase is put away in a savings account for you about the housing authority. And there's a five year plus program that a participant can be enrolled in.   Michael Hingson ** 31:10 So what do you do in your day to day job than what compass? So you went to compass in 2017? And you're still there? Right? I am still there. Six years? Yeah.   Dwayne Keys ** 31:21 I mean, so you can say, well, the wall has evolved. Again, I joined as a financial coach, and I've been a senior financial coach. So as a financial coach, I was working with one on one with clients and my portfolio. Meeting with them, we have minimum required times that we're supposed to work with, but it's really supporting them in achieving their financial goals. And I described how I look at financial coaching is, we're in a car, the client is the driver, I'm in the passenger seat. I'm helping with navigation, I'm giving information on what could happen to where, where, what are you going to experience, if you turn left, if you go right, if you go backwards or forwards with the mindset that we're supporting the client, and they'll be making their own decision as to where they want to go on this financial journey. And the emphasis is on asset building my client, you know, people take to move from being asset poor, to asset secure and a public benefit system, you always hear about an emphasis on income and income is important. Yet we do know that having assets having savings for emergencies to be able to buy, you know jumping around the hall to be able to have an asset such as owning your own business, you know, owning your own home having money for retirement, just emergency savings, we know that this is key to families and to people's, you know, success. And so I had started off again, working directly with families one on one. And as a senior coach, I worked on other special projects and supporting compasses of mission. The last three years I was a coaching manager, I was leading a team for up to four financial coaches. We're making sure that we're providing that high quality financial coaching that I did as a coach, and which I was still doing and then more recently, I was promoted to director of programs for our multifamily partnerships. So I mail overseeing the team of coaching managers, program managers who are overseeing coaches and outreach specialists, Sunday making sure they're having effective program management, getting high quality financial coaching, and I'm working with six different multifamily partners on strategies for expanding FSS scaling the FSS program.   Michael Hingson ** 33:35 So how does compass make money? I mean, are they do they get it from funding? Do they get it from the investments that you help people acquire or what? Okay,   Dwayne Keys ** 33:45 so essentially, I combination is, obviously philanthropy. We do do a number of fundraising, but you know, foundations definitely do help. We do get paid for running these programs for the housing partner. So that's the additional source of income as well. Really funded program. So the federal funding it Yes, it is. So, more recently, it used to be the only public housing authorities could get HUD funding to fund these positions to fund the work of FSS now, multifamily owners can do so depending upon if you receive an award from HUD so there is some federal funding involved you also make it the housing provider that we work with this their own sources of funding that they used to pay compass with and then I'll put the bulk of our money that we do is philanthropic   Michael Hingson ** 34:35 Okay. It seems to me and I have to go look I know we've had a somebody else from campus elsewhere on unstoppable mindset, but it's been a long time so I'm gonna have to go back and look, but I know it was it was fascinating to hear what what compass did and and what all you guys are doing. So for you, though, having heard about your upbringing, and so on, and heard about how your life has evolved over time? What would you say your passion and areas of focus in your life is or are? So   Dwayne Keys ** 35:12 the role is where I'm really fulfilling is how do we help families rise up out of poverty, you know how to set one a panel discussion a few weeks ago, which was the witness that world with no poverty where people are not having to rely on this mindset of just pull yourself up from your bootstraps. But wait a minute, we're really giving people the financial education that they need. And I say that financial education, not financial literacy, because I can't stand someone thinking, you know, that we're the financial literacy, people are illiterate, they just may not have the education that you have in terms of this area of personal finance. But also having the assets, the cash, the capital to do what it is that you need to do, is very significant. I appreciate what I've seen some of my client experiences. In the last, particularly at the beginning of the pandemic, like that first year of the pandemic, I had two clients who were able to buy that house. So even in the issue of this, the scary situation of COVID have this uncertainty with the economics of what's happening with our country and all that was going on, I still have clients who are able to persevere who are able to move forward and achieve their goals of homeownership, or, you know, other goals, or just having the money to be able to survive and emergency. And it was also a unique time, because many some of my clients had to then pivot when they had lost their jobs temporarily. They use that time to think about should I go back to school? Should I you know, focus on being self employed? What does that look like in terms of starting my own business? So it definitely opened up opportunities for people to be creative, how do we still thrive and be able to accomplish our next steps in our goals, in spite of all the uncertainty that we're still facing that we still face today? But for me, too, as I said, it's who better to help you support you in this and navigating through these financial systems and the experiences that someone who grew up with it and also experienced it themselves? You know, I kind of joke, you know, joke here and there. But I was like, Who better to help people to death collection that someone who had a debt collection who had to endure that experience and go through it? Yeah,   Michael Hingson ** 37:25 you are very fortunate that you had a mother who helped you through it by requiring you to do the things that you did. And so and you also have obviously had to discover some things on your own as well. But you did that, which gives you the skills now to do what you're doing, which is teaching others? Yes,   Dwayne Keys ** 37:47 yes, absolutely. Absolutely.   Michael Hingson ** 37:51 Go ahead. Yep. So all right, go ahead. Go ahead. I   Dwayne Keys ** 37:55 was gonna say, you know, even at Compass, you know, there's been a lot more that I've had to learn, because even though that's what we do, you know, my current role, I've had to learn project management, program management B, what does it mean to run a nonprofit? You know, so there's been quite a number, quite an education I've continued to receive even there in terms of that arena, while at the same time, you know, following up with just making sure that we're providing the high quality financial coaching.   Michael Hingson ** 38:22 So you, you work with people who are probably coming to you with a lot of fear and uncertainty in their lives, right? Correct. Correct? How do you help them overcome fear? What do you do to help them overcome fear and not be so daunted if you will, or blinded by having all this fear in their lives? Because of all the things that have happened to them? Yeah,   Dwayne Keys ** 38:47 I mean, one of the the initial steps with all of our training is you have to build trust with the clients. And it's very hard, because you have to remember, they've experienced systems and organizations and peoples in the past, who may not have treated them well, or they may have not had a best experience. So really, establishing building that trust is key. The next step is understanding their journey, their story, what they what have they done, and also celebrating successes that they've achieved on their own, because we never want to disconnect or distort this, dismiss what someone has achieved. But it's also then having to get back to what is it that you want to accomplish, and when you want to do and, again, we're going to go at your pace. So I've had some clients that they come in, I know they want to buy their house, they know what they need to do they know what they need to work on. Great. We're gonna go with you on that. And then I've had some clients who will say, You know what, I actually don't know what I want to do. I want to start I further say, you know, I want to start my own business. I don't know what that is, okay, well, then we're going to go on this pathway, and then on at this pace, so that we can focus on that. And again, we're going to be flexible and adaptable. So if right now, there's a goal that you'd be focusing on but then something that's happened to you you got to prioritize The other thing that we prioritize that other thing I will say is that this is your journey, this is your financial coach. And this is not my journey, you know, my appointment, and I'm gonna tell you what you need to do, you set the tone of where we're going to focus on. And I'm here to make sure you have the information, the resources, and the support that you that you need to receive in this program. And I think one of the main key things I have been able to do is help people recognize their own successes, people may be just doing things because they needed to do it. Or they may experience a situation where they think it's a failure, when actuality is success, and what are the things which makes him so minor, but I think it's majors, clients work on building up an emergency fund, then they put away their savings, they reach that goal, and then next, an emergency happens. And then they have to use that money. And they're saying, I'm so depressed, because yeah, this happened with the car, this happened with this thing. And I had to use it. And I'm like, great, because that's what an emergency fund is for. That was exactly, so think about it. By using having that money, you didn't have to worry about using credit cards using credit using any type of predatory lending, you didn't have to borrow, you didn't have to do any of the things that would have gave you additional stress, you had the money right there. That's excellent. That's the goal that was accomplished, you accomplished your goal. So just thinking about those things about stuff, which people may feel as though that's not really a major accomplishment. And actually is when you think about how you're trying to achieve financial security and success in your life,   Michael Hingson ** 41:32 trying to bring some perspective back to people because they, they really don't necessarily see what really happened. I mean, you, you guided them, they did stuff. But until something happens that causes them, for example, to use that emergency fund. And then you have to remind them of what that means, then and only then do they really internalize what happened. Yeah, if you had to really give us one story, that was just a great success story, what would it be?   