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  • AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) Diet: The Definitive Guide 

    AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) Diet: The Definitive Guide 


    The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet is a specialized elimination diet designed to help individuals with autoimmune diseases identify foods that may be triggering inflammation. Often referred to as the autoimmune protocol or autoimmune diet, this approach removes potentially inflammatory foods and slowly reintroduces them to assess their effects. Rooted in the connection between diet and autoimmune disease, the AIP diet plan is based on the idea that certain foods can cause the immune system to mistakenly attack the body’s own tissues. This can worsen symptoms in individuals with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, lupus, or multiple sclerosis.

    For many, the autoimmune protocol diet offers a structured and supportive way to manage symptoms through dietary changes. While it can be effective in reducing inflammation and improving overall well-being, the autoimmune diet protocol is quite restrictive and should be followed under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Those exploring diets for autoimmune disease often turn to the AIP protocol as it emphasizes nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods while eliminating common triggers. Understanding what the AIP diet is and how to build an autoimmune protocol diet food list can help nutrition professionals and autoimmune nutrition specialists better support clients on their healing journey.

    Autoimmune Holistic Nutrition Specialist Program Guide

    Learn How to Become an AFPA Autoimmune Holistic Nutrition Specialist in Less Than 6 Months

    Become an expert in helping people living with an autoimmune disease feel better. 

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    What Is the AIP Diet, and What Is It Designed to Do? 

    The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet is a highly structured elimination diet designed to help individuals with autoimmune conditions identify foods that may trigger inflammation and immune responses. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and a range of symptoms. The AIP diet operates on the premise that certain foods can overstimulate the immune system, contributing to flare-ups and disease progression. By temporarily removing potentially inflammatory foods—such as grains, legumes, dairy, refined sugars, processed foods, and nightshade vegetables—the autoimmune protocol diet aims to calm immune activity and support gut healing.

    The elimination phase of the AIP diet typically lasts 30 to 60 days and focuses on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods such as wild-caught fish, grass-fed meats, leafy greens, fermented vegetables, and bone broth. These foods are chosen for their potential to reduce inflammation and support gut health—key goals of the autoimmune protocol. After this phase, foods are gradually reintroduced one at a time, allowing individuals to track how each item affects their symptoms. For example, someone with rheumatoid arthritis might find that reintroducing nightshades like tomatoes causes joint pain to flare up, signaling a need to avoid them long term. This methodical approach has helped some people with autoimmune conditions like Crohn’s disease and multiple sclerosis gain more control over their symptoms.

    Who Is the AIP Diet For?  

    The autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet is specifically designed for individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases—conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, leading to chronic inflammation and damage. This therapeutic elimination diet is also sometimes recommended for individuals with other inflammatory disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The AIP diet helps reduce inflammation by removing foods known to trigger immune responses and instead emphasizes nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory options that support immune regulation and gut health. It is not intended to be a weight loss diet or a general wellness plan for those without autoimmune concerns. The goal of the AIP protocol is to identify personal food triggers and improve symptoms through careful reintroduction after the elimination phase.

    That said, the AIP diet may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or those who are underweight or at risk of disordered eating should exercise caution. As with any restrictive diet, it’s important to follow the AIP under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider or registered dietitian. If you don’t have an autoimmune condition but are interested in reducing inflammation, you might explore the anti-inflammatory diet, which focuses on incorporating foods that combat inflammation and omitting those that are known to promote it. This approach is less restrictive than the AIP but still supports long-term health and wellness by emphasizing whole, plant-based, and nutrient-dense foods.

    How Diet Can Influence Autoimmune Conditions 

    Your overall pattern of eating can significantly impact autoimmune symptoms and inflammation levels. Whether or not you follow a specific diet like the AIP or the Mediterranean diet, what you eat—and how often—affects your immune system. Diets high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats are known to be pro-inflammatory and can worsen autoimmune conditions. On the flip side, nutrient-dense diets rich in vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and lean proteins help calm inflammation and support immune health.

    Even foods generally seen as healthy can trigger immune reactions in some people. For example, whole grains may cause flare-ups in those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, which is why they’re excluded during the AIP elimination phase. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseed, and chia) have been shown to reduce inflammation in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Research also links Mediterranean-style eating to lower rates of autoimmune conditions. Whether through the AIP diet, a diet for autoimmune disease, or a personalized anti-inflammatory plan, food can be a powerful tool in managing autoimmune symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

    Dietary patterns—your consistent way of eating—play an important role in influencing inflammation and immune function, both of which are central to the development and management of autoimmune diseases. A person’s diet includes not only the types of food consumed but also the frequency, preparation methods, and combinations of foods eaten over time. Even without following a named plan like the AIP or the Mediterranean diet, most people follow eating patterns influenced by culture, preferences, beliefs, and accessibility. Research shows that these patterns can either contribute to chronic inflammation or help reduce it. Diets high in ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and saturated fats are considered pro-inflammatory and can worsen autoimmune symptoms. In contrast, nutrient-dense diets rich in vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and lean proteins tend to be anti-inflammatory and help modulate immune responses.

    In some cases, individuals may experience immune reactions to foods that are generally considered healthy. For example, while whole grains are often anti-inflammatory for the general population, they can cause inflammation in those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity—making them problematic in a diet for autoimmune disease. This is why gluten-containing foods are excluded in the AIP elimination phase. Additionally, specific nutrients have been shown to help reduce autoimmune-related inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids—found in salmon, sardines, flaxseed, and chia seeds—have demonstrated positive effects in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Diets like the Mediterranean diet, which includes these fats alongside whole grains, legumes, and a high intake of produce, have been linked to lower rates of autoimmune disease. Whether through the AIP diet, a Mediterranean-style eating plan, or a tailored anti-inflammatory approach, dietary choices play a foundational role in managing symptoms and supporting immune resilience.

    How Can the AIP Diet Help Manage Autoimmune Conditions? 

    The autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet can help manage autoimmune conditions by reducing inflammation and identifying trigger foods that may be exacerbating symptoms. 

    Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the body, leading to chronic inflammation and damage. The AIP diet is designed to reduce inflammation by eliminating potentially inflammatory foods and focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods. 

    By eliminating foods such as grains, legumes, dairy, processed foods, refined sugars, and nightshade vegetables, the AIP diet removes common triggers of inflammation and helps to calm down the immune system. This reduction in inflammation can lead to improvements in symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, and digestive issues. 

    1. Reduces inflammation: The AIP diet eliminates potentially inflammatory foods and focuses on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods. This can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can in turn improve symptoms of autoimmune diseases. 
    2. Identifies trigger foods: The AIP diet involves a period of elimination followed by a gradual reintroduction of foods to identify trigger foods that may be exacerbating symptoms. This can help individuals with autoimmune conditions better understand their triggers and make informed decisions about what foods to include in their diet. 
    3. Improves gut health: The AIP diet focuses on gut-healthy foods such as bone broth, fermented foods, and probiotics. This can help to improve gut health, which is important for overall immune function and inflammation levels in the body. In fact, the AIP diet is commonly used in people with inflammatory bowel disease to help reduce symptoms.  
    4. Supports nutrient intake: The AIP diet encourages the consumption of nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. This can help individuals with autoimmune conditions get the nutrients they need to support their overall health and manage their conditions. 

    Overall, the AIP diet can be a helpful tool for managing autoimmune conditions by reducing inflammation, identifying trigger foods, improving gut health, supporting nutrient intake, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. However, it is important to note that the AIP diet should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment and should only be undertaken with the guidance of a healthcare professional. 

    The AIP for Beginners: Steps and Food List 

    Like most elimination diets, the AIP is a short-term diet aimed at identifying foods that trigger autoimmune response symptoms. In general, elimination diets have three phases: the elimination phase, the reintroduction phase, and the maintenance phase. These phases vary between elimination protocols. Below is the general description of the steps of the AIP protocol.  

    Along with diet, adequate hydration and regular physical activity are encouraged and help to support immune function.  

    NOTE: The AIP diet should be undertaken with the guidance of a healthcare professional, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you are still getting all the nutrients your body needs while following the diet, which may require supplementation or careful meal planning. 

    Elimination Phase: Eliminating Potentially Inflammatory Foods 

    The first step of the AIP diet is the elimination phase, which involves eliminating potentially inflammatory foods for a period of time. This typically lasts 4-6 weeks but can vary depending on individual needs and response time. This time allows your body to stabilize after sustained periods of activated immune mechanisms. Foods that most often cause an immune response and thus are eliminated are: 

    • Grains (including gluten-containing grains such as wheat, barley, and rye) 
    • Legumes (including soy, peanuts, and beans) 
    • Dairy products (including milk, cheese, and yogurt) 
    • Processed foods (including those with additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients) 
    • Refined sugars and sweeteners 
    • Nightshade vegetables (including tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and potatoes) 
    • Alcohol 
    • Any other foods you suspect you might be sensitive to 

    During the elimination phase, it is recommended to focus on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods such as: 

    • Vegetables (except for nightshades) 
    • Fruits (in moderation) 
    • Lean protein sources (such as grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, and pasture-raised poultry) 
    • Fermented foods (such as sauerkraut and kimchi) 
    • Healthy fats (such as olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado) 

    If you do not see any improvements in symptoms during this time, it is likely that other foods are the ones that are causing immune reactions. Ask family members about sensitivities, where possible, or consult with an allergist, physician, or dietitian specialized in integrative nutrition to identify what these foods might be and start the elimination protocol again, keeping the list above but eliminating those specific foods as well.  

