In Clear Terms with AARP California™

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon welcomes Michael Murray, the new State Director for AARP California. Michael shares his journey with AARP and explains how the organization works to support the more than 3.2 million AARP members in California. The conversation explores what AARP really does, clears up common myths about the organization, and highlights the issues shaping the future of aging in California. From caregiving and financial security to housing, transportation, and livable communities, Michael discusses the priorities guiding AARP’s work across the state and what Californians can expect in 2026. He also shares how individuals can volunteer, stay informed, and help build communities that work for people of all ages. Whether you’re already involved with AARP or simply curious about the organization’s impact, this episode offers a clear look at how advocacy, policy, and community engagement come together to support Californians throughout every stage of life. Follow Us Twitter @AARPCA Facebook @aarpcalifornia Instagram @aarpca Additional Resources: Learn more about AARP California: AARP California Explore AARP policy priorities: The Policy Book Introduction | AARP Policy Book Learn about California’s aging strategy: Master Plan for Aging Listen to the original episode introducing AARP California: Welcome to In Clear Terms with AARP California | In Clear Terms with AARP California™ Presented by AARP California www.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with Lester Kwok, a retired FBI Special Agent with over 20 years of experience investigating fraud. Lester brings deep insights from his time working financial crimes and leading elder fraud initiatives, both within the FBI and now in the private sector.They break down the evolving tactics scammers use to target older adults, including the rise of artificial intelligence tools like voice cloning and deepfake videos. Lester shares real-world examples, red flags to watch for, and practical steps you and your loved ones can take to stay safe, especially during the busy holiday season.You’ll also hear what to do if you think you've been scammed, how to report it, and why it’s so important to speak up. This episode gives you the tools to pause, think, and protect yourself.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Learn more about fraud prevention: AARP Fraud Watch Network™Report a Scam or Get Help: AARP Fraud Helpline — Call 877-908-3360 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET) [help.aarp.org]Learn how to spot scams: Scams & Fraud Prevention TipsPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Family caregivers are the unsung backbone of California’s long-term care system and they’re under increasing pressure. In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon is joined by Dr. Donna Benton, Director of the USC Family Caregiver Support Center, and Dr. Nina Weiler-Harwell, Associate Director of Advocacy & Community Engagement with AARP California. They break down new state-level data on caregiving, share recent policy wins like SB 590, and call out the real gaps facing unpaid caregivers across California.From workplace challenges and financial stress to legislative advocacy and the California Master Plan for Aging, this conversation brings clarity to the caregiving landscape in 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re caring for a loved one or just want to better understand the caregiving crisis in California, this episode offers key takeaways and real solutions.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Explore AARP’s Caregiving Hub: aarp.org/caregivingRead Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Family Caregiving Across StatesRead Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: CaliforniaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with Heather Tinsley-Fix, Senior Advisor of Employer Engagement at AARP, to discuss the value of experience in today’s workplace. Heather shares data and insights on how older workers are shaping the modern job market, the myths that still hold many back, and the growing movement toward intergenerational organizations. From job search strategies to addressing ageism, this episode offers a grounded, practical look at the realities—and opportunities—of working at 50 and beyond.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Visit aarp.org/work to jump-start your job search. Learn more about age discrimination: Fighting Age Discrimination Explore resources to help employers become age-inclusive: Unlock the Value of a Multigenerational WorkforceRead 3 Things Older Workers Should Know About the Tough Job MarketRead The Prism of Age in the Workplace via AARP’s Employer Resource CenterPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Older Californians face growing transportation challenges as they age, especially in rural and underserved communities. In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon is joined by Arun Prem, Executive Director of Full Access and Coordinated Transportation (FACT), and David Azevedo, Associate Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement with AARP California.The discussion explores what Human Services Transportation (HST) is, how it differs from traditional public transit, and why it's a critical component for helping people age in place. Arun shares FACT’s innovative approaches in San Diego County, including cost-saving brokerage models that maximize local resources. David highlights AARP California’s statewide advocacy efforts and new research into how communities can better support mobility for older adults.This conversation offers policy insight, community-level solutions, and practical ways for listeners to get involved in improving access to transportation.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Learn more about FACT: factsd.orgExplore AARP’s RideSheet solution for rural mobility: RideSheet: A Transportation Technology Solution for Rural AmericaRead how technology can be right-sized for rural communities: Rightsizing Transportation Technology for Rural AmericaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Paid family leave is often the difference between stability and stress for working families. In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon talks with California State Senator María Elena Durazo and Katie Duberg, Political Organizing Director at the California Work & Family Coalition, about how California’s paid family leave policies are evolving and why those updates matter for older adults and caregivers.Senator Durazo shares her personal journey from migrant farmworker roots to her work leading major labor and policy reforms. She breaks down the new wage replacement structure and what SB 590 could mean for families who rely on chosen caregivers. Katie Duberg adds insight from the ground, explaining how the Coalition supports families and pushes for change that reflects California’s diverse caregiving needs.You’ll hear why the definition of family is at the heart of paid leave policy, how advocates are helping Californians navigate their options, and what’s next in the fight to expand care access.