Dwayne Keys ** 42:04 One story was one of my clients who ended up she had saved I'm gonna say up to $30,000 in the program. But even up to that moment where she was completing the program, she still had doubts about if she was going to get that money. And we were she, she had been, you know, increasing our income had been saving. But her budget was becoming very challenged with affording both the rent increase, and the other bills because she also had a car payment. And she had gotten this car loan in order to be able to get to work. But it was causing this this great challenge in her budget. And so we just asked the question, it was like, you know, you're struggling with this payment, you're struggling with being able to meet other obligations, when it makes sense to take some of that money that you've already saved, pay off that car loan. And then by doing that, that helps you get, you know, you'd be able to meet all the obligations and get budget you're able to save on your own, you won't have to worry about that. That item being on your credit, you know, being an obligation, the more you own it outright, you can even maybe adjust your insurance rates, you have to worry about full coverage and save some money that way. What about that, and she was like, You know what, let's do that. And we have put the request in the check arrived two weeks later. And even when she's coming there, she's looking with the tears and running up her eyes because she's like, this is really she's I can't believe this is really happening. You know, because you hear about it, you talk about it, you say this is going to happen for her to actually see that that's happening, we're going to do that right now. And that's why it wasn't just it was one less thing she had to worry about. It was like, think about all the stuff she's not going to be able to do now that that goal, you know, being able to pay down that debt, pay off that debt entirely, not have to worry about that and have a car and her own right that she owns was the phenomenal. So just I always talk about like, even to that moment to see that, oh, this is this is really I'm really going to accomplish this goal, this is really going to happen, I'm really going to be able to say that I did this, that memory still stays in my mind, just but the reaction of you know, the opposite that very moment of the cheque being placed in your hand there was this disbelief that this is really a true real true program to actually exist and helps people. Yeah.   Michael Hingson ** 44:26 And they wouldn't have had access to those resources in any other way if you weren't there to advise them.   Dwayne Keys ** 44:32 Correct. Exactly. Exactly.   Michael Hingson ** 44:36 Well, you've been doing this now for quite a while. What do you see yourself doing in five years?   Dwayne Keys ** 44:43 So that you're singing about you know, as we've been talking about, what is the next pathway and I have put that out there? So I do see myself as an executive at Compass we have different levels. You have all staff obviously individual contributor manager level director level Which I'm at now. And I just says, I can see myself as an executive, you know, and I look at my own pathway. I'm like, you know, things could change. Compass has expanded. When I first started, the organization was 25 people. We're now at above 70. So you know, this growth money in the company, where I also see myself is that, as I said to you, you know, I've always done this volunteer work in terms of advocacy, special events, work, doing things with different nonprofits, and I've come to be a specialist when it came to like community engagement strategies when it comes to people of color, particularly in this part of Providence, just being a special advisor, facilitating meetings. And what I've done is I've been able to wrap up all those of the special projects and what I've done in terms of workshops and teaching, and things outside of campus, and to my own sole proprietorship, Deacy solution, which I've had in place since 2015. But really, this past year was really one in which I've done a number of projects. So just being like a business coach and a workshop instructor to participants who are looking to design, you know, set up their own design business and supporting them in terms of business developments, and how did you set up a business bank account and have you set up your own business to be able to, you know, launch as a business entity. That's been fulfilling, but a number of other projects have been doing. And then obviously, I aspire to hold elected office, I did run for state rep in 2018. And I will be pursuing running for our local city council races in 2026.   Michael Hingson ** 46:45 Oh, not till 2026. Every four   Dwayne Keys ** 46:49 years. So my counsel first and just read in one her third, third term in 2022. But she's term limited, the more currently I've been supporting her ever since she first ran in 2014. Definitely have been a, you know, great admirer of the work that she's done with our area. And in a way I want to be able to continue which he had started in our terms. So you know, it's been something we're we've been openly discussing, but I've been very firm to it. Yes, I am running in 2026. I do have my campaign account open, I do have things are in place. And as we get closer to that date, more TOCOM?   Michael Hingson ** 47:29 Well, I would only say the other side of that is that at least her term limits are causing her not to be able to run, then you won't be able to run against her, which is a good thing.   Dwayne Keys ** 47:38 Correct. You know,   Michael Hingson ** 47:41 good to have friends, you know? Yeah,   Dwayne Keys ** 47:43 yeah. I mean, people have asked that question, why don't you run? And I said, No, no, no, I made it very clear that I do support our incumbent, I definitely do admire her work and what she's done. And so no, I was not going to challenge her. But I said the moment she said that she was done, I'm running.   Michael Hingson ** 47:58 Well, that's fair. In a lot of ways. So what what issues are there in your surrounding community? And I guess I would say overall, for all of us, that we need to be a little bit more aware of things that you want listeners to know about that they ought to deal with.   Dwayne Keys ** 48:17 Yeah, I mean, this is also reflecting that up, you know, the last seven and a half years, I was the chairperson of the South Providence neighborhood association. So that was a nonprofit that was launched in 2015, when, you know, the council person had just gotten office. And there was the desire for us to have a group a body a place to come, where we can get information and talk as a community neighbors, you know, neighbors, what was going on the neighborhood, what's impacting us, and how do we move forward? In this experience, I will say there's a number of things that are going on. One has to deal with zoning and urban planning issues. You know, with Providence, we have huge issues when it comes to housing design. We have a situation where I like it, you know, I have to say this, I use just words. You still have segregation and redlining practices embedded in how we have housing development housing projects that are being done. We definitely have this issue of housing affordability, which is across the nation, but you know, it here in Providence, we have displacement that's happening where a lot of residents, you know, low to moderate income, primarily, black and brown residents have had to move out or move elsewhere. And because they haven't been able to afford the high cost of prices, you know, they're not able to the wages aren't keeping up with the prices of inflation and the housing costs of class in Providence, unlike some other cities, where they require housing developments to include units include price points for low to moderate income Up. in Providence, we're okay with people who want high luxury housing development just behind luxury development, know what the subsidies. So it's also creating these divisions in my view where we're not. We're not providing opportunity for families, individuals, those from different walks of life to be living in all parts of Providence, it's almost as if, oh, this price point, you only have this type of housing and this one part of the city or that part of the city, and it's perpetuating that. Another thing has to also deal with the issue of taxation, you know, Providence, we are a college town, but literally half of our properties or either owned by colleges and universities or by governments, because we are the capital city, or we're an island. So we've definitely had financial issues, when it comes to our pensions. When it comes to our viability, there was this huge major issue between what we call the pilot program payment and low taxes with the universities, colleges, universities, many residents and think that the universities are paying more than they should. And we do have a big hospital community in my part of the neighborhood in which there's been debates about that community not paying their share, and also fears that that hospital community will take more land in the neighborhood for their, their buildings, their parking lots. So there's a history of how do urban renewal eminent domain homes were take, you know, were bought, and people had to move out of the neighborhood for the expansion of the hospital community. And you have many residents will still talk about that today,   Michael Hingson ** 51:37 without any kinds of issues that you might be seeing or encountering regarding persons with disabilities, which is, you know, usually a large minority that people don't talk about.   