    Reintroduction Phase: Gradually Reintroducing Foods 

    After the elimination phase, the next step of the AIP diet is the reintroduction phase. This involves reintroducing foods eliminated in the first phase one at a time to identify any potential trigger foods that may be exacerbating symptoms. This is typically done over a period of several weeks or months, depending on individual needs. 

    During the reintroduction phase, you should generally reintroduce one food group at a time and wait several days before reintroducing the next food group. This is because most immune reactions that are not due to food allergies take several days to appear. 

    If you have suspicions as to which foods are causing your symptoms, reintroduce these foods first, one at a time, and wait a week before introducing additional new foods. If you notice symptoms, eliminate the food again immediately and continue the reintroduction process.  

    Maintenance Phase: Finding Your New Normal 

    Once trigger foods have been identified, the final step of the AIP diet is the maintenance phase. This involves continuing to avoid trigger foods while incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods into the diet in a sustainable fashion. This can help to reduce inflammation and manage autoimmune symptoms over the long term. 

    Foods “Allowed” While on the AIP Diet 

     While following the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet, the focus is on consuming nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods. Here is a list of foods that are generally allowed on the AIP: 

    • Vegetables (except for nightshades such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and potatoes) 
    • Fruits (in moderation) 
    • Lean protein sources such as grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, and pasture-raised poultry 
    • Organ meats such as liver 
    • Fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi 
    • Healthy fats such as olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado 
    • Bone broth 
    • Herbs and spices (except for seeds and nightshades) 
    • Non-dairy milk alternatives such as coconut milk or nut milk (without additives or sweeteners) 

    It is important to note that while these foods are generally allowed on the AIP diet, individual needs may vary, and certain foods may need to be limited or avoided based on personal sensitivities or reactions. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you are still getting all of the nutrients your body needs while following the diet, which may require careful meal planning or supplementation.  

    What Might a Day of Meals Look Like While on the AIP Elimination Phase? 

    The AIP elimination phase focuses on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods while avoiding common triggers like grains, dairy, legumes, nightshades, and processed ingredients. If you’re wondering what meals can look like without your usual staples, don’t worry—eating on the AIP diet can still be flavorful, satisfying, and varied. Below is an example of a full day of AIP-friendly meals to inspire your planning.

    Breakfast: 

    • A bowl of sautéed spinach and mushrooms cooked in coconut oil, seasoned with herbs like garlic (if tolerated) and turmeric.
    • Half an avocado for healthy fats and fiber.
    • A smoothie made with coconut milk, half a banana, and a handful of mixed berries for a nutritious start.

    Snack: 

    • Sliced apple with a tablespoon of coconut butter for a satisfying crunch with a creamy texture.

    Lunch: 

    • Grilled chicken breast seasoned with AIP-compliant herbs and spices.
    • Steamed broccoli dressed with olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
    • Sweet potato mash made with coconut oil and cinnamon for a sweet and savory flavor.

    Snack: 

    • Carrot sticks with guacamole, a perfect combination for a dose of healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins.

    Dinner: 

    • Baked salmon seasoned with dill, lemon slices, and a touch of sea salt, wrapped in parchment paper to lock in moisture and flavor.
    • Roasted brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt (herbs like rosemary can be added if tolerated).
    • Cauliflower rice made with coconut oil and turmeric, providing a flavorful and colorful side dish.

    Before bed: 

    • Herbal tea without caffeine, such as chamomile or ginger tea, to support relaxation and digestion.

    It’s important to remember that individual needs and preferences vary, and it’s a good idea to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to ensure you are meeting your nutrient needs while on the AIP elimination phase.  
     

    Foods to Avoid on the Autoimmune Protocol Diet 

    While following the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet, certain foods are eliminated in order to reduce inflammation and give the body time to heal. Here is a list of foods that are generally avoided on the AIP: 

    • Grains such as wheat, oats, rice, and corn 
    • Legumes such as beans, lentils, and peanuts 
    • Nightshade vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and potatoes 
    • Dairy products 
    • Processed foods and refined sugars 
    • Artificial sweeteners 
    • Eggs 
    • Nuts and seeds 
    • Vegetable oils such as soybean oil, corn oil, and canola oil 
    • Alcohol 
    • Coffee and other caffeinated beverages 

    It is important to note that while these foods are generally avoided on the AIP diet, individual needs may vary, and certain foods may need to be limited or avoided based on personal sensitivities or reactions. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you are still getting all of the nutrients your body needs while following the diet, which may require careful meal planning or supplementation. 

    Impact of AIP on Specific Autoimmune Conditions 

    The AIP diet may be effective for a variety of autoimmune conditions, in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues in the body, causing inflammation and damage. Here are some examples of autoimmune conditions that the AIP diet may be helpful for: 

    Note that for many of the conditions listed above, there is limited clinical evidence to demonstrate the effectiveness of the AIP in reducing symptoms, since most of the autoimmune response of these conditions, except for IBD, are not primarily triggered by food. However, the introduction and sustained consumption of anti-inflammatory foods as part of the regular diet can help to reduce symptoms. In other words, the “maintenance phase” focusing primarily on foods with anti-inflammatory properties may help the individual manage symptoms.  

    Additionally, the AIP diet may also be helpful for other inflammatory conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). However, it is important to note that the AIP diet may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions or nutritional deficiencies. It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet. 

    Health Benefits of the AIP Diet for People with Autoimmune Diseases 

    The autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet may provide several health benefits for individuals with autoimmune diseases. Here are some potential benefits of the AIP diet: 

    • Improved autoimmune symptom appearance and management: In people with autoimmune diseases, the purpose of the AIP is to eliminate trigger foods and increase the consumption of anti-inflammatory foods, which could help improve symptoms and overall wellness.  
    • Reduced inflammation: The AIP diet eliminates foods that are known to trigger inflammation and replaces them with anti-inflammatory foods, such as vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense proteins. This can help reduce chronic inflammation, a key factor in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases. 
    • Improved gut health: The AIP diet focuses on gut-healing foods, such as bone broth, fermented foods, and other nutrient-dense foods that support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This can help improve gut health, which is often disrupted in individuals with autoimmune diseases. 
    • Improved nutrient status: The AIP diet emphasizes nutrient-dense foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. This can help improve overall nutrient status, which is often compromised in individuals with autoimmune diseases due to malabsorption, gut inflammation, and other factors. 
    • Improved overall health: By reducing inflammation, improving gut health, and supporting nutrient status, the AIP diet may help improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 

    It’s important to note that the AIP diet may not be appropriate for everyone, and individual needs and responses may vary. It’s always a good idea to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine whether the AIP diet is appropriate for your individual needs and goals. 

    Can the AIP Diet Improve Gut Health?  

    The autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet may help improve gut health in people with autoimmune conditions in several ways. Here are some potential mechanisms by which the AIP diet may improve gut health: 

    1. Elimination of common gut irritants: The AIP diet eliminates common gut irritants such as gluten, dairy, soy, and processed foods. This can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut, which is essential for gut healing. Note that even though these are among the most common gut irritants, most people, particularly those who do not have an autoimmune condition, are not affected by these foods.  
    2. Increased consumption of nutrient-dense foods: The AIP diet emphasizes the consumption of nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for gut healing and overall health. 
    3. Increased consumption of fiber: The AIP diet encourages the consumption of fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and starchy tubers. Fiber is essential for maintaining healthy gut bacteria and promoting regular bowel movements. 
    4. Incorporation of gut-healing foods: The AIP diet includes foods that are known to support gut healing, such as bone broth and fermented foods. These foods are rich in nutrients such as collagen, glutamine, and probiotics, which can help repair the gut lining and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. 
    5. Reduction in gut dysbiosis: Dysbiosis, or an imbalance of gut bacteria, is common in individuals with autoimmune diseases. The AIP diet can help restore balance to the gut microbiome by eliminating foods that promote the growth of harmful bacteria and increasing the consumption of foods that support the growth of beneficial bacteria. 

    In summary, the AIP diet may improve gut health by reducing gut irritants, increasing consumption of nutrient-dense foods and fiber, incorporating gut-healing foods, and reducing gut dysbiosis. Improved gut health can have far-reaching effects on overall health, as the gut plays a critical role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and more. 

    Does the AIP Diet Decrease Inflammation? 

    Yes, the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet is designed to reduce inflammation in the body, specifically in people with autoimmune conditions. The AIP diet eliminates foods that are most likely to trigger the immune system and cause inflammation, such as grains, legumes, dairy, processed foods, and refined sugars. These foods can be difficult for some people to digest and can irritate the gut lining, leading to increased inflammation and immune system activation. 

