You Earned This: The Social Security & Medicare Podcast!

Here in the Senior Zone... with radio host Shawn Perry

Shawn Perry is a radio personality in the Washington, DC area who launched a show for older listeners called "The Senior Zone" 8 years ago -- with no experience in broadcasting, but a passion for seniors' issues. Before starting the radio show, Shawn spent 22 years in the U.S. Air Force and worked in the health services sector. Today, he talks about the importance of Social Security and Medicare, the scourge of ageism, and what inspired him to start his own radio show. (Hint: It had something to do with his grandmother.)

Comedian Missy Hall & Finding the Humor in Growing Older (Season 4 Debut!)

It turns out that humor is one of the best tools for healthy aging. No one knows that better than this week's guest, stand-up comedian Missy Hall. She's a nationally-touring headliner best known for her appearances on the Showtime comedy franchise, "Funny Women of a Certain Age." In this debut episode of SEASON FOUR, Missy riffs on her experiences as a comedian, parent of a teenage daughter, grandparent, and cancer survivor - and shares her belief that its never too late to try something new.

Defending Seniors in Michigan - w/ AARP's Paula Cunningham (Encore Episode)

Michigan is a fascinating place --- a swing state with a large senior population. In fact, 1 in 5 Michicanders is over 65. Our guest this week, Paula Cunningham, is on the forefront of seniors' advocacy in the Great Lakes State. As director of AARP Michigan, she has a lot to say about the stresses of family caregivers, the value of home and community based care, and the future of Social Security --- among many other things! Don't miss this chat with a woman on a mission to improve the lives of older people in her state --- and the family members who care for them. READ THE TRANSCRIPT HERE::::: https://youearnedthis.org/defending-seniors-in-the-great-lakes-state-aarps-paula-cunningham/ [https://youearnedthis.org/defending-seniors-in-the-great-lakes-state-aarps-paula-cunningham/]

Senator Ron Wyden: Trump Leaves People "in the Dust" (Encore episode)

In this encore episode from November, 2025, Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) tells us that Trump and congressional Republicans are leaving people of modest means "in the dust" --- by jacking up health insurance costs while showering the wealthy with huge tax cuts. He's also worried about the future of Medicare, as the disadvantages of Medicare Advantage become increasingly apparent and the Trump administration meddles with traditional Medicare in disturbing ways. Don't miss our visit with one of the most fervent advocates for Americans' health care in the U.S. Senate.

A Boomer Gyrocopter Pilot Takes to the Sky (Encore episode)

62 year-old gyrocopter pilot Caroline Paul is an inspiration to Boomers seeking a sense of adventure in later life. She's the author of the new book, "Why Fly: Seeking Awe, Healing, and Our True Selves in the Sky." In this encore episode, Caroline shares her philosophy about approaching life courageously, while weighing risk and reward. A must-listen for anyone who dreams of soaring -- literally or otherwise! Her book is available at carolinepaul.com. READ THE TRANSCRIPT HERE::::: https://youearnedthis.org/why-fly-a-boomer-takes-to-the-sky-w-author-caroline-paul/ [https://youearnedthis.org/why-fly-a-boomer-takes-to-the-sky-w-author-caroline-paul/]