Dwayne Keys ** 51:49 So one of the things that has already come up in terms of the city where I already said, I'm like, we are not ABA compliant, when it comes to our sidewalks, when it comes to people with wheelchairs, a major issue that happens and this is where we're talking about, you talk, think about something as simple as shoveling the sidewalks during the wintertime. And what I've seen, you've had people but in particularly those people who have mobility issues having to walk in the street, because that person or that company or organization did not shovel the sidewalk. So we have a public safety issue, which is every one that I find with people with disability disabilities, for those who have a mobility issue, that is a major crisis that is going on. And then the main thing also with Rhode Island, and particularly Providence, we have old housing stock. So there's a number of people who may again, because of mobility issues, they can't get to the third, second or third floor. So they are limited, but housing. So we have a number of people and actually one of my good friends, colleagues Titi Podesta, and she was like She's someone who has mobility issues, she was speaking about this, you know, there's housing, there's units, there's places that she can't go, because it's not accessible. So that is one thing that I definitely see here that you don't think about until it's time to have the activity or until it's time to do something and that person candidate get in and she made a good point. She was like, I bet you the majority of the folks if I was if you were to have an event or something that your house will not be able to come to your house? And I'm like, no, because I'm on the third floor, no elevator, no other way for you to get off to the third gift to me.   Michael Hingson ** 53:25 So yeah. How do you deal with that?   Dwayne Keys ** 53:27 So I mean, one of the things we have to do is we talk about infrastructure, we have to invest and we upgrade or design the housing a way that is accessible for people to be able to get into the dwellings. And then you also have to deal with this practice of preservation and look and feel and care, because we are an old historic New England town. Absolutely. And we to have nice gorgeous Victorian houses and everything else. And at the same time, we have this housing crisis, people need to use that space. How do you balance look and feel and character and uniqueness with this need of mobility of access?   Michael Hingson ** 54:12 Well, to go another direction, though, which in some senses ought to be a whole lot easier to address. So what about things like? Are the city websites accessible? What are you What is the city doing to make information readily available? website accessibility across the board and so on? Michael,   Dwayne Keys ** 54:29 the website accessibility, it's not even accessible to those who can say so we have a we have a whole issue,   Michael Hingson ** 54:37 good political answer, no information really works.   Dwayne Keys ** 54:42 So you have people who struggle to just get information in general from the city at times. And so we're, you know, so you bring up a very good point. It's not even at the forefront, not because it's not, it's not important. It's more of like we're just struggling to get the basics of everyone just know what's going on. Er yet.   Michael Hingson ** 55:01 One of the things that I talk about from time to time in speeches that I give as well, as I've mentioned a few times on this podcast is, when people talk about diversity, they never really talk about disabilities, because we're not part of the conversation, we're not part of the discussion. And that's what really needs to change until people recognize that diversity. If it's going to truly be diversity needs to include everyone, then that's not going to change. And so I oftentimes have discussions with people about inclusion as opposed to diversity because they say, Well, we're, we're working on being inclusive, but you're not inclusive, well, but we're partially inclusive, Nope, doesn't work. You either are inclusive, or you're not. And if you're inclusive, it's a mindset. And if you are inclusive, then you're going to be dealing with disabilities and so on. It's unfortunate that we're not there yet. As I said, we don't really make disabilities part of the conversation. But I know what you're saying about housing and so on, you know, my, my wife used to watch when she was alive, a lot of the shows on house building and all the people who come and renovate homes and all that sort of stuff, they would not invariably do anything, to think far enough ahead that if somebody had a house, and they were renovating it, that they might make it accessible for the next person who might buy that house. And so none of the people that really deal with all the house stuff on TV, deal with it, either. The only time it ever comes up is if you happen to have somebody in a wheelchair or whatever it is, it is unfortunate, we're not part of the conversation. Yeah,   Dwayne Keys ** 56:42 and I think that goes into this other piece, too, is equity when it comes to design and decision making. So when we're making the decision of what gets done, or how it gets done, or do we have everybody who needs to be included, not just in that conversation, but agreeing that this is the way that this is going to go. And that is very, that is lacking in many particular cases, I see it both not just in terms of like accessibility, but even with those who have a disability, who are also receiving public benefits, SSDI or SSI. In some cases, I have seen that where there's limitations when it's time to transition for them being able to go back to work and be able to earn a living, you see that limitation there in terms of you're limited to how many hours that notching it, how many hours how much you can earn in that particular time period. Yeah, if you can lose this benefit, you lose that benefit. And so that was one of the things to your point, when I first came to Compass, we had always up to that point at work with more public housing authority clients, who see almost all of them very rare that you came across someone who had a disability who was receiving one of those benefits. And when I came into, you know, compass, I encountered a number of people who enrolled, who had SSI SSDI benefits, particular SSI, who wanted to go back to work, but he had all these limitations and how he could save how they can earn. And lo and behold, even at Compass, I'm like, what do we do, and we had nothing in place. So I had to use my first two years are really just like researching developing content and information for us to put in place to support those clients. So even to your point, it wasn't intentional. But that never been considered a compass until it presented itself.   Michael Hingson ** 58:33 We still do not recognize it. Inclusion should be part of the cost of doing business and part of the cost of life, which is really the issue. But yeah, you're right, there are so many limitations on people who are receiving benefits, like SSI and SSDI. There's only so much that can be done. And Congress isn't really willing to change that. So it is unfortunate that it did it continues to happen. Yeah,   Dwayne Keys ** 59:01 I mean, even one of the blessings was the ABLE account, which was That was great. But you have to be aced what your disability had to have occurred on or before get 26 birth that right? I'm like, okay, so what happens if I'm 30 something years old? And it's something Oh, I can't use that. So still is excluding a segment of population who could benefit from that program? So   Michael Hingson ** 59:23 there's a lot of that, oh, it's an very unfortunate situation. And we're not. We're not anywhere near dealing with any of that yet. You also have your own little enterprise outside of campus, right?   Dwayne Keys ** 59:33 Yeah. So the key solution that you know, as I said, I've been doing a number of practical projects. I don't have any like formal business model. But what I in the past I've been asked to facilitate a meeting or lead a workshop or do this one on one, you know, business coaching. So there's a number of areas that I have outside of, of compass that I've worked on, like I said a lot of stuff in terms of just my expertise with planning A zoning committee engagement just thinks, you know, supporting Black and Brown business owners in terms of moving forward. And it was like, Well, why don't you start, you know, maybe doing that as a business. So long Behold, this past year, like I said, there's always every once in awhile, I will have a project where I was asked to do something, pieces, you know, you know, you know, some money, but nothing significant. This year, I had been sign up for a number of activities, as I said, like being a workshop, instructor, business coach, doing consistent, you know, activities, and I was like, Oh, this is gonna be different. And so I said, it's hypothetical, this is this is not going to be something I should file like, I should not, I should treat this as a business income that it is. And I had had the key solution already set up. And I was like, Okay, why don't you make this a regular thing? Why don't you put this out there that you do these activities at a price. And so that has been a whirlwind. But I've completed a catalyst Fellowship Program, which is a paid fellowship program to learn how to be a nonprofit consultant. There has been other particular things that I've done in terms of CES, like, there's one pro