    Note, however, that the purpose of the AIP is to identify which specific foods trigger symptoms of inflammatory responses. If you don’t have an autoimmune condition but are interested in eating a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, consider learning more about the anti-inflammatory diet, which is focused on the consumption of anti-inflammatory foods and the reduction of pro-inflammatory foods.  

    On the AIP diet, these inflammatory foods are replaced with nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods that support overall health and healing, such as: 

    • Vegetables (except for nightshades) 
    • Fruits (in moderation) 
    • High-quality meats, fish, and seafood 
    • Healthy fats from sources such as coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado 
    • Bone broth and other gut-healing foods 

    By eliminating inflammatory foods and replacing them with nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods, the AIP diet may help to reduce inflammation in the body and improve symptoms of autoimmune conditions and other inflammatory conditions. However, it is important to note that individual needs and responses may vary, and it’s always a good idea to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to ensure that the AIP diet is appropriate for your individual needs. 

    Is the AIP Diet Easy to Follow? 

    Most people find that the AIP diet is not an easy diet to follow. It requires a significant change in dietary patterns, which is why it is not designed for everyone. Those who take on the AIP are often people whose symptoms are very difficult to manage and who have high motivation to identify the cause of the symptoms.   

    Anyone with an autoimmune disease who is interested in determining what foods might be potentially exacerbating symptoms and learning to follow an eating pattern rich in anti-inflammatory foods can follow the AIP with the support of a specialized health professional.  

    The Bottom Line on AIP

    The autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet is a powerful tool that may help individuals with autoimmune diseases reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and support overall health and wellbeing. By eliminating inflammatory foods and replacing them with nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods, the AIP diet provides a framework for improving nutrition and reducing inflammation, two key factors in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases. While the AIP diet may not be appropriate for everyone, it can be a valuable tool for those looking to improve their health and manage autoimmune conditions. As always, it’s important to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine whether the AIP diet is appropriate for your individual needs and goals. 

    Autoimmune Holistic Nutrition Specialist Program Guide

    Learn How to Become an AFPA Autoimmune Holistic Nutrition Specialist in Less Than 6 Months

    Become an expert in helping people living with an autoimmune disease feel better. 

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    Sasha Aparicio

    Written by

    Sasha Aparicio, M.S.

    Sasha Aparicio, MS, is a Food and Nutrition Anthropologist with a BA from Tufts University, and an MS in Food and Nutrition from the University of San Carlos. Sasha is a Certified Nutrition Coach and an experienced adult educator, university professor, instructional designer, program director, content writer, researcher, and health content strategist. Over the course of her career, she has worked in international development, public health, consumer qualitative research, and nutrition program management, among others. 

    References 

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    4. https://www.cureus.com/articles/18455#!/ 
    5. https://escholarship.org/content/qt13m8d574/qt13m8d574.pdf  
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    12. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/11/8/1806  

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  • Smart Passive Income Merge Their Two Entrepreneur Communities

    Smart Passive Income Merge Their Two Entrepreneur Communities


    Sandy Mann, Director of Marketing
    SPI Media
    [email protected]

    Smart Passive Income (SPI) is excited to announce the merger of its two entrepreneurial online communities into one unified SPI Community. This integration introduces a three-tiered membership structure designed to provide targeted resources and benefits that support entrepreneurs from the early stages of ideation to achieving full-time income.

    The decision behind the merger

    For years, SPI successfully operated two distinct communities: the All-Access Pass for early-stage entrepreneurs and SPI Pro for advanced business owners. While these communities served members well, SPI recognized the potential to deliver even greater value by combining them into one unified space.

    “When I joined SPI, we began exploring why these two communities existed separately,” said Caleb Wojcik, CEO of Smart Passive Income. “It became clear that merging them into one place would enhance interactions, learning, and networking opportunities for everyone. This also led us to implement a tiered structure to better meet the needs of entrepreneurs at every stage, including features like mastermind groups, sprints, and quests to foster connection and progress.”

    These changes ensure members can share insights, collaborate, and grow together within a more dynamic, supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

    The new tiered membership structure

    The SPI Community now offers three membership tiers tailored to different levels of entrepreneurial growth and unique learning needs:

    • Start: Geared toward beginners, this tier provides DIY education through self-paced courses, live events, and discussion channels to help members build a strong foundation.
    • Accelerate: Designed for those seeking additional support and accountability in a do-it-with-you setting, this tier includes everything in Start plus benefits like cohort-based course accelerators, peer-led masterminds, monthly quests, and office hours with Pat Flynn.
    • Thrive: Built for established entrepreneurs, this application-based tier with quarterly enrollment periods offers exclusive access to vetted Mastermind groups, quarterly Sprints, additional office hours with Pat Flynn, the Full-Time Entrepreneur Playbook, and expert-led Thrive-only discussion channels.

    This marks the start of an exciting new phase for Smart Passive Income. By uniting its communities and introducing a tiered membership structure, SPI is reinforcing its commitment to equipping members with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to achieve their business goals — supported by a community of like-minded entrepreneurs.

    To learn more about the decision to restructure and merge the communities, listen to the bonus podcast episode, The Updated SPI Community Is Here—Behind the Scenes of What’s New with Caleb Wojcik. The episode is available at https://www.smartpassiveincome.com/podcasts/the-updated-spi-community/.

    About Smart Passive Income

    Smart Passive Income (SPI) is committed to guiding entrepreneurs from idea to income through education, feedback, and accountability. Founded by Pat Flynn, SPI equips individuals with the tools and support to achieve personal fulfillment, financial independence, and long-term success. By offering a range of resources and a thriving membership community, SPI fosters collaboration, innovation, and growth. Rooted in the belief that entrepreneurship is the best path to controlling your future, SPI empowers its members to build meaningful and sustainable businesses. Learn more at smartpassiveincome.com.

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  • Future-Proof Your Network with Cisco’s SD-WAN

    Future-Proof Your Network with Cisco’s SD-WAN


    In the same way that modern navigation systems have transformed how we travel, a robust and seamless network has become the essential guide for businesses in the modern age. Imagine trying to navigate a busy city with outdated maps or relying on a GPS system that doesn’t adapt to new routes. That’s the reality many organizations face when their networking solutions aren’t flexible, secure, or scalable enough to keep up with the evolving business landscape. 

    Now, imagine having a GPS that’s constantly updated, reliable, and capable of guiding you effortlessly through any traffic or detours. That’s what Cisco SD-WAN delivers—an intelligent, secure, and simplified solution to help businesses stay on track, adapt to changing environments, and protect their users, data, and devices everywhere. 

    This blog kicks off our Simpler, Smarter, and Safer series—a look at how Cisco SD-WAN helps customers build networks that are: 

    • Simpler to manage, minimizing operational overhead and complexity while maximizing efficiency. 
    • Smarter in decision-making, harnessing AI-powered intelligence to drive superior outcomes with enhanced performance and unwavering assurance. 
    • Safer against evolving threats, ensuring consistent protection everywhere without compromising performance. 

    During Cisco Live, we unveiled the latest updates to our SD-WAN solutions, showcasing Cisco’s ongoing commitment to innovation. These advancements are designed to empower businesses with seamless network management while delivering secure and resilient connectivity.  

    Today’s enterprises need consistent, cloud-delivered protection, no matter how users connect or where apps reside. Cisco Secure Access delivers exactly that, serving as the common SSE foundation powering secure connectivity across every Cisco SD-WAN fabric. Whether you’re using Catalyst SD-WAN, Meraki SD-WAN, or Cisco Secure Firewall (FTD), Cisco Secure Access ensures seamless, cloud-delivered security designed for modern distributed environments.  

    Cisco Secure Access is tightly integrated into the Cisco SD-WAN fabric, delivering advanced threat protection for internet-bound traffic from remote and branch users. At the same time, sensitive inter-site traffic continues to leverage the SD-WAN overlay, with security enforced at SD-WAN edges; further strengthening the distributed security enforcement model. 

    What it means for our customers: 

    • Unified Policy Management: Create and enforce a single access policy with Catalyst SD-WAN, Meraki SD-WAN, and FTD, simplifying operations and reducing complexity. 
    • Seamless Hybrid Work: Enable secure, reliable connectivity for remote, in-office, and branch users with consistent Zero Trust principles. 
    • Consistent Security: Deliver uniform security controls across all fabrics, protecting users, devices, and branches wherever they connect. 
    • Distributed Enforcement: Enforce security policies across the fabric, closest to users, devices and applications – eliminating traffic hairpinning. 
    • Simplified Operations: Manage policies and share security objects from a single platform, reducing tool sprawl, minimizing configuration errors, and improving efficiency. 
    • Cost-Effective Integration: Implement SSE capabilities using existing Cisco infrastructure without major investments or changes. 

    The remote work revolution has changed how organizations interact with their networks. Employees now need seamless access to private applications hosted in the data center, regardless of their location. However, with this shift comes the critical challenge of maintaining security while providing access to sensitive resources. 

    Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Private Application Access gives remote users secure connectivity to data center applications with the confidence that only authorized users can get in. It inspects and enforces traffic based on security policies, reducing risk and improving performance. 

    What it means for our customers: 

    • Enhances security by ensuring only authorized users can access private applications. 
    • Provides remote users with a seamless and reliable experience, by selecting the most optimal path, keeping productivity high.  
    • Simplifies setup with automated policies and identity-based access controls. 

    The result: secure access that’s seamless for users—and fully controlled by IT. 

    Managing firewalls and SD-WAN security policies across locations can create operational drag. This complexity often makes the process prone to configuration mistakes, which Gartner forecasted would account for 99% of all firewall breaches by 2025.Cisco simplifies this with deep integration between Catalyst Secure WAN and Cisco Security Cloud Control (formerly CDO). 

    What it means for our customers: 

    • Create and push consistent security policies across multiple enforcement points—including Catalyst SD-WAN, Secure Firewall, Secure Access and Multicloud Defense. 
    • Build a foundation for reusable security objects across platforms- starting with centralized policy creation in phase 1 
    • Monitor logs and events from Catalyst and Firepower firewalls in a single dashboard— boosting visibility and speeding response. 
    • Minimize policy mismatches and configuration errors with integrated workflows and centralized management. 

    The result: smarter security means fewer manual tasks—and more time for what matters. 

    For Meraki customers, SASE just got easier. Cisco Secure Access will be integrated into Meraki SD-WAN, giving customers cloud-delivered security without extra tools or added complexity. This integration enables Meraki customers to enforce security policies for remote and branch users with Cisco Secure Access. 

    What it means for our customers: 

    • Activate Zero Trust security directly from the Meraki dashboard. 
    • Apply consistent security policies across branches, users, devices, and remote workers. 
    • Extend SSE benefits to Meraki-managed networks—no heavy lifting required. 

    The result: integrated security that reduces risk and complexity—by design. 

    With these latest updates, Cisco SD-WAN continues to deliver on its promise of helping organizations build networks that are simpler to manage, smarter in operation, and safer against evolving threats. From enabling seamless remote access, to unifying security management, and integrating cloud-delivered security natively into Meraki SD-WAN, Cisco provides the tools businesses need to thrive in a hybrid, cloud-first world. 

    And this is just the beginning. Over the coming weeks, we’ll dive deeper into how Cisco SD-WAN delivers on each of these three pillars—Simpler, Smarter, and Safer—so stay tuned for more insights. 


    We’d love to hear what you think! Ask a question and stay connected with Cisco Security on social media.

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  • F1 news: 6 Austrian Grand Prix storylines

    F1 news: 6 Austrian Grand Prix storylines


    After a week off, Formula 1 returns to action with the Austrian Grand Prix.

    However, a few teams likely welcomed the week away from the track.

    A dramatic collision between McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris knocked Norris out of the race, and dropped him 17 points behind Piastri in the Drivers’ Championship standings, and opened the door to further speculation over how McLaren will handle a championship-caliber car, and two incredibly fast drivers.

    That question, and more, are on the docket as the grid heads to Austria.

    How does McLaren respond after the Canadian Grand Prix?

    F1 Grand Prix of Canada

    Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images

    As the 2025 F1 season began, everyone knew this moment was coming.

    That belief did not make it any less shocking when the moment finally arrived.

    With McLaren beginning the year as the dominant force on the grid, with the MCL39 the premier package, they looked destined to repeat as Constructors’ Champions, while Norris and Piastri appeared as frontrunners for the Drivers’ Championship.

    But an eventual battle between the two — months removed from last year’s “Papaya Rules” storyline — loomed.

    That came to a head in Montreal, as the teammates locked horns in the closing laps of the Canadian Grand Prix. As they battled for fourth in the final act of the race, they came together at the run into Turn 1, as Norris tried to squeeze by his teammate on the inside:

    Norris took immediate responsibility for the incident (and for “being stupid” in his words) in the moments after the race, even apologizing to Piastri in the media pen. Team Principal Andrea Stella noted that apology in his own comments, as he outlined that a collision between two McLarens is “not acceptable.”

    “Well, we never want to see a McLaren car involved in an accident and definitely we don’t want to see the two McLarens having contact, so this situation is a situation that we know is not acceptable,” began Stella after the Canadian Grand Prix.

    “At the same time, we appreciate that Lando immediately owned it and apologized to the team, which for us sort of reset the situation. I’m sure he has an important learning point coming from this race, he paid a price in the championship.

    “Like I said, we appreciate his behaviour straight after the accident and we will go racing again.”

    They indeed go racing again this week in Austria. But as they remain one-two in the Drivers’ Championship standings, will there be another scrap like the one in Montreal between these fast teammates this season?

    Marvelous Max Verstappen at Red Bull Ring

    Two figures will loom over the festivities this week, one literal, another figurative.

    The first is the massive statue that hangs over the circuit in Austria, that will cast a shadow over the sea of orange that assembles to cheer their hero:

    F1 Grand Prix of Austria

    Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images

    The other is how well Max Verstappen has done in this home race for Red Bull.

    While how Norris and McLaren rebound from Montreal is likely the main story heading into the Austrian Grand Prix, one cannot overlook Verstappen’s success at Red Bull’s home race. Verstappen has been nothing short of dominant at Red Bull Ring, notching four victories and five pole positions over his career at the Austrian Grand Prix.

    One of those pole positions came a year ago, as Verstappen edged out Norris and George Russell to secure P1. While he did not win the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix — more on that in a minute — he did secure a win in the F1 Sprint race at Red Bull Ring last year.

    This year is a standard Grand Prix weekend, with no F1 Sprint race, but Verstappen’s success at Red Bull Ring absolutely makes him a threat to win this week.

    Still, he will have to keep things clean in Austria, as he remains one penalty point shy of a one-race suspension. The next two penalty points on his FIA Super License are set to expire after this weekend, points that he earned in this race a year ago.

    Austria 2024, revisited

    While the incident between Piastri and Norris at the Canadian Grand Prix was perhaps the first truly dramatic moment of the 2025 F1 season, it was this race a year ago that offered the first stunning incident of the 2024 campaign, and the battle between Norris and Verstappen.

    After a slow pit stop on Lap 52 of last year’s Austrian Grand Prix, Verstappen was left to cling to a lead over Norris. The two battled over several laps, often at Turn 3, and then on Lap 64 the two clashed again, coming together again at Turn 3:

    Both Verstappen and Norris suffered punctures, and the damage to Norris’ MCL38 was terminal. Verstappen was able to continue, but he was given a ten-second penalty for causing the collision. That penalty did not factor in his qualification, as he finished fifth, more than 14 seconds behind fourth-place Lewis Hamilton.

    Verstappen was also given two penalty points on his Super License for causing the collision, points which expire following this year’s Austrian Grand Prix.

    The incident truly kicked off the title fight between the two friends, and speculation about the relationship between the two followed them around the world over the rest of the season. While the two drivers brushed those aside in many a press conference, Austria was not the last time they clashed on the track last season.

    Their clash at Red Bull Ring a year ago also opened the door for Russell, who was more than happy to pick up the pieces and claim a win at Red Bull Ring.

    Mercedes on the rise

    As for Russell, he and Mercedes are coming off a dream weekend at the Canadian Grand Prix. The Mercedes driver captured pole position for the second consecutive season in Montreal, and he was able to hold off Verstappen over the closing laps to secure his first win of the season.

    As for his new teammate, rookie Kimi Antonelli, the 18-year-old became the third youngest driver to secure a podium in F1 history with his third-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix. Only Verstappen and Lance Stroll were younger when they picked up their maiden F1 podium finishes.

    Russell’s victory in Montreal pulled him to within 23 points of Verstappen for third place in the F1 Drivers’ Championship standings, and the double-podium result for Mercedes saw the Silver Arrows edge ahead of Ferrari in the battle for second in the Constructors’ standings.

    Can they keep it rolling in Austria? It might come down to the weather. Mercedes has been strongest in cooler conditions the past season-plus, which might have Toto Wolff and company watching the weather more than anything else this week.

    Frustration at Ferrari

    Spanish Grand Prix - Preview Day - Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya

    Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA Images via Getty Images

    The buildup to the Canadian Grand Prix saw some tension boil to the surface at Ferrari.

    Team Principal Frederic Vasseur was forced to respond to reports from Italian media that he was under increasing pressure to keep his position. Both La Gazzetta della Sport and Corriere della Sera released reports in the days ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix that Vasseur, as well as other key management figures, were under threat of losing their jobs should the team keep underperforming.

    Vasseur fired back in Montreal, with both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc coming to his defense.

    “I don’t know the target. I don’t understand the target. Perhaps it’s to give shit to the team, but in this case I don’t see the point. Perhaps, for them, it’s the only way to exist but it’s really hurting the team,” said Vasseur in Montreal.

    “At one stage, it’s the lack of focus and when you are fighting for the championship, every single detail makes the difference. And from the beginning of the weekend we are just speaking about this.

