Utility costs are top of mind for many Californians but there are practical steps being taken to address them. In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Mark Toney, Executive Director of TURN—The Utility Reform Network. Since 2008, Mark has led TURN’s efforts to advance energy affordability, broadband equity, and consumer protection throughout the state. The conversation covers the key reasons behind California’s rising utility bills, how wildfire mitigation and utility profits intersect, and potential solutions. Mark also outlines actionable tips for lowering costs at home and shares how residents can get involved in pushing for meaningful reform.

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• Twitter @AARPCA
• Facebook @aarpcalifornia
• Instagram @aarpca

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about AARP’s utility policy work: AARP Utilities Policy
• See how AARP is advocating for safer, more affordable utilities: AARP Is Fighting for Affordable, Safe, and Reliable Utilities Across the Country
• Read about recent grassroots advocacy efforts: AARP California Delivers 14,000 Postcards Protesting Utility Rate Increase
• Know more about TURN: About TURN: Who We Are

Presented by AARP California

www.AARP.org/CA

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Dr. Brandie Nonnecke, Director of the CITRIS Policy Lab and host of TecHype, about the latest developments in artificial intelligence. They break down what AI really is — beyond the hype — and how it’s already impacting daily life, public services, and even medical advances. Brandie shares practical ways AI is supporting older adults, from health innovations to smarter public services, and outlines the ethical and privacy concerns that everyone should be aware of. They also discuss how California is leading on AI regulations and what older adults can do to protect themselves from fraud and scams. This is a grounded, clear-eyed look at the future of AI and why staying informed matters now more than ever.

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• Twitter @AARPCA
• Facebook @aarpcalifornia
• Instagram @aarpca

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about Brandie Nonnecke’s work: CITRIS Policy Lab
• Explore TecHype: techhype.org
• Senior Planet Virtual AI Resources: seniorplanet.org/AI
• Download the AI Guide for Older Adults: AI-Guide-for-Older-Adults_Dig.pdf
• Read about older workers' views on AI: Older Workers Have Mixed Feelings About AI
• Check out 2024 Tech Trends for Older Adults: 2024 Tech Trends

Presented by AARP California

www.AARP.org/CA

In this episode of In Clear Terms with AARP California, host Dr. Thyonne Gordon speaks with Rachel Tate, Vice President of Ombudsman Services at WISE & Healthy Aging. They explore the critical role of Long-Term Care Ombudsmen in California. Rachel explains what ombudsmen do, how they advocate for quality facility care and residents’ rights, and the types of concerns they handle — from neglect and medical care issues to something as simple as boring activities. They also discuss what happens during natural disasters like fires and floods, and how ombudsmen help to ensure safety before, during, and after emergencies. This conversation offers an eye-opening look into a topic that touches many Californians and their loved ones.

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• Twitter @AARPCA
• Facebook @aarpcalifornia
• Instagram @aarpca

Additional Resources:

• Find your state’s Ombudsman office: aarp.org/findombudsman
• Wise & Healthy Aging Ombudsman Services: https://wiseombudsman.org/

Presented by AARP California

www.AARP.org/CA