Peter joins Drew as a cohost this week as they answer questions regarding RMD's, paying off a mortgage with an IRA, SSDI, beneficiaries, and more! Download & enjoy! 

How do Social Security benefits and VA Disability Benefits impact each other? In this video, we discuss VA disability and Social Security benefits, how they work together, and whether any offsets apply. There are two different types of Social Security disability benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). One benefit includes limits whereas the other does not. Tune in to learn more! Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/CCKYTL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/CCKFBL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/CCKINL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/CCKTL

Will building a new home delay Janelle's early retirement? Can Mike and his wife retire early at ages 50 and 55, and how much should they convert to Roth? Maria and her partner keep their finances separate - can Maria cover her own expenses in early retirement? That's today on Your Money, Your Wealth® podcast 482 with Joe Anderson, CFP® and Big Al Clopine, CPA. Plus, the fellas explain the difference between FDIC insurance and SIPC insurance for Edward, who wonders if he should spread his assets between banks for protection. Fajita Willy needs a spitball on his MYGA retirement strategy, that is, multi-year guaranteed annuities. Nancy wants to know if mandatory seismic retrofit expenses are tax-deductible. And how should Lee manage Roth contributions and IRMAA now that his Social Security disability has finally been approved and he's received 5 years of back pay? Free financial resources and transcript: https://bit.ly/ymyw-482 Retirement Readiness Guide - free download EASIretirement.com - free retirement calculator Financial Planning at Every Age: Retirement Planning for Millennials, Gen-X, and Baby Boomers - YMYW TV Ask Joe & Big Al On Air for your Retirement Spitball Analysis Schedule a free financial assessment Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Will Building a New Home Delay My Early Retirement? (Janelle, CO - voice) 07:35 - Should I Spread Assets Between Banks for FDIC Insurance? (Edward, IL) 13:16 - Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) Retirement Spitball (Fajita Willy, TX) 21:09 - Is the Mandatory Seismic Retrofit Expense Tax-Deductible? (Nancy, Tarzana, CA) 22:47 - My SSDI Was Approved and I've Received 5 Years of Back Pay. How to Manage Roth IRA Contributions and Medicare IRMAA? (Lee, Jacksonville, FL) 28:33 - Can We Retire Early Next Year at Ages 55 and 50? How Much Should We Convert to Roth? (Mike, NY) 34:57 - My Partner and I Maintain Separate Finances. Can I Cover My Own Expenses in Early Retirement? (Maria, Chicago suburbs, IL) 42:06 - The Derails

We are pivoting from our normal education-centric topics today to take a broader view of the financial side of raising a child with a disability. We want to make sure that families, and people working with these families, have all the resources and tools for a well-rounded toolkit for supporting their kids. We welcome James Lange to the podcast to share his practical insights and expertise.James Lange is a CPA, a state attorney in Pennsylvania, and the author of nine best-selling financial books. He is a nationally recognized IRA, 401(k), and retirement plan distribution expert. As a result of his daughter's disability, James developed a passion for helping parents who need to provide sufficient care for a disabled child even beyond their own lifetime. He explains how he and his wife are providing for their daughter's future and what parents of a disabled child should do right now to ensure the financial future of their child. Show Highlights:James' plan to provide for his daughter for the rest of her lifeJames' mission to help parents of children with disabilities optimize their financial assetsThree steps to take right now for your disabled child: Get your child qualified for government benefits in the SSI or SSDI. (James explains the #1 mistake most parents make in applying for these benefits.)Get your estate planning done appropriately with the proper trust or conservatorship option. (Don't rely on “Joe Schmo Attorney” for this!)Get the Roth IRA conversion strategy done right by a financial professional. (The difference in doing this correctly and incorrectly can amount to a huge difference in available funds for your child.) Best resources for parents to use in their education and planning:Get James' FREE book, Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability. Click here!Sign up for Expert Advice for Parents of Children with Disabilities: A Virtual Summit, June 18-20, 2024. Click here for more information about this FREE event!Links/Resources:Connect with James Lange: Disabled Child Planning, Pay Taxes Later, and LInkedInContact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org Thank you for listening! Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:Facebook