    “If it’s their target to put the team in this situation, they reach their goal. But I think it’s really… It’s not like this that we will be able to win a championship. And at least not with this kind of journalist around us.”

    “Things aren’t perfect,” said Hamilton. “But for me, I’m here to work with the team, but also with Fred. I want Fred here. I do believe Fred is the person to take us to the top.”

    “We have a vision that we share, us three – Fred, Lewis and myself, in order to try and get back to winning. And we’ve been working to put that all together. This is our plan. And we should stick to it,” added Leclerc.

    Both Leclerc and Hamilton finished in the points in Montreal, but the double-podium result from Mercedes saw the Silver Arrows slip ahead of Ferrari in the standings, dropping the Scuderia to third.

    Can they take that spot back in Austria?

    Sauber on the upward track

    Change was in the air at Sauber as the 2025 F1 season began.

    Last year’s driver pairing of Zhou Guanyu and Valtteri Bottas was out, with the two taking on reserve roles at Ferrari and Mercedes, respectively. In were veteran Nico Hülkenberg and rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, last season’s F2 Drivers’ Champion. Jonathan Wheatley joined the team in the spring as the new Team Principal, coming over from years of service as the Sporting Director at Red Bull.

    And these changes come as more are on the horizon, as the team becomes the Audi works operation next year.

    But despite the changes, and the tenth-place finish a season ago, Sauber has surprised this year. While they sit ninth in the standings they are coming off a pair of points results, as Hülkenberg finished eighth in the Canadian Grand Prix, and an impressive fifth in the Spanish Grand Prix, as he passed Lewis Hamilton on the final lap to secure a strong result.

    Now Hülkenberg heads to another track where he delivered a strong result, as he finished sixth in this race a year ago.

    Hülkenberg sat down with F1.com’s Lawrence Barretto ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, and spoke about what lies ahead for him, and Sauber, as the transition to Audi continues.

    “It’s such a reset and a white piece of paper that everyone starts from. It’s impossible to predict anything.

    “The big four teams have an advantage in terms of infrastructure and all these kinds of things. But it’s a good opportunity, because it is a reset, it is a fresh start for everyone with these new regulations,” said Hülkenberg.

    “It’s extremely exciting and a good opportunity for everyone, including ourselves. We need to work hard, we need to work focused on it and hopefully we’ll come out on the right side of it.”

    But while that transition comes next season, can Hülkenberg and Sauber make it three consecutive finishes in the points this week?

  • Why Do I Need to Review My Life Insurance Annually? – Life Happens

    Why Do I Need to Review My Life Insurance Annually? – Life Happens


    Some things can take a “set-and-forget” approach, but your life insurance shouldn’t be one of them! A lot can happen in a year. Think about the changes you’ve seen in your own life: maybe you’ve taken a new job, expanded your family, bought a house, or any number of things.

    Since life insurance provides vital financial protection to your family should anything happen to you, it’s important to review it annually to ensure you have sufficient coverage aligned with your ever-evolving life circumstances.

    Let’s look at the key factors that make reviewing your life insurance annually a smart choice.

    Why Should You Review Your Life Insurance Annually?

    You’ve had a job change.

    When you start a new job where your earnings are projected to increase, make sure to review your life insurance policy. As your income rises, your spending habits may also change, so ensure that your policy can still provide adequate coverage for your family’s growing financial needs. This same principle applies to a substantial raise or promotion at the same company too.

    What about if you’ve recently retired or are planning to retire soon? While it might seem like your time for life insurance is over, this job change is also an important time to review your life insurance policy and make sure that you have the right amount of coverage as you look toward covering your final expenses, paying off any debt and leaving a legacy.

    Moreover, if you rely on life insurance provided by your employer, changing jobs would mean that your insurance coverage will be directly affected since policies through work usually end when the job does. This makes checking your insurance policy even more important.

    You’re starting a new business.

    Starting a new business means incurring more financial and tax obligations. So, whether you’re starting an online store or establishing a brick-and-mortar business, ensure that your insurance coverage can meet your needs.

    This way, your business and family can avoid financial turmoil in the event of your passing. Plus, you can also adjust your life insurance coverage to distribute your current estate—including your new business—equally among your beneficiaries.

    You’ve had a change in your beneficiaries.

    Every year, you should check whether your list of beneficiaries still has the people you want to benefit from your life insurance policy.

    The main goal of life insurance is to provide cash to your loved ones when you die, so you want that money to go to exactly who you intended. For example, you may want to remove your ex-spouse as your beneficiary after a divorce or add your adult child as a beneficiary after they turn 18 or 21.

    On top of reviewing the beneficiary list of your assets upon your death, you should also consider how your insurance payout would work for each beneficiary based on their location or your relationship. And, of course, it’s important to let your beneficiaries know about your policy and keep them in the loop!

    You have a new marital status.

    Whether you’re recently married or have gone through a divorce, it’s important to update your life insurance policy to match your current marital status.

    If you’ve just tied the knot, reviewing your life insurance ensures that your spouse is protected financially if anything happens to you. You probably have more financial obligations now as a party of two than you did when you were single. How will your partner cover all those expenses without your salary?

    Similarly, if you just got divorced, updating your policy guarantees that your children and loved ones are the ones who receive the death benefit rather than your ex-spouse.

    Your family has grown.

    Whether you’ve had a baby or adopted a child, it’s important to adjust your life insurance policy accordingly. You have more to protect with your life insurance coverage. As children enter the picture, the cost of your expenses goes up. How would your family pay for childcare, groceries, bills and even future college tuition if you were no longer there to contribute to the costs?

    Life insurance can help cover those expenses and more so that your children can maintain the same lifestyle after your death.

    You bought a house.

    If you’ve recently purchased a house, review how you can adjust your insurance policy to ensure that your beneficiaries can cover the cost of your new property in the event of your death.

    A period of grief is no time to be forced to sell your home, pack up the family belongings and move to a new neighborhood. Make sure your policy can cover the cost of your mortgage payments, so your spouse won’t have difficulty paying it on one income.

    On the other hand, it’s also a good idea to review your policy if you’ve recently paid off your mortgage or refinanced your home.

    Your health status has changed.

    Updating your life insurance may not be the first thing you think of when you experience a health change, but it’s also an important time to review your policy.

    If your health has taken a turn for the worse, that can be a reason to increase your coverage or examine additional coverage opportunities. On the flip side, an improved health diagnosis from losing weight or quitting smoking, for example, might help you get a better rate.

    Life Insurance Policy Review Checklist

    These life changes are just a few of many times that it makes sense to review your life insurance. When reviewing your policy annually, it’s best to make the necessary changes to ensure that it still addresses all of the factors below:

    • Your death benefit is sufficient to cover the current financial needs of your beneficiaries in the event of your passing.
    • Your beneficiary list includes everyone you want to benefit from your life insurance.
    • The type of life insurance policy you have still meets your needs and expectations.
    • Your premium payments are still manageable and affordable.
    • Your policy isn’t going to lapse soon.
    • You’re taking advantage of any new coverage options that your insurance company may offer.

    One of the best ways to make sure your loved ones are fully protected is to work with a licensed insurance agent who can walk you through the entire process.

  • Earn As Much As 4.25% APY – GrowthRapidly

    Earn As Much As 4.25% APY – GrowthRapidly


    Apple Bank CD rates are very competitive. How much interest you can earn depends on the term lengths and deposits. One thing for sure is that the longer the term, the more money you’ll make over time. For example a 15-month Apple Bank CD rate is at 4.25% APY.

    Of note, if you’re looking to earn more money on your investment, it might make sense to consider working with a financial advisor.

    See the best Apple Bank CD rates that are available for you below:

    Term Interest Rate APY
    3 month 3.24% 3.30%
    6 month 3.44% 3.50%
    9 month 3.68% 3.75%
    1 year 3.92% 4.00%
    15-month 4.16% 4.25%
    18-month 3.44% 3.50%
    2-year 3.44% 3.50%
    3-year 3.44% 3.50%
    4-year 3.44% 3.50%

    5-year

    3.44% 3.50%

    Apple Bank CD Rates: An Overview

    Apple Bank CD rates are the most competitive out there. They offer higher rates than most Bank CDs. And you will certainly earn considerably more interest than a regular savings account or money market fund. While Apple Bank offer higher CD rates, it requires a minimum of $1,000.  Apple Bank is based in New York City. It has several physical branches and you are able to receive customer service in person. You can open a CD for a 3-month term all the way to a 5-year term. The highest rate you can receive right now is 4.25% which represents the 15-month term. Other rates are still competitive than what most brick and mortar banks are offering.

    What is a certificate of deposit (CD)?

    CDs are certificates that banks or credit unions sell to you. Banks issue them to you for a specific dollar amount for a specific length of time. The time period could be anywhere from 1, 6, 12 or 24 months to several years. The bank pays you some interest. You get your full principal back plus interest you earn once the CD matures or “comes due.” If you want your money back before it matures, you can withdraw it.

