Merging Into Life

Latest Episodes:

Identity Theft: How to protect yourself online and off Oct 21, 2024

From identity theft to scams, fraud is a reality we all have to come to terms with. But rather than live in fear, let’s figure out what’s at stake and how to protect ourselves.

In this episode we have Robert Siciliano, CEO of ProtectNowLLC. com, and Mike Breumer, Vice President of Consumer Protection for Experian. They’ll walk us through how to spot a scam, protect your identity, and how to make sure no one can access your credit except you. Constant vigilance helps, but people make mistakes. Listen in, and you'll feel empowered to handle whatever comes your way.

The facts about drowsy driving: How to stay safe at the wheel Oct 07, 2024

We know not to drive drunk, or impaired. Speeding is dangerous, and so is driving while distracted. But just as dangerous, though less talked about is drowsy driving.

In this episode, we’re going to hear how one woman dealt with her sister’s death by becoming a victims' advocate for traffic safety. Jennifer Pearce will delve into the real dangers behind drowsy driving and how pushing ourselves to operate on less and less sleep isn’t just damaging to our health, but also to our safety. Alec Slatky will talk about some of the work AAA is doing to better understand drowsy driving, because as it turns out, we often don’t even know when we’re doing it.

Resources:

How To Avoid Drowsy Driving

Budgeting 101 Sep 23, 2024

Beating the garbage truck, staying on top of the dishes, exercising regularly…small but mighty accomplishments. Though, few can compare to the satisfaction of making and sticking to a budget.

In this episode, Ashley Bove, workplace financial consultant with Fidelity Investments shares simple and straightforward ways to keep track of your money. She covers living expenses, saving, an emergency fund, debt repayment and how to make sure there’s something left over for you at the end of every month.

Your first real home: Moving out and moving in Sep 09, 2024

Forget your childhood home and your dorm room, this episode is about your first real home of your own. You get to decide how to decorate, when you’ll do the dishes and if you’ll eat on the couch or at the dining room table. But, with great power comes great responsibility, so you might have to move your own stuff as well. But don’t worry, we have you covered.

Our guests Rob Shetler, Vice President at Shetler Moving & Storage, and Jami Supsic, Home and Style Director at HGTV Magazine, will cover how to make the most of your space, if the couch will fit through the door, how long it takes to pack (hint: longer than you think) and much, much more.

Resources

To search for a registered mover: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Your first-time pet-owner's guide Aug 26, 2024

Are you thinking about welcoming a puppy into your life? Maybe you have dreamed of an aquarium in your home office or a kitten for your apartment. Pets bring an unmistakable joy to the lives of their owners, but they are also a big commitment. And they can affect not only your lifestyle but your budget as well.

On this episode we explore all things pet related, from how to choose between a responsible breeder or a shelter, to how to budget for those unexpected medical costs. Veterinarian Dr. Ann Hohenhaus and Abbie Harrison, Associate Editorial Director for Daily Paws and The Spruce Pets, are here to help you navigate the world of pet ownership so you can enjoy all the love and affection without worry.

And don't forget, for peace of mind, AAA Northeast offers pet insurance for accidents, injuries, and illnesses.

Resources

Ask the Vet Podcast

Buying your first home Aug 12, 2024

For many prospective homeowners, buying your first home can be as daunting as it is exciting. How do I pick a realtor? What does an underwriter do? How much should I spend on a downpayment?

Navigating the homebuying process can be overwhelming, but we are here to help! Steven Vieira, Director of Mortgage Sales and Operations for AAA Northeast, and Monica Soyemi, Residential Real Estate Agent in New York and Youtube Creator, are here to demystify the real estate game. Grab a pen and paper, you are going to want to take notes!

Resources:

Tips for understanding your credit report

How to build your credit score

How to be the best mortage loan candidate

Everything you need to know about car repair Jul 29, 2024

Your car is (or at least should be) a well-oiled machine. But without the proper upkeep, things will start to break down.

A trip to the mechanic isn’t cheap, so we'll talk about what you can do to keep your vehicle out of the shop as long as possible, and how to find someone you trust when it’s time to get some outside help.

