What if you stopped waiting for the “perfect time” to travel and just went? In this episode of Merging Into Life, host Kim Rodrigues speaks with Mikah Meyer, who started visiting U.S. National Parks one day, and then didn’t stop until he had visited all 419. From growing up in a flat state with no outdoors experience to setting world records, Mikah’s story is proof that adventure doesn’t require credentials, just intention.They talk about what the outdoors can teach us about time, purpose, and grief; how to overcome the pressure to always be working; and why our own backyard might be the best place to start exploring. Watch short film "Canyon Chorus" free: https://www.mikahmeyer.com/documentaryDonate to Mikah's feature film "Wild Goose Chase": https://www.mikahmeyer.com/donateHomepage with video of Mikah's favorite National Park Service site: https://www.mikahmeyer.com/
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How Loans Work: from college debt to buy now pay later and beyond
From student loans to credit cards, car payments to “Pay in 4” buttons at checkout, borrowing money has never been more common or more complicated. In this episode of Merging Into Life, we break down the modern borrowing landscape: what to know before taking out a loan, how credit scores really work, and are newer forms of credit like Buy Now, Pay Later a blessing or a financial trap.Julien and Kiersten are joined by William Black, a former managing director at Moody’s and longtime credit expert, to demystify the loan process and explore how your borrowing decisions can impact your credit, your stress levels, and your overall financial wellness.Will's LinkedIn: @william-black-nyc
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How to Manage Money Stress and Build a Healthier Mindset
We all know the basics: spend less than you earn, save regularly, and avoid unnecessary debt. But if it were really that simple, we’d all be doing it. The truth is, our emotions drive more financial decisions than we realize. In this episode of Merging Into Life, Julien dives into the emotional side of money with Certified Financial Planner™ Eoin McGee. They explore how stress, habits, identity, and even childhood experiences shape the way we spend, save, and think about our financial futures.From subconscious spending triggers to lifestyle creep, Eoin offers practical advice for building better habits, starting with understanding your mindset.Follow Eoin: @eoin_mcgee
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Til Debt Due Us Part: Talking About Money Without Shame
Talking about money with your partner isn’t just a financial decision, it’s an emotional one. Whether you’re dating, married, or somewhere in between, how you communicate about spending, saving, and values can make or break trust in a relationship. Yet for many couples, these conversations feel daunting or even taboo. In this episode of Merging Into Life, we explore why financial transparency matters, how to approach money talks with less fear, and what it takes to truly align as a team. Kiersten and Julien are joined by Dr. Abby Medcalf, a psychologist and relationship expert who shares how couples can use financial conversations to build connection rather than conflict.
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Welcome to Season 2!
Nobody hands you a manual for adulthood, but that doesn’t mean you have to wing it alone! Season 2 of Merging Into Life is here to unpack the real questions we all face, from buying your first car to planning a family vacation, and finding the courage to bring up finances with your partner. This season is all about meeting life’s twists and turns with confidence. Hosted by a rotating cast of experts and storytellers, and powered by AAA Northeast, we’re not just talking about adulting, we’re helping you do it better. Meet the Hosts:Julien & Kiersten Saunders – Financial FuturesKim Rodrigues – Travel TransformedZack Klapman – Road ReadySabrina Pierotti – Everyday Mastery
The road to becoming a confident, capable adult is full of unexpected twists: financial questions, travel mishaps, car drama, and life choices that nobody really prepared us for. That’s where we come in.
Hosted by experts who understand what it’s like to figure things out as you go, we’re here to help you navigate it all. Buckle up as we merge into life together. It can be a wild ride, but this educational podcast is here to make the journey a little smoother.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA and/or its affiliates.
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