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Learn more about SB 590: CA SB590 Bill TextExplore AARP’s Caregiving Resource Center: aarp.org/caregivingFind Local Caregiver Resources Serving California: Family Caregiver Resources for CaliforniaFind Paid Leave Fact Sheets: aarp.org/capaidleavePresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Older adults are especially vulnerable during natural disasters and staying safe goes far beyond just having an emergency kit. In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Luke Beckman, Division Disaster State Relations Director for the Pacific Division of the American Red Cross.Luke shares practical steps older Californians can take to better prepare for extreme heat, wildfires, poor air quality, and more. The conversation covers how to create a realistic go-bag, why local emergency alerts are essential, and the role that neighbors and community play in saving lives. He also explains how California’s new heat ranking system is shaping local response strategies and why older adults need tailored plans that prioritize communication, transportation, and accessibility.This episode offers smart advice and approachable ways to plan for the unexpected.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Explore AARP’s Disaster Resilience Tool Kit: AARP Disaster Resilience Tool KitRead the research on Older Adults and Disasters: New Research: Older Adults More Vulnerable after DisastersPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Getting older comes with a lot of questions, some practical, some emotional and some that are hard to even bring up. In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California host Dr. Thyonne Gordon talks with Debra Whitman AARP’s Chief Public Policy Officer and the author of The Second Fifty: Answers to the 7 Big Questions of Midlife and Beyond.Debra shares the key questions that guided her own thinking as she turned 50: How long will I live? Will I be healthy? Will I lose my memory? How long will I work? Will I have enough money? Where will I live? How will I die? From brain health to long term care mindset to money the conversation breaks down big ideas into relatable real life issues.Debra brings a deep background in research policy and advocacy and her own experience navigating the second half of her life. Whether you're 50 plus or just thinking ahead, this episode offers smart insights and practical ways to plan for what’s next.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Learn more about The Second Fifty: The Second FiftyExplore AARP’s campaign on caregiving: Tomorrow’s Caregiving Today. RealTalkJoin the fight to protect Social Security: aarp.org/socialsecurityPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Utility costs are top of mind for many Californians but there are practical steps being taken to address them. In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Mark Toney, Executive Director of TURN—The Utility Reform Network. Since 2008, Mark has led TURN’s efforts to advance energy affordability, broadband equity, and consumer protection throughout the state. The conversation covers the key reasons behind California’s rising utility bills, how wildfire mitigation and utility profits intersect, and potential solutions. Mark also outlines actionable tips for lowering costs at home and shares how residents can get involved in pushing for meaningful reform. Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Learn more about AARP’s utility policy work: AARP Utilities PolicySee how AARP is advocating for safer, more affordable utilities: AARP Is Fighting for Affordable, Safe, and Reliable Utilities Across the CountryRead about recent grassroots advocacy efforts: AARP California Delivers 14,000 Postcards Protesting Utility Rate IncreaseKnow more about TURN: About TURN: Who We ArePresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Dr. Brandie Nonnecke, Director of the CITRIS Policy Lab and host of TecHype, about the latest developments in artificial intelligence. They break down what AI really is — beyond the hype — and how it’s already impacting daily life, public services, and even medical advances. Brandie shares practical ways AI is supporting older adults, from health innovations to smarter public services, and outlines the ethical and privacy concerns that everyone should be aware of. They also discuss how California is leading on AI regulations and what older adults can do to protect themselves from fraud and scams. This is a grounded, clear-eyed look at the future of AI and why staying informed matters now more than ever.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Learn more about Brandie Nonnecke’s work: CITRIS Policy LabExplore TecHype: techhype.orgSenior Planet Virtual AI Resources: seniorplanet.org/AIDownload the AI Guide for Older Adults: AI-Guide-for-Older-Adults_Dig.pdfRead about older workers' views on AI: Older Workers Have Mixed Feelings About AICheck out 2024 Tech Trends for Older Adults: 2024 Tech TrendsPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Rachel Tate, Vice President of Ombudsman Services at WISE & Healthy Aging. They explore the critical role of Long-Term Care Ombudsmen in California. Rachel explains what ombudsmen do, how they advocate for quality facility care and residents’ rights, and the types of concerns they handle — from neglect and medical care issues to something as simple as boring activities. They also discuss what happens during natural disasters like fires and floods, and how ombudsmen help to ensure safety before, during, and after emergencies. This conversation offers an eye-opening look into a topic that touches many Californians and their loved ones.