The importance of creating a financial plan, in which care for a loved one is paramount, is critical for many investors. In some cases, these plans include creating a Special Needs Trust ("SNT") as well as maximizing government assistance from Social Security and Medicaid. On this episode we dive deep into this important topic with Ashley Velategui, a Director in Bernstein's Wealth Strategies Group. We explain how Special Needs Trusts work, their special features, and how to most effectively create them. Ashley demystifies the complexity behind many of the government assistance programs and highlights strategies to maximize benefits. We also explain ABLE Accounts and how they can be a part of the overall plan. With any questions or comments, or to discuss your own financial situation, I can be reached at marc.penziner@bernstein.com or 212-969-6655.The information presented and opinions expressed are solely the views of the podcast host commentator and their guest speaker(s).  AllianceBernstein L.P. or its affiliates makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy of any data. There is no guarantee that any projection, forecast or opinion in this material will be realized. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The views expressed here may change at any time after the date of this podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AllianceBernstein or its affiliates.

Social Security (SS), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI) are three federal benefit programs that can provide income to Americans who aren't able to work. SS, SSI, and SDI are all are managed by the Social Security Administration.Each of these programs, however, have different purposes and eligibility requirements. However, when it comes to taxes and financial aid, it can be confusing to understand how each work. For example, do you need to include SSDI benefits received on the FAFSA?But how exactly do these programs work? And how do they play into your tax bill? In this article, we'll look at each one and their impact on your paycheck, taxes, and FAFSA.

Treatment for schizophrenia is a tough journey for people with the illness but also for caregivers and loved ones. Due to cognitive symptoms, hallucinations, and delusions, a person with schizophrenia may not be able to make decisions on treatment or take care of themselves. When should caregivers step in to legally take control over a person with schizophrenia? What are the types of involuntary treatment? What are the other options available to people with schizophrenia and caregivers? Host Rachel Star Withers, a person with schizophrenia, and co-host Gabe Howard discuss involuntary treatment options in schizophrenia and the moral issues around forcing treatment on a person.  Guest Nicole Drapeau Gillen joins the discussion. Nicole was an IT executive and chief marketing officer turned caregiver and the author of “Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers.” Nicole recognized that caregivers like herself often find themselves thrust into this challenging, complex, and stressful situation with little guidance on how to help a loved one with a serious mental illness. In this episode, Rachel speaks about psychiatric advance directives. You can find more information at the National Resource Center on Psychiatric Advance Directives at www.NRC-PAD.org. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. Our guest, Nicole Drapeau Gillen, is a caregiver and the author of “Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers.” Nicole began her journey as a caregiver in this world of schizophrenia in 2020 when her daughter became sick. After thrashing about for a few years, finding herself frustrated and desperate for information, she wrote the book on caregiving for someone with a serious mental illness. In her book, “Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers,” Nicole addresses a myriad of issues caregivers face, including: • From the Beginning of the Journey: Treatment — medication primer, treatment primer, etc.; hospitals, case managers, and more; and doctors (working with, talking to, finding) • Ongoing: Communication, definitions, family and friends; support groups — for yourself and your loved one; and creating your ongoing paper trail • Could Happen Anytime: Housing/homelessness; navigating jail and police; and crisis — suicidal ideation, arrests, run away, etc. • Getting The Right Support Setup: Legal — advanced directives; legal — power of attorney, conservatorship, guardianship; and financial — SSI, SSDI, other government services • Long-term issues: Budgeting — estate planning, trusts and letter of intent; and transition to self support for your loved one • And so much more! As a caregiver, our journey is ever-evolving and fluid. No sooner do we get our loved one on a good path, then things take another twist and turn. This book aims to give you the fundamentals on how to help your loved one no matter where they are on their road to recovery. With clear steps and compassionate insights, you'll find a lifeline in your caregiving journey. https://schizophrenia-caregiver.com/ Schizophrenia & Related Disorders: A Handbook for Caregivers Rachel Star Withers creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.comm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are the key differences between traditional estate planning and elder law planning, and why is it important to consider elder law planning at a younger age? In this episode of Financially Ever After, host Stacy Francis delves into the intricate world of special needs planning and elder law with guest Britt Berner. Together, they navigate the complexities of legal and financial considerations for people with disabilities and those facing terminal illnesses. Planning for a disabled child's future requires careful consideration of government benefits and asset protection strategies. Understanding the nuances of Medicaid, SSI, and SSDI is crucial in ensuring the child's financial security and well-being. Spousal refusal and other legal strategies can help protect assets and qualify for Medicaid in the face of terminal illness or disability. Knowing the options available and seeking personalized advice from an elder law attorney can make a significant difference in navigating these challenging circumstances. Establishing a Supplemental Needs Trust can safeguard assets for a disabled child without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits. By setting up this trust, parents can ensure that their child's financial future is secure and that they continue to receive the necessary support and care. Personalized advice from an elder law attorney is essential in creating a comprehensive plan for long-term care and asset protection. By consulting with a legal expert specializing in elder law, individuals can develop a tailored strategy that addresses their specific needs and goals, providing peace of mind for the future. Early engagement in elder law planning, including powers of attorney and healthcare proxies, can provide peace of mind and security for the future. By proactively addressing legal and financial matters, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected and their affairs are managed according to their preferences and values. Resources Britt Burner on LinkedIn Email: bburner@burnerlaw.com Burner Prudenti Law on Website | Facebook | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys  Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | X(Twitter) Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com

In 2023, 148 members of GSK's Legal and Compliance Department global pro bono program served 160 clients,providing over 1200 hours of service. Since 2015, GSK has partnered with Homeless Advocacy Project (HAP), an organization that provides free legal services to individuals and families who experience or face homelessness in Philadelphia. GSK lawyers and legal professionals assist with securing birth certificates for clients which addresses homelessness and enables them to apply for housing. GSK also participates in HAP's SOAR (SSI, Outreach, Access, and Recovery) project to obtain expedited rulings on Supplemental Security Income and SSDI cases to help provide income to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. We spoke with GSK Assistant General Counsel, Andy Boczkowski, for this special edition of the Pro Bono Happy Hour Podcast. Listen to how GSK got involved with HAP.