Guests Peyton Knight, owner of Knight’s Auto Repair and Audra Fordin, CEO of Women Auto Know, share their expertise.

Resources

https://www.knightsautorepair.com/

https://www.womenautoknow.com/

Road trip starter pack: Basic planning essentials Jul 15, 2024

Having a car means the open road is yours to explore. The possibilities for adventure are endless! But, before heading out on a road trip, there are a few things to consider. What should you pack? How do you stay safe? And, how do you even choose where to go?

Travel blogger Lindsey Basara (New England Chickadee) and AAA auto travel manager Adrain Petrie have the key to unlock all those questions. Whether you’re embarking on a multi-day adventure, or just looking for quick getaway, this episode gives you all the tips and tricks for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Resources

Melt Bar and Grilled

Baby's first ride: Choosing the best car seat Jul 01, 2024

Bringing a new baby home is exciting and nerve-racking, especially when ensuring their safety during those first car rides. When it comes to car seats, you NEED to get it right.

Which one is the best? How much should you spend? Can you buy a used one? How do you install it? Which side of the vehicle does it go in?

When it comes to safety, there are nuances galore. Adelle Zocher, AAA Northeast Safety Specialist, will guide you through everything you need to know.

Resources:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/right-seat

https://cert.safekids.org/

Connecticut Child Passenger Safety Info

New Hampshire - Be Seat Smart - Child Passenger Safety Info

New Jersey Child Passenger Safety Info

New York Child Passenger Safety Info

Massachusetts Child Passenger Safety Info

Rhode Island Child Passenger Safety Info

Insurance 101: Understanding the basics Jun 17, 2024

Ever feel lost in a maze of insurance jargon? Relax, we've got you covered!

In this episode of Merging Into Life, we peel back the layers of the sometimes confusing world of insurance with industry experts Emily Buckley and Brad Ferris. From unraveling the mysteries of umbrella insurance to nailing down how much life coverage you actually need, let the pros guide you.

Plus, the inside scoop on getting the best renewal rates, vehicles that are a breeze to insure, and surprising truths about renters insurance that could save you big.

When it comes to protecting your world, knowledge is power. Listen now for information you can use!

Head to AAA.com/Insurance.

Theme park secrets: planning your first family trip Jun 03, 2024

Every child dreams of going on a theme park adventure. Rollercoasters, magical characters, delicious food— what's not to love? But planning a trip to a theme park can also feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you narrow down what to do?

Enter Felicia Troy, AAA travel sales manager and Disney enthusiast. Having planned countless theme park trips, Felicia knows how to maximize your experience and find fun for the whole family. From defining a budget to choosing the perfect accommodation and dealing with long lines, we’ve got you covered.

Listen in for tips that will make your theme park adventure one to remember.

Buying your first car? Here's what you need to know May 20, 2024

How do you get the highest value for the lowest price? Is it better to buy new, or used? Lease or pay in full? Four door or hatchback? And what about all those upsell options, like undercoating?

There's a lot to know about buying a car. Don't worry - we got you!

You'll learn how to negotiate a deal, where to get financing, the best time to buy a vehicle, and what to know before you even start shopping.

Guests Nicole Wakelin, automotive journalist, and Ted Lyons, VP of financial services, AAA Northeast Bank, share their expertise.

Welcome to Merging Into Life May 06, 2024

The road to being a fully functioning, thriving adult is full of bumps, blind corners, and dead ends. There’s so much to learn: whether it’s buying your first decent car, nailing that promotion, or planning a vacation without overpaying. It’s confusing out there, without much to guide you… until now!

AAA has been helping people both on and off the road for 122 years. In each episode of Merging Into Life, host Amanda Greene shares stories from her own life about navigating the markers and milestones of adulthood. She recruits family, friends, and experts from AAA and beyond to help her figure out how to meet life’s challenges without falling off the edge of the map.

Being an adult is not easy – and we’re here to accelerate your learning and equip you for the smoothest ride possible.

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