    But you will get hit with a penalty for early withdrawal. However, there are some banks, like CIT Bank, that offer CDs with no penalty. Certificate of deposits just like bank savings accounts are very safe. That is because they are FDIC insured for up to $250,000. So, if you’re looking for safety for your cash and competitive yield, CDs are some of the best short term investments to consider.

    What is the difference between a bank CD and a brokerage CD?

    Two types of certificates of deposits exist. One is Bank CD; the other is brokered CD. Apple Bank issues bank CDs. Others, such as Vanguard, offer “brokered CDs.” Brokered CDs are issued by banks. They are sold in bulk through brokerage firms such as Vanguard and Fidelity.

    Bank CDs and brokered CDs are FDIC insured up to $250,000. Apple Bank CD rates are usually competitive, and they tend to provide higher yields than other bank CDs. The longer term CDs such as the Apple Bank 15-month CD offer high rates.

    Are Apple Bank CDs right for you?

    Given that Apple Bank CD rates are very competitive, they may be a good choice for you. So, you may want to consider them if:

    • You’re investing for a short-term goal, such as buying a house, in the next few years.
    • You are looking for peace of mind knowing that your money is insured by the FDIC.
    • You’re looking for an investment that provide higher yields than banks savings accounts;
    • You want a low-risk place to keep your cash.

    What are the Apple Bank CD rates?

    Apple Bank offers CDs ranging from 3 months to 5 years. As you can see in the table above, the longer the term of the CD, does not necessarily mean the higher the rate. For example, an Apple Bank CD for a 15-month term offers a 4.25% yield. Whereas a Apple Bank CD’s rate for a 5-year term is only 3.50%. You can buy Apple Bank CDs commission free and you can sell them commission free before they mature.

    Apple Bank 5-Year CD Rates

    The applicable rate for a 5-Year Apple Bank CD is currently 3.50%. And it requires a minimum deposit of $1,000. This is the longest Apple Bank CD term out there. And its interest rate exceeds most CD rates you’d get from banks. Learn more about this product  and apply on Apple Bank’s secure website.

    Apple Bank 4-Year CD Rates

    This 4-year Apple Bank CD also requires a minimum deposit of $1,000.  This CD’s yield is the same as the Apple Bank 5-year CD. Also, it’s higher than most bank CDs. The yield is currently is 3.50%.

    Apple Bank 3-Year CD Rates

    The applicable yield for a 3-Year Apple Bank CD is still very competitive. It’s 3.50% and requires a $1,000 deposit.

    Apple Bank 2-Year CD Rates

    The rate for a 2-Year Apple Bank CD is 3.50% and a minimum deposit of $1,000 is required.

    Apple Bank 18-Month CD Rate

    For a 18-Month Apple Bank CD, the yield is 3.50%. The minimum deposit is $1,000.

    Apple Bank 15-Month CD Rates

    For a 15-Month Apple Bank CD, the yield is 4.25%. This is the highest rate of all the CDs offered. The minimum deposit is still relatively low: $1,000.

    Apple Bank 1-Year CD Rates

    The yield for a 1-Year Apple Bank CD is 4.00% and a minimum deposit of $10,000 is required. 

    Apple Bank 9-Month CD Rate

    The applicable yield for a 9-Month Apple Bank CD is still very competitive. It’s 3.75% and requires a $1,000 deposit.

    Apple Bank 6-Month CD Rates

    The yield for a 6-month Apple Bank CD is currently 3.50%. Apple Bank CD requires a $1,000 minimum deposit.

    Apple Bank 3-Month CD Rate

    For a 3-Month Apple Bank CD, the yield is 3.30%. The minimum deposit is $1,000.

    Alternative to Apple Bank CDs: Best Vanguard Mutual Funds:

    If Apple Bank CDs do not do it for you, or you’re looking to get more return on your money, then try to invest in the best Vanguard mutual funds out there. That way your money is still safe and you get more money.

    Mutual funds are some of the best ways to invest your money. One thing to be aware is that mutual funds invest in stocks and bongs. These securities tend to be volatile. Therefore, you might lose some or most of your investment if the market goes down. So, beginner investors wishing to invest in these Vanguard Funds should also consider learning how the stock market works.

    Bottom line

    Apple Bank CDs might be a good choice for you if you want to avoid risky investments and you are saving your money for a short-term goal such as going on a vacation. Indeed, Apple Bank CD rates are better than bank savings accounts and money market funds. But the money is only available after the CD “matures.” On the other hand, if access to your money at anytime is a priority, check out the best Vanguard Mutual Funds.

    Tips for Maximizing Your Savings

    If you have questions beyond Apple Bank CD rates, you can talk to a financial advisor who can review your finances and help you reach your goals. Find one who meets your needs with SmartAsset’s free financial advisor matching service. You answer a few questions and they match you with up to three financial advisors in your area. So, if you want help developing a plan to reach your financial goals, get started now.

     

  • 6.20 Friday Faves – The Fitnessista

    6.20 Friday Faves – The Fitnessista


    Hi friends! Happy Friday! How are you? I hope that you’ve had an amazing week. I’m sorry for the crickets over here this week – I only managed to publish two posts because we were living up our last few days in Sevilla. One of the biggest gifts to myself during this long trip was that I pre-wrote 12 blog posts before we left. It gave me the chance to truly unplug and enjoy, and now we’re home and it’s back to the routine!

    I’m pretty proud of myself because for almost the entire trip, I was solo parenting. The girls and I flew across the ocean to Barcelona, enjoyed some days before our cruise and after our cruise there, did the Disney cruise, flew down to Sevilla, spent 4+ weeks there, and the Pilot was able to join us for the past few days.

    He was finishing up training since he headed back to the airlines, and while we were hopeful the timing would work out with the trip, I didn’t work out that way. Since he was going to be gone anyway, the girls and I went for it and I’m so so glad we did. They’re older now which makes things easier, but it was definitely a core memory girls’ trip! I still have some Spain posts on the way, including some of my tips, Airbnb recipes, how I travel with zero jet lag, Barcelona’s gluten-free food tour, and the food, so stay tuned for those!! If you have any questions for upcoming posts, please lmk!

    In the meantime, I’m here in a hoodie from the copius air conditioning (bless it) and snuggling with Miasey. I’d love to hear what you’ve been up and what you have going on this weekend!

    Some pics from our last week:

    An incredible dinner at Petra. This spot wins for my favorite tortilla, and I tried a LOT of them while we were there 😉

    Pollo Asado aka Chicken Man. We had pollo asado SO many times while we were in Sevilla, since it was right down the street from our Airbnb. They had chickens roasting and you just had to tell the guy how many you’d like, he’d get your chicken, cut it up and put it into a container, and drizzle with juice from the roasting dish. It was $11 and the BEST chicken. I’m going to miss it!

    The Pilot made it! He finished up training and hopped on a jumpseat out to meet us. He got there just in time for the Father’s Day celebration at Isla Mágica, which is a water park and theme park. We were with four other families and all of the kids (and adults) loved it.

    That night, we walked to La Cabonería, which is a bar with live flamenco. We got there just in time for the show; it was perfect! We enjoyed some tinto de verano and amaaazing flamenco.

    Bullfighting ring and museum. While I would never attend a bullfight, I was interested to see the museum and such an important part of Sevillano culture and history.

    (dress is here // shoes are here)

    Cañabota. Enjoyed a lil Michelin star double date night with Sam and Tony. This meal was EPIC. Everything was so fresh and beautifully prepared. 10/10 recommend.

    (the liquid in the glass to the far right was “water gazpacho.” It was clear but tasted exactly like gazpacho!)

    (dress is here )

    My beautiful friend Sam! I’m so glad that our babies decided that they were best friends forever when they were barely 3 years old.

    It’s time for the weekly Friday Faves party. This is where I share some of my favorite finds from the week and around the web. I always love to hear about your faves, too, so please shout out something you’re loving in the comments section below.

    6.20 Friday Faves

    Fashion + beauty + random:

    New dress find! I grabbed this at Corte Inglés (my favorite multi-level department store in Spain) before we left. The brand is Maksu.

    Giving a round of applause to my pre-Spain manicure. I was determined for them to be zero maintenance while we were gone, so I asked for flowers + a shade that matched my natural nails so they could grow out. The tech nailed it. This is 7 weeks of growth and you can only see it if you look closely. From a distance, they still look fine.

    Read, watch, listen:

    Don’t forget to check out this week’s podcast episode here about why you’re not losing weight, even if you’re doing all the things.

    I watched four movies on the flight home! West Side Story (the new version is really above and beyond from the acting, costumes, choreography, casting), new Father of the Bride (super cute and fun), new Snow White (I feel like despite the bad press/reviews, it was fine) and Pearl Harbor (can you believe I’ve never seen the entire thing???). My eyes were BURNING afterwards, but it was a once every 10 years kind of thing lol.

    Fitness, health, and good eats:

    Back home to my red light. It felt so good to use this again and I felt an instant energy boost. (FITNESSISTA saves you $260)

    Making Uncle E’s famous pasta salad for family dinner tomorrow.

    Ordered this grill brush since it doesn’t have any metal bristles.