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Find your state’s Ombudsman office: aarp.org/findombudsmanWise & Healthy Aging Ombudsman Services: https://wiseombudsman.org/Presented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Kathy Stokes, Director of Fraud Prevention Programs at AARP, about the increasing risk of scams following disasters. They discuss why fraud spikes after major events, how scammers exploit disaster victims, and what you can do to stay safe. Kathy shares insights from her work at AARP’s Fraud Watch Network, covering everything from FEMA impersonation scams to fraudulent contractors, price gouging, fake charities, and rental fraud. She also provides key tips on how to spot, avoid, and report disaster-related scams, as well as resources from AARP to help victims. If you want to protect yourself and your loved ones from post-disaster fraud, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:AARP Fraud Watch Network: www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetworkHow to Avoid Disaster Relief Scams: https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2019/disaster.htmlReport Fraud to AARP’s Helpline: Call 877-908-3360 (8 AM – 8 PM ET, Monday – Friday)FEMA Scam Reporting: www.fema.govPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with Dr. Nina Weiler-Harwell, Associate Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement for AARP California, and Dr. Donna Benton, Research Associate Professor of Gerontology at USC and Director of the USC Family Caregiver Support Center. They discuss the evolving landscape of caregiving, the challenges faced by family caregivers, and the resources available to support them. The conversation also highlights the broader societal impact of caregiving and what it means for the future of long-term care. Listen in for another informative episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California. Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaAdditional Resources:Access AARP Caregiving Resources: www.aarp.org/caregivingExplore the AARP Prepare to Care Guide: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/prepare-to-care-planning-guideFind Support at Caregiver Resource Centers in California: https://www.caregivercalifornia.orgShare Your Caregiving Story: caaarp@aarp.orgLearn about Tomorrow’s Caregiving Today: www.aarp.org/RealTalkFind out about free webinars and in-person workshops that are dedicated to the needs of family caregivers, as well as to find events nearest to you: aarp.org/localContact the AARP Family Caregiving Resource Line:English: 1-888-333-5885Spanish: 1-888-971-2013Presented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with Dave Morrow, President of Plateau Security Advisors, LLC, which provides cyber security and threat consulting to large and small businesses. Dave joins Dr. Gordon to discuss what you need to know about the latest trends in cyber security, including how to tell if someone has stolen your identity, behaviors that make us vulnerable to scammers online, what to do if you’ve been scammed, and all about AARP’s Fraud Watch resources. Listen in for another informative episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California. To sign up for email alerts about scams, visit AARP.org/FraudWatchNetwork, where you can also get great info on how to protect yourself and share your stories on our scam-tracking map.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with David Eisenman, MD, MSHS, Director of the Center for Public Health and Disasters at UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, and Co-Director of the UCLA Center for Healthy Climate Solutions. Dr. Eisenman joins Dr. Gordon to discuss what you need to know about wildfire smoke, including: the effects of smoke on physical and mental health, measures that are being taken to address inequities caused by wildfires, and what you can do to prepare for wildfire smoke in your own home. Listen in for another informative episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California. To get a local air quality forecast, visit AirNow.gov.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with  Shirley N. Weber PhD., California Secretary of State. Secretary Weber joins Dr. Gordon to discuss where, when, and how to vote in California – as well as topics such as what her office is doing to boost voter turnout, how they are ensuring integrity in our elections, and how you can get involved as an election worker. Listen in for another informative episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California. Find information on key races, important dates, recent voting changes in California, how to vote, and more by visiting aarp.org/CAvotes. For more information on voting in the 2024 elections, visit sos.ca.gov/elections. To track your mail-in ballot, visit WheresMyBallot.sos.ca.gov.Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with Dr. Nina Weiler-Harwell, Associate Director of Advocacy & Community Engagement with AARP California, and Tony Chicotel, Senior Staff Attorney with California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform (CANHR). Nina and Tony join Dr. Gordon to provide an update on nursing homes in California. Together they discuss concerns and opportunities for improvements for nursing homes, new state nursing home legislation that CANHR is focused on, how listeners can help advocate for better nursing home laws and regulations, and more. Listen in for another informative episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California. Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CAwww.AARP.org/Caregivingwww.AARP.org/getinvolved Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with Dan Evon, Senior Manager of Education Design at The News Literacy Project. Dan joins Dr. Gordon to discuss how we can spot and stop misinformation. Together they discuss key tips to identify misinformation, how social media affects the spread of misinformation, how the public can be better stewards of sharing credible news, and more. Listen in for another informative episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California. Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with Jennifer Jones, Vice President of Financial Security and Livable Communities for AARP Government Affairs. Jennifer joins Dr. Gordon to talk about financial security, with a focus on Social Security. Together they discuss how Social Security is financed, the challenges Social Security faces in the coming years, and what you can do to help protect it. Listen in for another important episode of In Clear Terms, brought to you by AARP California. Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with Tim Morstad, a Government Affairs Director for AARP’s Livable Communities national team. Tim joins Dr. Gordon to  discuss how complete streets benefit people of all ages, models for complete streets that communities can follow, and how both residents and local governments can create safer streets. Listen in for another important episode of In Clear Terms, brought to you by AARP California. Follow UsTwitter @AARPCAFacebook @aarpcaliforniaInstagram @aarpcaPresented by AARP Californiawww.AARP.org/CA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.