Freddie Bell

Advocating for the Community

This week on New Beginnings, Freddie Bell welcomes Jay Haapala from AARP Minnesota for a conversation about the organization’s community outreach efforts happening across the Twin Cities this summer. From educational programs and advocacy work to appearances at Pride, the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Back to the 50s, and wellness events like Walk With a Doc, Jay shares how AARP continues helping people navigate aging, caregiving, fraud prevention, health, and retirement issues while staying active and connected in the community.  Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

Medicare and Prescription Costs

This week on New Beginnings, Freddie Bell sits down with Jay Haapala of AARP Minnesota to discuss why Americans continue paying the highest prescription drug prices in the world. Jay explains new Medicare drug price negotiations, the growing concern many Americans feel about affording healthcare, and the policy changes AARP supports to help lower medication costs. The conversation explores how prescription affordability impacts families, retirees, and the future of healthcare in America. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

Community Outreach in the Twin Cities

Original Air Date: June 21st This week on New Beginnings, Freddie Bell welcomes Jay Haapala from AARP Minnesota for a conversation about the organization’s community outreach efforts happening across the Twin Cities this summer. From educational programs and advocacy work to appearances at Pride, the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Back to the 50s, and wellness events like Walk With a Doc, Jay shares how AARP continues helping people navigate aging, caregiving, fraud prevention, health, and retirement issues while staying active and connected in the community. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

 

Protecting Consumers Against Fraud

Original Air Date: June 7th This week on New Beginnings, Freddie Bell talks with AARP Minnesota’s Jay Haapala about a new Minnesota law aimed at protecting consumers from cryptocurrency kiosk scams. Jay explains why these machines became a growing concern for fraud victims, how scammers used them to steal money, and what the new legislation means for Minnesotans moving forward. The conversation also highlights AARP’s ongoing advocacy work at the State Capitol and ways listeners can get involved in consumer protection efforts. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

New Beginnings with Freddie Bell

Original Air Date: May 31st Every day offers a chance for a new beginning. Join Freddie Bell for an uplifting hour of inspiration, encouragement, and practical wisdom designed to help you navigate life's challenges and embrace new possibilities.

Through thought-provoking conversations, inspiring stories, interviews with guests making a positive difference, and timeless spiritual insights, New Beginnings encourages listeners to live with greater purpose, hope, and intention. Whether you're seeking personal growth, renewed faith, motivation, or simply a positive start to your day, this program offers ideas and perspectives that can help you move forward with confidence.

No matter where you've been or what you're facing, remember: every moment is an opportunity for a new beginning.

New Beginnings with Freddie Bell—inspiring hope, one conversation at a time. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

Volunteers

Original Air Date: May 24th Freddie Bell talks with Cathy McLeer, State Director for AARP Minnesota, about the vital role volunteers play in strengthening communities across the state. From fraud prevention and tax assistance to advocacy and social connection programs, AARP volunteers are helping Minnesotans age with purpose and dignity. The conversation also highlights flexible volunteer opportunities for listeners looking to give back, stay active, and make meaningful connections. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

BikeMN / Active Living

Original Air Date: May 17th Freddie Bell welcomes Cathy McLeer from AARP Minnesota to discuss healthy aging through biking, movement, and community engagement. AARP’s partnership with the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota is creating safer, more accessible biking opportunities for people of all ages and experience levels. Listeners will hear about upcoming community rides across Minnesota and how biking supports physical health, emotional wellness, and stronger neighborhoods. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

Spring-Clean Your Finances

Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s also the perfect time to organize your finances. Freddie Bell and Cathy McLeer discuss practical ways listeners can strengthen financial security, reduce unnecessary expenses, protect themselves from fraud, and prepare for retirement. The interview also covers Minnesota’s new Secure Choice Retirement Program and simple financial habits that can make a lasting difference. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

 

The Economic Value of Family Caregiving

On this episode of New Beginnings with Freddie Bell, we shine a light on the often unseen role of family caregivers. Cathy McLeer from AARP Minnesota shares new data revealing that over 840,000 Minnesotans provide care for loved ones—contributing an estimated $11.1 billion in unpaid support each year. We explore what caregiving really looks like, the personal and financial challenges caregivers face, and the resources available to help. It’s a powerful reminder that caring for others is both an act of love—and a vital part of our community. Freddie walks us through a reality check. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334

National Volunteer Month

Original Air Date: April 26th On this episode of New Beginnings with Freddie Bell, we celebrate National Volunteer Month by highlighting the people who make our communities stronger every day. Cathy McLeer from AARP Minnesota joins us to talk about the impact of more than 360 volunteers across the state—and how giving your time can create purpose, connection, and real change. Whether you have a few hours or want to take on a bigger role, this conversation just might inspire you to get involved. Freddie walks us through a reality check. Freddie Bell's new book, Words to the Wise is available at https://www.amazon.com/Words-Wise-Guide-Daily-Living/dp/B09LGRV334