Even the CBO says the result will be negligible. Like wise the Penn Wharton Budget Model says the result will be zero. Non Medicare patients will get killed by higher prices. Some of the Healthcare cuts do not kick in for years. 82 Billion for the IRS? Please, Just keep printing.

Catch this segment as the topics range from the selection of the new Fed Chairman, to Melania in the movies and hosting a premier gala of A-listers at the White House, to AI as the go-to source for today's youth grappling with relationships. We discuss the decisions made in each scenario, the pros and cons, the optics, and the consequences. Join us.

In this episode of Living The Good Life, hosts Deb Morais and Steve Kass shine a light on two urgent and seemingly unrelated issues shaping the moral and social landscape of our time: child marriage in the United States and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence in daily life and education.

First, Deb and Steve unpack the disturbing truth that child marriage remains legal in more than 30 states, often enabled by loopholes that override minimum age requirements. Drawing from a recent New York Times article by Nicholas Kristof, they explore the legal, social, and religious factors that perpetuate this practice - and the devastating consequences for young girls deprived of agency, safety, and opportunity. The conversation calls for greater public awareness, policy reform, and community vigilance to protect vulnerable children.

The discussion then pivots to another complex modern issue: the accelerating impact of artificial intelligence on education, creativity, and human independence. The hosts examine how tools like ChatGPT are reshaping classrooms, professional writing, and even parenting, sometimes at the expense of critical thinking and academic integrity. They weigh the benefits of AI for research and organization against its potential to erode authentic learning and creativity.

In this inspiring episode of Living The Good Life, the hosts share an extraordinary story of compassion, science, and second chances. Dr. Rachel Gilardetti a Rhode Island dentist, used her professional expertise in an unexpected way — performing a life-saving dental-style repair on a peregrine falcon’s broken beak. Using dental acrylic and composite bonding, Dr. Gilardetti restored the bird’s ability to eat and preen, giving it a new lease on life.

The falcon, rescued near Rhode Island Hospital and identified as a tagged local bird, is now recovering at The Congress of the Birds in Chepachet, RI. Under the leadership of Sheida Soleimani the organization rehabilitates more than 2,000 wild birds each year and depends on community volunteers and donations to continue its vital work.

In the second half of the episode, the hosts shift gears to discuss the growing risks associated with “Buy Now, Pay Later” financing services — a trend that’s leaving many consumers trapped in mounting debt despite its convenience. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mindful spending, budgeting, and awareness of fine print before clicking “pay later.”

In this episode of Living the Good Life, hosts Deb Morais and Steve Kass bring you two conversations that highlight service, leadership, and the essential role of community. First, they welcome Melissa Cherney, the new CEO of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Melissa shares her personal journey from a childhood in North Dakota marked by food insecurity to leading one of the state’s most vital organizations in the fight against hunger. She offers an inside look at how the Food Bank is adapting to rising demand and dwindling donations, while continuing to prioritize culturally responsive and nutritious food for all Rhode Islanders. From the Senior Food Box program to SNAP outreach, Melissa underscores the power of volunteers and partnerships in making sure no one goes hungry.

In the second half, Bill George, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Broadcasters Association, joins the discussion to talk about the “AM for Every Vehicle Act” and what it means for public safety and local news access. Bill shares his perspective on the changing media landscape—how broadcasters are navigating digital disruption, artificial intelligence, and consolidation—while still serving as a trusted voice for the community. He also outlines current legislative efforts to protect advertising tax deductibility and the potential risks of new ad taxes to local businesses.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership with lived experience: Melissa Cherney’s background brings empathy and purpose to her leadership of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.
• Adapting to new realities: Food banks face growing needs and fewer donations, requiring innovative approaches to sourcing, outreach, and education.
• Protecting public access: The “AM for Every Vehicle Act” ensures that emergency and community broadcasts remain accessible in a digital-first world.
• Local media matters: Despite industry disruption, Rhode Island broadcasters continue to play a vital role in informing, connecting, and protecting communities.

In this episode of Living the Good Life, hosts Deb Morais and Steve Kass tackle some of the most pressing and difficult issues facing our nation today. The conversation begins with reflections on the recent shooting of Charlie Kirk and the troubling rise of politically motivated violence. Deb and Steve examine how divisive rhetoric - especially around sensitive topics like transgender rights - can escalate into dangerous outcomes, and they stress the urgent need for civil discourse and understanding.

The discussion then broadens to the state of political dialogue and media in America. From Jimmy Kimmel’s controversial remarks to concerns about government pressure on media outlets, the hosts explore the fine line between free speech, censorship, and responsible communication.

Deb and Steve also consider the challenges today’s younger generations are facing - affordable housing, a difficult job market, and increasing exposure to online hate speech. They highlight the role social media plays in amplifying polarization and point to schools’ emerging efforts to limit its influence.

Throughout the episode, the hosts underscore the importance of education, conflict resolution skills, and shared responsibility in creating a healthier civic culture. They close with a call to action: embrace civility, foster understanding, and find hope in working toward a less polarized, more compassionate society.