    Making this ice cream cake asap.

    Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today! Have an amazing weekend and I’ll see ya soon!

    xoxo

    Gina

  • Trump’s Medicaid cuts would have vast ripple effects in this rural Colorado valley : Shots

    Trump’s Medicaid cuts would have vast ripple effects in this rural Colorado valley : Shots


    The Sangre de Cristo mountains loom over Colorado’s San Luis Valley. A beautiful landscape of snow covered mountains and white clouds is pictured.

    The Sangre de Cristo mountains loom over Colorado’s San Luis Valley. Many in this agricultural region voted for President Trump and are deeply concerned about cuts to Medicaid.

    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News


    hide caption

    toggle caption

    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News

    In southern Colorado’s San Luis Valley, clouds billow above the towering mountains of the Sangre de Cristo range. A chorus of blackbirds whistle, as they flit among the reeds of a wildlife refuge. Big circular fields of crops, interspersed with native shrubs, give it a feel of bucolic quiet.

    Despite the stark beauty in one of the state’s most productive agricultural regions, there’s a sense of unease among the community’s leaders as Congress debates a budget bill that could radically reshape Medicaid, the government health program for low-income people.

    “I’m trying to be worried — and optimistic,” said Konnie Martin, CEO of San Luis Valley Health in Alamosa. It’s the flagship health care facility for 50,000 people in six agricultural counties — Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Mineral, Rio Grande and Saguache.

    The numbers out of the bill about deep Medicaid cuts were “incredibly frightening,” Martin said, “because Medicaid is such a vital program to rural health care.”

    Konnie Martin is CEO of San Luis Valley Health in Alamosa.

    Konnie Martin is CEO of San Luis Valley Health in Alamosa.

    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News


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    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News

    Martin’s hospital is not alone. “I think in Colorado right now, nearly 70 percent of rural hospitals are operating in a negative margin,” in the red, Martin said.

    Across the hall from her office is Shane Mortensen, the chief financial officer. “The bean counter,” he said with a slight grin.

    The hospital’s annual budget is $140 million, and Medicaid revenues make up nearly a third of that, according to Mortensen.

    The operating margin is razor thin, so federal cuts to Medicaid could force difficult cuts. “It will be devastating to us,” Mortensen said.

    Lifeline for health care

    The region is one of the state’s poorest. Two in five of Alamosa County’s residents are enrolled in Health First Colorado, the state’s Medicaid program.

    It’s a lifeline, especially for people who wouldn’t otherwise have easy access to health care. That includes low-income seniors who need supplemental coverage over and above Medicare, and people of all ages with disabilities. More than 2,500 working age adults in the county with incomes lower than $20,820 a year also qualify, and would be among those most likely to lose coverage under current proposals.

    Envisioning a future with deep cutbacks leaves many patients on edge.

    “I looked into our insurance and, oh my goodness, it’s just going to take half my check to pay insurance,” said Julianna Mascarenas, a mother of six. She says Medicaid has helped her cover her family for years. “Then how do I live? Do I insure my kids or do I keep a roof over their head?”

    Protrait of Juliana Mascarenas, a woman with long hair and glasses. She has a serious expression on her face.

    Julianna Mascarenas, a mother of six, says Medicaid has helped cover health care for her family for years.

    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News


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    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News

    Mascarenas works as a counselor treating people with substance use disorder. Her ex-husband farms, potatoes and cattle, for employers that don’t offer health insurance.

    “So those moments that I was a stay-at-home mom and he’s working agriculture, what would’ve we even done? I don’t even know,” she said, when asked what would have happened if Medicaid wasn’t there. “Now that I think back, what would have we done? We would’ve had to pay out of pocket.”

    Or go without. Across the state, Medicaid covers one in five Coloradans, more than a million people.

    That includes children in foster care.

    “We’ve had 13 kids in and out of our home, six of which have been born here at this hospital with drugs in their system,” said Chance Padilla, a foster parent. “Medicaid has played a huge part in just being able to give them the normal life that they deserve.”

    He and his husband, Chris, who are both clinic managers, get reimbursed by Medicaid for the costs of providing for the kids that have lived with them. “These kids require a lot of medical intervention,” said Chance Padilla.

    The program also covers mental health services for foster children. “At one point, we had a preteen that needed to be seen three times a week by a mental health professional,” Chris Padilla said. “There’s no way that we could have done that without Medicaid.”

    What happens to cancer and maternity care? 

    San Luis Valley Health’s lobby is modern, built of red brick and glass. Down a hallway is the cancer center where patients come for chemotherapy transfusions. Nurse Amy Oaks demonstrates how they ring a ceremonial bell, to celebrate each time a patient finishes a course of treatment.

    “It’s just a happy time,” said Oaks. “It’s exciting. It gives you the chills, makes you cry.”

    But hospital staff and administrators wonder whether federal cuts would make it hard for the hospital to keep the cancer center running.

    “It could be pretty dramatically affected,” said Dr. Carmelo Hernandez, the chief medical officer.

    Hernandez’s specialty is obstetrics and gynecology. The hospital has its own labor and delivery unit, the type of service that other rural hospitals across the U.S. have struggled to keep open.

    Dr. Carmelo Hernandez is shown in a portrait in an exam room with an ultrasound machine.

    Dr. Carmelo Hernandez, the chief medical officer at San Luis Valley Health in Alamosa, specializes in obstetrics and gynecology. He and other hospital leaders wonder if some services, including obstetrics, can stay open after deep Medicaid cuts.

    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News


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    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News

    “If we don’t have obstetric services here, then where are they going to go?” Hernandez asked. “They’re going to travel an hour and 20 minutes north to Salida to get health care, or they can travel to Pueblo, another two hour drive over a mountain pass to get health care.”

    Tiffany Martinez, 34, works with kids who have disabilities. She was recently forced to think about that possibility after giving birth to her fourth child, Esme, three weeks ago.

    Her pregnancy was high risk, requiring twice-a-week ultrasounds and stress tests at the hospital. She’s enrolled in Medicaid and said it’s critical for many moms in the valley.

    “Everything down here is low pay,” said Martinez. “It’s not like we have money to just be able to pay for the doctor. It’s not like we have money to travel often to go to the doctor, so it’s definitely beneficial.”

    About 85 percent of the hospital’s labor and delivery patients are covered by Medicaid. As the program has expanded over the years, many of the patients who got added were married women from working families.

    “It impacted the whole family because of course that’s a little nucleus then that grows with the care of the family and the well-being of the family,” said Christine Hettinger-Hunt, the hospital’s chief operating officer.

    Hospital heals, and also employs

    With 750 workers, the hospital is the valley’s largest employer. One of those employees is Dr. Clint Sowards, a primary care physician. He grew up in the region, went away for school and came back to a good-paying job.

    Sowards is focused on the fact that fewer Medicaid funds will make it harder to attract the next generation of doctors, nurses and other health providers.

    Certain medical specialties might no longer be available, Sowards explained. “People will have to leave. They will have to leave the San Luis Valley.”

    Dr. Kristina Steinberg is a family medicine physician with Valley Wide Health Systems, a network of small clinics serving thousands. She said Medicaid covers most nursing home residents in the area. “If seniors lost access to Medicaid for long-term care, we would lose some nursing homes,” she said. “They would consolidate.”

    The program also pays for vaccines for children. In two nearby communities, Colorado recently recorded its first cases of measles this year, which is highly contagious.

    “If you are on Medicaid, you don’t have any insurance, you pretty much qualify for free vaccines for children,” Steinberg said. “And I can see our vaccines dropping off dramatically if people have to pay for vaccines, because some of them are very expensive.”

    Medicaid sustains a local level of health care that is then available to the wider population, including patients on Medicare and commercial insurance, according to administrators and clinicians.

    “We really utilize Medicaid as sort of the backbone of our infrastructure,” said Audrey Reich Loy, a licensed social worker and the hospital’s director of programs.

    “It doesn’t just support those that are recipients of Medicaid, but as a result of what it brings to our community, it allows us to ensure that we have sort of a safety net of services that we can then expand upon and provide for the entire community.”

    Seeking more efficiency

    Republicans in Congress say they want to save money and make the government more efficient. Their budget would cut taxes by trillions of dollars — and possibly cut social safety net programs like Medicaid.

    Many in this region voted for President Trump — in Alamosa County, he topped 54 percent. Hernandez admits Medicaid cuts could give people here second thoughts.

    “He’s potentially affecting his voter base pretty dramatically,” said Hernandez, noting politics is a sensitive topic that he mostly doesn’t discuss with patients. “I can’t imagine that hasn’t crossed some people’s minds.”

    Sowards, the family medicine physician, says he’s baffled by the idea of potentially slashing Medicaid spending. He understands that some people believe the Medicaid system is ailing and costly. But he has grave doubts about the proposed cure.

    “Just because we fall and break our wrists and our wrist is broken, doesn’t mean that we need to cut off our arm, okay?,” he said. “Losing Medicaid would have drastic repercussions that we can’t foresee.”

    Local economy depends on health care

    Deep Medicaid cuts could pack a punch for the wider regional economy as well.

