RURAL AMERICA LIVE with AARP

Wed, 1/21/26 – 7:30 PM ET

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

7:30 PM ET

AARP state directors return to take your calls and answer your questions during this live one-hour call-in show, sharing helpful insights and tips to help you and your family.

On this month’s show: Ensuring your money lasts as long as you do involves knowing your Social Security benefits and the best time to claim them. Our special guest shares tips to help you plan a secure financial future.

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Utah Senator John Curtis joins us for “Champions of Rural America” to discuss new legislation to improve forest management and wildfire prevention and its broader implications for rural communities and infrastructure.
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To celebrate the release of A Beautiful Life, Dailey & Vincent are giving one fan the chance to win an unforgettable Nashville experience!
Congressman Gary Palmer of Alabama joined us to discuss federal overreach, transparency efforts, and legislative solutions impacting agriculture on this week’s Champions of Rural America.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold explains how springtime brings seasonal changes to agricultural operations and, with them, renewed concerns about safety, allergies, and mental health this week on Rural Health Matters.

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AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine shares insight into biosecurity, preparedness, and animal health concerns facing livestock producers as New World screwworm outbreaks continue in Mexico.