Debunking Myths and Building Solutions with Teresa Ghilarducci

In this episode of 'Risking Old Age in America,' host Harry Margolis speaks with Teresa Ghilarducci, director of the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis and author of 'Work, Retire, Repeat.' They discuss the implications of the aging baby boomer population in the United States and the challenges of retirement preparedness. Ghilarducci debunks four major myths about the working longer consensus and explores how these misconceptions influence retirement policies. She proposes a 'Gray New Deal' to improve jobs for older workers and enhance pension security, advocating for systemic changes, such as universal participation in retirement savings plans. The episode emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues to prevent elder poverty and ensure financial security for retirees. Topics 00:28 Guest Introduction: Teresa Ghilarducci 00:53 Debunking the Working Longer Consensus 02:56 The Reality of Retirement and Health 10:26 Economic Disparities in Longevity 17:52 The Gray New Deal: Solutions for Retirement Security 24:49 The Thrift Savings Plan Proposal 30:22 Conclusion and Call to Action Risking Old Age in America