    The small city of Alamosa is the hub of the San Luis Valley. It has a main street in the midst of revitalization. It has hotels, restaurants, shops and a coffee shop called Roast Cafe.

    On a recent Wednesday, barista Ethan Bowen prepped a specialty drink called a Drooling Moose. “It’s a white chocolate mocha with a little bit of caramel in there,” he said.

    The coffee shop and its adjacent brew pub do pretty good business here — in part because of foot traffic from nearby San Luis Valley Health, which is a “huge part of the local economy,” Bowen said.

    Joe Martinez is president of San Luis Valley Federal Bank, the valley’s oldest financial institution. It’s on the next block.

    He said the valley is home to three of the poorest counties in the nation. A lot of its people are enrolled in Medicaid “and the individuals that partake in the program don’t necessarily have the financial means to travel outside of the San Luis Valley for health care.”

    Cuts would hit hard

    The hospital’s regional economic impact is more than $100 million a year, with Medicaid accounting for a major part of that, Martinez said.

    Any Medicaid cuts would hit the hospitals hard, but also affect small businesses and their employees. The region is already feeling economic stress from other changes, like recent cuts the Trump administration made to the federal workforce.

    The San Luis Valley is home to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge, Great San Dunes National Park and other federally-managed lands.

    Martinez said recently laid off federal workers are already coming to banks, saying, “‘Can I find a way to get my next two months mortgage payments forgiven? Or can we do an extension? Or I lost my job, what can we do to make sure that I don’t lose my vehicle?’”

    Ty Coleman, Alamosa’s mayor, traveled to Washington, D.C., in April to talk to the state’s Congressional delegation. He said his message about Medicaid cuts was straightforward: “It can have a devastating economic impact.” Coleman put together a long list of possible troubles: more chronic disease and mortality, longer wait times for care, medical debt and financial strain on families.

    A metal sculpture of a graceful, dancing figure.

    Downtown Alamosa, a hub for the San Luis Valley’s agricultural economy, is also home to breweries, coffee houses, retail, and public art.

    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News


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    Hart Van Denburg/CPR News

    “It’s not just our rural community, but the communities, rural communities, across Colorado as well and the United States,” Coleman said. “And I don’t think people are getting it.”

    Cuts would create ripple effect

    Medicaid cuts indirectly can impact other economic sectors, like education.

    “One of the biggest factors driving state higher education funding down is state spending on health care,” said David Tandberg, president of Adams State University in Alamosa. The college has roughly 3000 students and is next door to the hospital. It’s the region’s second-largest employer.

    If federal cuts are made to Medicaid, Tandberg said, the state of Colorado will then be forced to pay more to maintain health care services. This year, Colorado is facing a billion-dollar budget deficit. Public universities like his will find they’re competing with medical institutions for precious state funding. “So anytime I hear about Medicaid cuts, it makes me nervous,” he said.

  • Examining the Safety of Self-Driving Technology

    Examining the Safety of Self-Driving Technology


    Examining the Safety of Self-Driving Technology

    Waymo has announced plans to test self-driving cars in 10 more U.S. cities, including San Diego and Las Vegas, in 2025. After years of slow progress and technical roadblocks, this expansion signals that autonomous vehicle (AV) technology is finally gaining ground.

    But not everyone’s on board. A recent AAA survey revealed that 6 in 10 U.S. drivers are scared to ride in a self-driving car. This fear is holding back adoption, even as companies like Waymo, Tesla, and Cruise continue testing and expanding AV programs across the country.

    With this in mind, The General decided to look into the safety of autonomous vehicles using real-world data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the U.S. Department of Transportation, and The Robot Report. This article breaks down how the technology works, crash rates, disengagement factors, and what problems still need solving.

    How Autonomous Vehicle Technology Works

    Autonomous vehicles use a mix of sensors, machine learning, and real-time decision-making to drive without human input, but not all systems are created equal. The NHTSA makes an important distinction between Automated Driving Systems (ADS) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). ADS controls the car entirely in specific conditions, while ADAS supports human drivers with features like lane-keeping or automatic braking.

    Self-driving cars use radar, lidar, cameras, and onboard computers to monitor their surroundings and respond quickly to what’s happening on the road. These tools help the vehicle track traffic, road conditions, and obstacles. Artificial intelligence takes in all that information and makes fast decisions, similar to how a human driver would react. Even with all that tech, companies like Waymo still rely on human drivers during testing as part of their safety practices. These drivers are trained to jump in if something goes wrong.

    Waymo’s autonomous vehicles have driven over 56 million miles in the U.S. so far. Data from these experiences helps refine the technology, improve safety protocols, and build trust with the public and regulators.

    Safety Performance: What the Data Shows

    According to the NHTSA Standing General Order Crash Reporting Database, AVs have been involved in over 3,900 crashes from 2019 through mid-2024. Of those, 496 resulted in injuries or fatalities. Here’s how those numbers have grown since 2021:

    • 2019: 4 crashes
    • 2020: 25 crashes
    • 2021: 641 crashes
    • 2022: 1,450 crashes
    • 2023: 1,353 crashes
    • 2024 (Jan–June): 473 crashes

    As self-driving cars log more miles, the big question isn’t how many crashes they’re involved in, but how often. Raw numbers don’t tell the whole story, especially as more AVs hit the road.

    From 2021 and 2023, self-driving cars had a much higher crash rate per 1,000 vehicles than human-driven ones. The gap has narrowed, dropping from 85.5 per 1,000 in 2022 to an estimated 35.6 in 2024, but that’s still almost double the human driver rate, which hovered near 20 per 1,000 vehicles.

    AV tech still has room to grow, but it’s improving. According to Waymo’s safety impact report, their self-driving cars have significantly reduced the rates of crashes involving injuries, airbag deployments, and police reports compared to human drivers in Phoenix and San Francisco.

    Disengagements: When Humans Take Over

    Even the most advanced self-driving cars aren’t fully self-sufficient yet. A key measure of progress in AVs is the disengagement rate, when the vehicle either hands control back to a human or the human safety driver decides to take over. These moments are important for spotting weak points in the technology.

    A recent U.S. Department of Transportation report breaks down the most common reasons AVs disengage. The most common causes included:

    • Control errors. The car failed to execute the driving plan correctly, such as turning, stopping, or steering.
    • Planning failures. The system couldn’t figure out a safe, legal path to keep driving.
    • System issues. The car didn’t perform the way it was supposed to during regular driving conditions.
    • Perception gaps. The AV struggled to detect nearby objects or traffic accurately.
    • Prediction errors. The system couldn’t correctly forecast how other drivers or pedestrians would move.

    Ongoing Issues and Challenges

    One of the biggest challenges for self-driving cars is handling complex, unpredictable situations. Things like human behavior, construction zones, and bad weather can throw them off. They also struggle with subtler moments, like reading signals from a traffic cop or reacting to drivers who break the rules. These movements can be difficult to account for in advance, which makes it hard to guarantee safety in every scenario.

    Today’s AI isn’t ready for everything the road can throw at it. That’s why companies like Waymo are putting so much time and energy into making it smarter. Waymo is building AI models that don’t just follow the rules. They’ll also be designed to see and react to the world around them more like a human would. These models aim to combine driving experience with broader reasoning skills, so the system recognizes patterns, predicts how others might behave, and makes smarter decisions in real time.

    But there’s still the problem of AV data collection and reporting. Safety and disengagement reports vary from one manufacturer, state, and testing program to the next. A lack of standardization or clear benchmarks makes it difficult to compare performance results and get a clear picture of what’s working, what’s not, and how safe these vehicles actually are.

    Moving Forward: Trust, Testing, and Transparency

    No longer a futuristic concept, self-driving cars are here, and they’re improving. AVs have logged millions of miles and learned from thousands of incidents. They’ve also started to narrow the safety gap with human drivers, but they’re not there yet when it comes to fully replacing people behind the wheel.

    Disengagements, perception errors, and planning failures are still common. To move forward, the industry needs transparent safety data and standardized reporting. Without that, it’s hard to know which systems are truly getting better and which just look good on paper.

    Public trust also matters. Most drivers still feel uneasy about self-driving cars. Building confidence will take more real-world testing, smarter regulations, and continual tech improvements, not just promises from AV companies.

    Autonomous driving isn’t perfect, but it’s evolving fast. If the industry can balance innovation with responsibility, the next few years will be a turning point.

    Methodology

    This study leveraged the NHTSA CrashStats, NHTSA ADS-Equipped Vehicle Crashes, and The Robot Report to compare the accident rate of human driving vs. automated vehicles. Additionally, it referenced the 2023 U.S. Department of Transportation Highly Automated Systems Safety Center of Excellence report to understand the most common ADS disengagement causal factors.

    This story was produced by The General and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

  • How to Buy a  Million Life Insurance Policy, and When You Need it

    How to Buy a $1 Million Life Insurance Policy, and When You Need it


    Understanding the cost of a million-dollar life insurance policy can be pivotal in securing your family’s financial future. But have you ever wondered just how accessible or costly such a policy might be?