When people living with MS find themselves unable to continue working due to disability, they turn to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). And when they do, many are surprised to find the long, winding, sometimes confusing road that lies ahead.  This week, disability law expert Jamie Hall joins me to demystify the process of applying for SSDI benefits. Jamie specializes in social security and long-term disability law. And he, literally, wrote the book for the National MS Society on applying for SSDI benefits. We'll also tell you about the amazing work this year's recipient of the Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research is involved in. We're reporting on the progress that scientists are making in penetrating the blood brain barrier (And we'll remind you about why that makes a real difference for everyone living with MS!) We're sharing the details about KYV-101, the experimental CAR-T cell therapy that's been given a Fast Track designation by the FDA. We'll tell you about study results that show people with a university education are more likely to be on a disease-modifying therapy. And we're sharing study results that identify the inequity in geographic proximity to MS care in the United States. We have a lot to talk about! Are you ready for RealTalk MS??! This Week: How to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits  :22 This year's recipient of the Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS research  1:58 Real progress reported in efforts to penetrate the blood brain barrier  7:17 FDA gives Fast-Track designation to CAR-T cell therapy for MS  10:03 STUDY: Having a university education makes it more likely that someone with MS will be on a DMT  13:04 STUDY: Geographic proximity to MS care in the U.S. is far from equal   15:04 Disability law expert Jamie Hall discusses how to apply for SSDI benefits   19:29 Share this episode  38:01 Have you downloaded the free RealTalk MS app?  38:21 SHARE THIS EPISODE OF REALTALK MS Just copy this link & paste it into your text or email: https://realtalkms.com/336 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 in the RealTalk MS app or at www.RealTalkMS.com Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits: A Guidebook for People with MS and their Healthcare Providers https://nationalmssociety.org/NationalMSSociety/media/MSNationalFiles/Brochures/Guidebook-Social-Security-Disability-for-People-with-MS.pdf Predictive High-Throughput Platform for Dual Screening of mRNA Lipid Nanoparticle Blood Brain Barrier Transfection and Crossing https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c03509 STUDY: University Education Facilitates Uptake of Disease-Modifying Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis: A Community-Based Study Using the UK MS Register https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13524585231221411 STUDY: Geographic Proximity in Access to Neurologists and Multiple Sclerosis Care in the United States https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000207916 Join the RealTalk MS Facebook Group https://facebook.com/groups/realtalkms Download the RealTalk MS App for iOS Devices https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/realtalk-ms/id1436917200 Download the RealTalk MS App for Android Deviceshttps://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.realtalk Give RealTalk MS a rating and review http://www.realtalkms.com/review Follow RealTalk MS on Twitter, @RealTalkMS_jon, and subscribe to our newsletter at our website, RealTalkMS.com. RealTalk MS Episode 336 Guest: Jamie Hall, Esq. Privacy Policy

In this episode, Professor Tiffany Lee is interviewed about service dogs and disability rights and accommodations. They discuss the Americans with Disabilities Act, the definition of disability, and disability benefits. They also explore reasonable accommodations in the workplace and education settings, as well as the challenges and advocacy involved. The conversation covers topics such as disclosing disabilities to employers and universities, getting a service dog, dealing with unresponsive disability lawyers, appealing denied disability benefits, and correcting inaccuracies in medical records. The episode provides valuable insights and guidance for individuals with disabilities navigating legal and practical aspects of their rights and accommodations. Professor Lee wanted to clarify the following points from the discussion of Social Security disability. SSI places limits on assets ($2000 for an individual) and income. SSDI does not have an asset limit but requires the recipient not be able to engage in “substantial gainful activity,” which generally acts as an income limit. There is a “Ticket to Work” program called “Choose Work” available that provides some options similar to those in the earlier “Ticket to Work” program mentioned in this episode.YOUR host, as always, is Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD.Key points discussed: **Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):** The conversation explores the ADA, a crucial piece of legislation that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and mandates reasonable accommodations.**Disability Benefits:** The episode delves into disability benefits, including the process of applying, appealing denied benefits, and addressing inaccuracies in medical records.**Workplace and Education Accommodations:** Reasonable accommodations in both workplace and education settings are explored, shedding light on the challenges and advocacy involved.**Disclosure to Employers and Universities:** Professor Tiffany Lee provides insights into the considerations and potential challenges of disclosing disabilities to employers and universities.**Service Dogs:** The episode discusses obtaining a service dog and the associated considerations.**Dealing with Disability Lawyers:** Challenges related to unresponsive disability lawyers are addressed, offering guidance on how to navigate such situations.**Financial Impact of Disability:** The limitations and financial impact of applying for disability, including asset limits and restrictions on work and income, are discussed.**Flaws in the Disability System:** Issues within the disability system, such as the poverty threshold and its impact on marriage, are highlighted.**Emergency Response Accessibility:** Making disaster and emergency response accessible to people with disabilities is discussed.Overall, the episode provides an exploration of the legal, practical, and personal aspects of disability rights and accommodations, offering valuable insights and guidance for individuals with disabilities.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview01:14 Americans with Disabilities Act03:28 Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace04:38 Determining Reasonable Accommodations09:07 Accommodations in High School and College11:22 Challenges with Disability Services in Education13:59 Advocating for Accommodations in Education16:36 Disclosing Disabilities to Employers and Universities19:03 Determining Job Compatibility with Accommodations21:03 Getting a Service Dog23:37 Regulations and Considerations for Service Dog Training36:33 Dealing with Unresponsive Disability Lawyers38:07 Appealing Denied Disability Benefits40:03 Legal Recourse for Undertreatment of Pain43:07 Accommodations for Productivity Standards43:45 Correcting Inaccuracies in Medical Records47:46 Knowing When to Get an Accommodation or Apply for Disability48:36 Considerations for Applying for Disability50:23 Assets and Poverty Threshold for Disability58:58 Making Disaster and Emergency Response Accessible01:02:44 Hypermobility Hack: Walking DeskConnect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.   Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

