In Clear Terms with AARP California™

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May 2026

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About the show

At AARP California, we are so much more than our membership card and ‘In Clear Terms’ is all about informing you about the great things that we do for Californians of all ages. This podcast will cover news that you can use as you think about healthcare, retirement savings, caregiving, new technology, and legislation you should be aware of that we are engaged in on your behalf. Join Thyonne Gordon for conversations that are fun and thought provoking with community leaders, thought leaders, elected officials, AARP staff and volunteers. We are here to empower you with the facts and information that will help make California more livable for people of all ages.

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60 recent

May 14, 202638 min

Staying Safe While Traveling: Scam Prevention Tips Every Traveler Should Know

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon sits down with fraud prevention specialist and former District Attorney investigator Jason Collom to talk about how travelers can stay safe and avoid scams before and during their trips. Drawing from more than 30 years in law enforcement and decades of personal travel experience, Jason shares practical ways to protect your money, personal information, and belongings whether you’re planning a vacation overseas, taking public transportation, or traveling solo. From fake rental listings and hotel phone scams to public Wi-Fi risks and stolen phones, the conversation covers real situations travelers face every day. Jason also explains why traveling light can improve safety, how using a money belt can reduce risk, and what steps people should take before leaving home to better protect important documents and financial accounts. Whether you’re preparing for an international getaway or just looking to become a more confident traveler, this episode offers useful advice to help you stay alert and enjoy the journey. Follow Us Twitter @AARPCA Facebook @aarpcalifornia Instagram @aarpca Additional Resources: Learn more about fraud prevention and scam alerts from AARP: aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork Learn more about AARP California and ways to get involved: aarp.org/ca 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.

April 23, 202633 min

After the Scam: Healing, Help, and Taking Back Control

What happens after a scam goes beyond financial loss. It often leaves people dealing with emotions they are not prepared to face or talk about. In this episode, Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Randi Izdonavicius, Program Manager for AARP’s Fraud Watch Network Victim Support, about the real impact scams have on victims. Randi shares what she hears from callers, from shock and embarrassment to anger and hesitation to speak up. Many people keep their experience to themselves, which only adds to the weight. The conversation also explores how scammers use tactics like urgency, authority, and secrecy to gain trust and keep control. They walk through what to do in the immediate aftermath, including ending contact, protecting financial accounts, and reporting the incident. Randi outlines the actions that can help limit further damage and create a path forward. Whether you have gone through a scam or want to be ready if it happens, this episode offers practical steps and a clearer way to move ahead. Follow Us Twitter @AARPCA Facebook @aarpcalifornia Instagram @aarpca Additional Resources: AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline: 877-908-3360 Learn more about recovery steps for identity theft: identitytheft.gov Explore more resources: www.aarp.org/ca 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.

March 19, 202635 min

Reconnecting with AARP California - Building a California for All Ages

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.

December 11, 202536 min

Outsmarting Frauds and Scams

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.

November 20, 202532 min

California's Family Caregivers in Focus

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.

October 23, 202532 min

Generations at Work - The Value of Older Workers

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.

September 4, 202543 min

How Human Services Transportation is Transforming Mobility

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.

August 7, 202522 min

California Paid Family Leave

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.

July 24, 202539 min

How Older Californians Can Stay Safe During Disasters

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.

July 3, 202538 min

The Second Fifty: Answers to the 7 Big Questions of Midlife and Beyond

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.