Merging Into Life

Independence usually means flying the nest. Getting out from under parental rule, making your own decisions and having some space for yourself. But life happens and sometimes that means returning home. Just because moving back in with your parents wasn’t on your adulthood bingo card, doesn’t mean it isn’t a good move. On this episode we’ll talk to Paige Mariah, a successful, vibrant, thirtysomethi...

On the one hand we have points programs, maybe insurance and credit building, but on the other there’s high interest rates, annual fees and the potential to rack up a lot of debt.  How do we use credit cards for good and skip the tough lessons? Listen in to Katherine Fan, a personal finance journalist who breaks down the basics, like how to avoid common pitfalls, make the most of your cards p...

For many of us, retirement is a bit of an abstract idea. It’s far away in the future, it can be hard to picture. The unknowns are infinite. So how do we plan for that? Step one: Just start. The earlier the better, too, because we’ll just keep getting older and it’ll be nice to have a little something to make those later years more fun. Join our guest Pamela Capland, certified financial planner and...

What’s more fun than looking back over the year and remembering all the great things that happened? Not much! So join us in the episode that finds all the fun and fascinating nuggets from the first 16 episodes of Merging Into Life.  Each episode has its charm, and we’ve gathered as much as we could fit into this one episode as a thanks for coming along for the ride with us. Life-hacks, hot ti...

Fewer of us are rushing out to drive in the first year we’re eligible. But just because you don’t start driving as a teen doesn’t mean you never will. That driver’s license isn’t going anywhere without you! If you’re thinking about taking the wheel for the first time, or you want a refresher, listen as Linda Ricci, Assistant Manager at AAA’s Rhode Island Driving school walks us through the basics....

How far can an electric vehicle  really  go on a charge? What's it like to drive an EV? Do you ever have to replace the battery? And what about other routine maintenance? Buying an EV comes with a lot of questions, and on this episode we’ve got a lot of answers. Guests Ben Sullins is an EV advocate who has spent years digging into the data and is here to dispell some EV myths. Matt Ferre...

Dust off those running shoes and let’s hit the road. Actually, shoes are important, so maybe get a well-fitted fresh pair. But regardless, if you’re hoping to incorporate running into your life or signing up for your first race, we’ve got you covered.   Runner in Chief at Runner’s World, Jeff Dengate, is here to help you get on track. He’ll cover pacing yourself, gear, and how to incorporate...

If you’ve ever dreamed of heading out into the world footloose and fancy free, a solo trip might be just what you need! Whether it’s a once in a lifetime voyage to a far flung locale or a quick trip to the next spot on the map, seeing new sites and meeting new people is one of life’s true joys. But getting your loved ones on board can be similar to herding cats, a little frustrating and often a ba...

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 s...

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...

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 emergenc...

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...

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 respons...

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 Ne...

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...

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...

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 Safe...

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 get...

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...

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 shop...

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 Mergi...