It's an EmMajority Report Thursday! She speaks with Timothy M. Gill, assistant professor of sociology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to discuss his recent book Encountering US Empire in Socialist Venezuela: The Legacy of Race, Neo-Colonialism, and Democracy Promotion. Then, she is joined by David Adler, Co-General Coordinator of the Progressive International, to discuss what has transpired since Argentinian President Milei's took power. First, Emma runs through updates on the UN's unlikely ceasefire vote, continuing reports on Israeli war crimes, US-Venezuela relations, protests in Argentina, a mass shooting in Prague, GOP primary polling, growing challenges to union-busting in the US, and the incredible use of the MTA's funding, before parsing through a recent CNN report on the unsurprising role Israeli Settlers play in the West Bank. Timothy Gill then joins, diving right into the developments in US-Venezuela relations, including a drawback of US sanctions and a prisoner swap, and what that means moving forward. Next, Gill steps back to walk Emma through the history of the US' neocolonial approach to Venezuela, occurring at the beginning of a shift away from blunt displays of US power towards more subtle attempts at “Democracy Building,” like the funding and bolstering sympathetic actors and political parties. Expanding on this, Gill and Emma tackle the role of NGOs and political organizations in laundering US dollars to train long-term efforts to manipulate Venezuelan elections, and how that's reflected by the executive branch with the eager backing of un-elected leaders, first in the wake of the coup of Hugo Chávez and more recently with their uplifting of Juan Guaidó, before parsing through the particular role of the Chávez Administration – and their opposition to the US' global war on terror – in shifting the US stance toward Venezuela. Wrapping up, Gill explores the role of anti-imperialism as a patriotic force within Venezuela, and touches on the lingering tentacles of US neo-colonialism. David Adler then jumps right into the early action of Javier Milei's administration in Argentina as a direct representation of his extreme anarcho-capitalist ideology and his coalition with the “Law and Order” right, including an unprecedented crackdown on peaceful protests with direct attacks on their rights and welfare as they speak out against his attacks on their rights and welfare. Adler also parses through Milei's most recent display of hyper-neoliberalism – via a sweeping 600-article piece of legislation – before exploring the strong majority with which Milei won office, and what that means for the staunch backlash to his early actions. After expanding on the important context of massive foreign debt left by Mauricio Marcri's Administration, David and Emma wrap up with an assessment of yesterday's mass protests of the free-speech crackdown by Milei, and what that suggests for the future of the administration. And in the Fun Half: Emma is joined by Brandon Sutton and Matt Binder as they reflect on the politics of Late Night TV and the coverage of women in 2000s media, listen to Tim Pool's newest song courtesy of DJ Danarchy, and watch Tulsi Gabbard unite islamophobia and antisemitism at TPUSA's America Fest. The MR Crew also parses through John Fetterman's apparent right-wing turn as he goes all in on the ethnic cleansing of Gaza and brutal US immigration policies, and Sargent Flux from the MR Chat calls in to talk SSDI reform, plus, your calls and IMs! Check out Timothy's book here: https://upittpress.org/books/9780822947448/#:~:text=A%20very%20interesting%20and%20relevant,literature%20on%20US%20foreign%20policy Check out the Progressive International here: https://progressive.international/ Become a member at JoinTheMajorityReport.com: https://fans.fm/majority/join Gift a Majority Report subscription here: https://fans.fm/majority/gift Subscribe to the ESVN YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/esvnshow Subscribe to the AMQuickie newsletter here: https://am-quickie.ghost.io/ Join the Majority Report Discord! http://majoritydiscord.com/ Get all your MR merch at our store: https://shop.majorityreportradio.com/ Get the free Majority Report App!: http://majority.fm/app Check out today's sponsors: Henson Shaving: Henson Shaving is giving my audience a 2-year supply of blades for FREE. Just go to https://hensonshaving.com/MAJORITY. That's https://hensonshaving.com/MAJORITY. Add a razor and 100-pack of blades to your cart, then enter code MAJORITY to get the blades for free. Follow the Majority Report crew on Twitter: @SamSeder @EmmaVigeland @MattLech @BradKAlsop Check out Matt's show, Left Reckoning, on Youtube, and subscribe on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/leftreckoning Check out Matt Binder's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/mattbinder Subscribe to Brandon's show The Discourse on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/ExpandTheDiscourse Check out Ava Raiza's music here! https://avaraiza.bandcamp.com/ The Majority Report with Sam Seder - https://majorityreportradio.com/

It can be difficult to navigate the procedures and interactions that come with a hospital visit. However, knowing what to expect going in can help improve your experience. This week, we talk with hospitalist and author, Dr. Monique S. Nugent about how to physically and mentally prepare for hospital visits. Her new book, “Prescription for Admission: A Doctor's Guide for Navigating the Hospital, Advocating for Yourself, and Having a Better Hospitalization,” serves as a guide for patients who need help navigating the hospital. Also, we touch on a bill introduced in Congress that would help terminally ill patients get immediate access to benefits of the SSDI program. Hear from Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger from Tennessee who helped introduce the bill in an episode of the Healthcare Policy Pop.    Need help? The successful patient is one who can get what they need when they need it. We all know insurance slows us down, so why not take matters into your own hands? Our Navigator is an online tool that allows you to search a massive network of health-related resources using your zip code so you get local results. Get proactive and become a more successful patient right now at the Patients Rising Helpline. Have a question or comment about the show, or want to suggest a show topic or share your story as a patient correspondent? Drop us a line: podcast@patientsrising.org The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the guest(s)/ author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of Patients Rising, nor do the views and opinions stated on this show reflect the opinions of a guest's current or previous employers.  

Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass— Finances God's Way and the former host of this program.  0:55 - WHAT'S THE FIRST LOAN TYPE WE SHOULD AVOID?Finance Company loans: High interest rates, large fees, and closing costs.Important to differentiate between interest rate and the APR, as the latter includes additional costs. 1:24 - AND THE SECOND?Payday loans:Viewed as "legalized robbery."Typically have an APR of 390%.Creates a cycle of borrowing due to high interest rates, with borrowers often giving away their entire paycheck to cover the loan. 2:21 - WHAT'S THE THIRD LOAN TYPE?Pawnshop loans:Short-term loans based on an item's value which is lost if the loan isn't repaid on time.Interest rates range from 5-25% per month.Many borrowers never reclaim their pawned items. 3:21 - AND THE FOURTH?Auto title loans:30-day loans using car titles as collateral.Risk of car repossession if payments aren't made on time.Referred to as "legalized auto theft" since you lose both the car and its equity regardless of loan size. 3:57 - WHAT'S THE FINAL LOAN TYPE TO AVOID?Tax refund loans: People anticipate tax refunds in April but might take a loan if they're cash-strapped.Some tax preparers offer these loans without highlighting high interest rates that can be in the triple digits on an annual basis. 4:40 - DO YOU HAVE ANY TOOLS OR RESOURCES TO HELP PEOPLE NAVIGATE THEIR FINANCES BETTER?A six-week video titled "Navigating Your Finances God's Way."Covers topics like debt, saving, generosity, investment, work, honesty, etc.Suitable for various settings: Sunday school, small groups, workshops, or individual study. To learn more, go to navstudy.org. And you'll find all Compass training materials at Compass1.org.  On today's program, Rob also answers listener questions: Should I tithe before or after taxes?How can I invest for retirement while on SSDI and without earned income?Should I use my 401 K to pay off my variable rate home equity loan?Is the id.me login for IRS.gov legitimate, and should I switch from an I bond to a bank CD?How can I help a woman with recurrent ovarian cancer financially, especially when she's working in a low-paying job? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit Counselors Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.   Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

The law of conservation of mass dates from Antoine Lavoisier's 1789 discovery that mass is neither created nor destroyed in chemical reactions. Evidence of the past three decades leads Marvin Olasky to suggest a parallel Law of Conservation of Welfare regarding political reactions. In 1995-1996 the first GOP-majority House of Representatives in four decades changed AFDC (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) into TANF (Temporary Aid to Needy Families) but left alone dozens of other programs. As work requirements and time limits reduced the number of AFDC/TANF recipients, programs such as SNAP, SSI, and SSDI expanded. The conservation of welfare is not good for many recipients who would be much better off with challenging, personal, and spiritual help, but changing the law requires a charge from outside current chemical configurations. 

Sam and Emma host Gerald Horne, Professor of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston, to discuss his recent book The Counter-Revolution of 1836: Texas Slavery & Jim Crow and the Roots of U.S. Fascism. Then later in the show, they're joined by  Camille Gix, member of the Initiative I-135 steering committee at House Our Neighbors, the political committee for Real Change, to discuss  I-135, the housing initiative coming before Seattle voters until Tuesday February 14th. First, Sam and Emma run through updates on the climbing death toll from last week's earthquake in Syria and Turkey, Turkey's response to contracting failures, the DOJ's lawsuit to halt a Jet Blue-Spirit merger, the IRS' dramatic service approvement, Israel expanding their West Bank settlements, and Matt Schlapp's response to being outed as a sexual harasser, before parsing through updates on the disaster chemical spill in East Palestine, Ohio, and the environmental catastrophe cover-up that is beginning to trickle out. Professor Gerald Horne then joins as he dives right into his work taking on the pre-foundational, foundational, and developmental myths of the United States, focusing on his analysis of the Texas revolution as a “counter-revolution,” seeking to expand institutions that promote a dearth of progress (indigenous dispossession, the transatlantic slave trade) rather than reinventing their institutions in favor of progress. Continuing his analysis of the Texas revolution, Professor Horne walks through the Texan elite and their push against the “Mexican Tyranny” of emancipation, then capitalizing on the success of their revolution by launching a period of mass bloodshed as they violently dispossessed the Comanches to expand their territories and plantations. Shifting away from Texas, Horne, Sam, and Emma explore the role of America and Mexico in challenging and supporting, respectively, Texas' role in the transatlantic slave trade, with Andrew Jackson using the Trail of Tears to force indigenous people into Texas' surrounding areas while Texas attempted to ally with now French-Occupied Mexico to stay off pressure from the US, lasting through to the Juneteenth arrival of Black Soldiers in Galveston to not only implement Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation but to put an end to the France-Texas alliance. Continuing forward through the turn of the century, Gerald walks through the lasting impact of this era of Texas history in the rebirth of the Klu Klux Klan, before stepping back to analyze the importance of the greater historical context behind this revolution, and how to unite macro and micro lenses of history. Camille Gix then joins to walk through Seattle's I-135 initiative, what “Social Housing” implies, and why this model can bolster the reclamation of housing from the financial world to the public realm. And in the Fun Half: Sam and Emma watch Republicans talk around cuts to Social Security, assess the importance of raising the cap, analyze the connection between Chinese Spy Balloons and the UFOs invading US airspace this weekend, and discuss the rise and fall of 21st Century renaissance-man James O'Keef. Nova from Minnesota dives into the importance of fighting for SSDI, Owen from San Marcus talks about the reach of Matt Walsh and the issues of the computer science workforce, and Rosanne takes a note from the Babylon Bee for her newest stand-up set. They also discuss the Super Bowl, and the immediate aggrievement that the right found in it (Race War anyone?), plus, your calls and IMs! Check out Gerald's book here: https://www.intpubnyc.com/browse/the-counter-revolution-of-1836-texas-slavery-jim-crow-and-the-roots-of-u-s-fascism/ Check out House Our Neighbors here: https://www.houseourneighbors.org/ Check out the House Our Neighbors YouTube channel for more voting information: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVBKjRuf0UoAlbuHuC-uidg Become a member at JoinTheMajorityReport.com: https://fans.fm/majority/join Subscribe to the ESVN YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/esvnshow Subscribe to the AMQuickie newsletter here: https://am-quickie.ghost.io/ Join the Majority Report Discord! http://majoritydiscord.com/ Get all your MR merch at our store: https://shop.majorityreportradio.com/ Get the free Majority Report App!: http://majority.fm/app Check out today's sponsors: Ritual: We deserve to know what we're putting in our bodies and why. Ritual's clean, vegan-friendly multivitamin is formulated with high-quality nutrients in bioavailable forms your body can actually use. Get key nutrients without the B.S. Ritual is offering my listeners ten percent off during your first three months. Visit https://ritual.com/majority to start your Ritual today. Cozy Earth: One out of three Americans report being sleep deprived, and their sheets could be the problem. Luckily Cozy Earth provides the SOFTEST, MOST LUXURIOUS and BEST-TEMPERATURE REGULATING sheets. Cozy Earth has been featured on Oprah's Most Favorite Things List Four Years in a Row! Made from super soft viscose from bamboo, Cozy Earth Sheets breathe so you sleep at the perfect temperature all year round.  And for a limited time, SAVE 40% on Cozy Earth Bedding. Go to https://cozyearth.com/ and enter my special promo code MAJORITY at checkout to SAVE 40% now. Hurry, holiday offer ends soon. ZipRecruiter: Some things in life we like to pick out for ourselves - so we know we've got the one that's best for us - like cuts of steak or mattresses. What if you could do the same for hiring - choose your ideal candidate before they even apply? See for yourself! Just go to this exclusive web address, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/majority to try ZipRecruiter for free! Follow the Majority Report crew on Twitter: @SamSeder @EmmaVigeland @MattBinder @MattLech @BF1nn @BradKAlsop Check out Matt's show, Left Reckoning, on Youtube, and subscribe on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/leftreckoning Subscribe to Discourse Blog, a newsletter and website for progressive essays and related fun partly run by AM Quickie writer Jack Crosbie. https://discourseblog.com/ Check out Ava Raiza's music here! https://avaraiza.bandcamp.com/ The Majority Report with Sam Seder - https://majorityreportradio.com/