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  • CDC team responsible for contraception guidelines is cut : Shots

    CDC team responsible for contraception guidelines is cut : Shots


    The CDC team responsible for aggregating and disseminating best practices around contraception has been cut.

    The CDC team responsible for aggregating and disseminating best practices around contraception has been cut.

    Liudmila Chernetska/iStockphoto/Getty Images


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    Liudmila Chernetska/iStockphoto/Getty Images

    To most people, the eight-person team was indistinguishable from the hundreds of other scientists and researchers cut in April during the mass firings at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

    But for many clinicians who specialize in women’s health, losing the team responsible for the CDC’s contraception guidelines was a devastating blow to women’s health.

    “ I just remember feeling like — of all the things — I think contraception shouldn’t be controversial,” says Dr. Angeline Ti, a family physician in the Atlanta, Georgia area who specializes in reproductive healthcare.

    The team was responsible for aggregating and disseminating best practices around contraception in a set of guidelines called U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use.

    “I knew that things were gonna happen at CDC, but I thought that these guidelines were so important,” says Ti. She says she uses the guidelines “pretty much every time” she sees a patient for contraceptive care.

    Other doctors describe feeling equally shocked. “I mean, there is no other resource that is doing this,” says Dr. Andrea Braden, an obstetrician in Atlanta, Georgia. “All the OB-GYN’s use it.”

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services building is seen on March 27, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

    Representatives from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Trump administration did not explain why the CDC team was cut. It was eliminated in April as part of the reduction of the Women’s Health and Fertility Branch of the Division of Reproductive Health.

    NPR reached out to HHS for comment on this story, but did not receive a response.

     An indispensable app

    Busy doctors who are seeing many patients, says Braden, simply do not have time to comb through all the latest medical research. So, the CDC team made recommendations available in an app that doctors could download and easily reference with questions about contraception, including how to navigate the topic for patients with specific conditions and diseases. It was downloaded 440,000 times, according to the CDC.

    “The app was just a game changer for us,” says Braden. “That was very clearly organized, really easy to digest, and it was such a nice quick reference for us. It was a resource that we all trusted intuitively.”

    The current guidelines are still accessible, while the team charged with updating them no longer exists.

    Doctors caution that even though the recommendations were issued relatively recently, without careful monitoring they will soon be out of date. “ Medicine is not static,” says Dr. Deva Sharma, a hematologist who said the guidelines are a critical part of her medical practice. “It’s constantly evolving and improving.”

    The team issued guidelines most recently in 2024. One example of a change that Braden says had a significant impact on her conversations with her patients is around recommendations for breastfeeding mothers using birth control. The new guidelines for the first time acknowledged that some contraception can jeopardize milk supply in nursing mothers.

    This update, she says, represented a sea change in a way of thinking about the importance of empowering patients to make their own decisions about breastfeeding. “ That was such an important aspect of the update,” says Braden. “It helped us guide our practice, rather than tell people what they need after they have a baby. It really put the patient at the center of the conversation.”

    For some patients and doctors dealing with specific conditions, conversations about contraception can be matters of life or death. Sharma specializes in treating women with Sickle Cell disease — an inherited red blood cell disorder — which puts patients at a much greater risk of life threatening complications in pregnancy than people without the disease.

    Sharma calls the termination of the CDC team “detrimental to women’s health,” and also recalls vividly the moment she found out when a colleague sent her a message. “I remember just feeling overwhelmed and devastated,” says Sharma.

    In the recent guidelines, the CDC team changed recommendations for women with Sickle Cell Disease, which already puts patients at increased risk for blood clots. Doctors who treat this disease say they now rarely prescribe certain forms of contraception to their patients due to new evidence suggesting these kinds of treatments can create an even greater risk.

    Braden says she is still feeling confused as to why such a valuable resource was eliminated. “ I don’t understand,” she says “Why them? Why this sector of medicine? This is a waste.”

    She warns that doctors will not be able to compensate for the medical updates that this guide provides. “ Medicine changes so quickly and it is very difficult to keep up with all of it,” she warns. “New data comes out — new research comes out — and we find out that there’s a better way to do things. Contraceptive medicine is no different from that.”

    Missing treatment options are hard to measure 

    Many patients will not necessarily know about medical updates they do not benefit from, but Teonna Woolford is one patient who does understand the utility of the CDC’s guidelines around contraception.

    For patients with sickle cell disease, fertility care is about reproductive justice

    Born with Sickle Cell Disease, Woolford started a non-profit, Sickle Cell Reproductive Education Directive, that advocates for patients like herself. Woolford says the disease is often characterized by uncertainty and difficulty in making hard decisions around treatment.

    “Having the guidelines was really like a proactive approach to addressing contraception,” says Woolford. “There are a lot of knowledge and research gaps on this subject.”

    Sickle Cell Disease disproportionately affects people of color, a group that Woolford notes has not historically enjoyed parity in reproductive justice. “The removal of the CDC team to me just reminds me of darker times in our history when people of color were oppressed,” she says.

    Black women in the United States have disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality.

    Dr. Braden sees the team’s elimination as a setback to women everywhere. “It really hurts those of us in women’s health — to target something like contraceptives.” says Braden. “This is basic healthcare for OBGYNs and it was really defeating. I would say I felt angry and sad and confused.”

    She and other doctors point out that many women in the U.S. can no longer legally terminate pregnancy. They say that makes it especially important for them to be able to make an informed choice about the best ways to prevent becoming pregnant in the first place.

    “ Bodily autonomy has been taken away from women in various states,” says Dr. Sharma, who practices in Tennessee — a state with strict abortion laws. “We’ve slashed people’s rights to make decisions,” she says. “Now we’re taking away evidence-based recommendations.”

  • Max Fried has settled in quickly with the Yankees

    Max Fried has settled in quickly with the Yankees


    Last weekend when the AL East-leading New York Yankees (then 30-19) visited Coors Field to play the historically bad Colorado Rockies (then 8-42), a sweep seemed inevitable.

    Reality hit on Friday night when RHP Tanner Gordon led the Rockies to a surprising 3-2 win.

    The next day, however, Max Fried would set things right as he dazzled over 7 ⅓ innings, striking out seven and giving up six hits that would result in only one run. As he told media after the game, his fastball was working, and he used it aggressively to shut down a feeble Rockies offense.

    Fried was also in top defensive form, picking off two base runners at first.

    On Sunday, Fried answered a few questions in the Coors Field Visiting Clubhouse about adjusting to Yankee Stadium, the increased vertical movement of his sinker, and what it would take to get him back in the box.

    (This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity.)

    Renee Dechert: This is your first season with the Yankees. Everything indicates you’ve taken to it pretty well. What kind of adjustments have you had to make for pitching at Yankee Stadium?

    Max Fried: Physically, not too much. I feel like I’m just being myself. I’m not trying to do anything too crazy, realizing it’s the same game, and I just want to be myself and not try to be anything else. But as far as the transition, being around these guys in this clubhouse has made it really easy. They’ve welcomed me in, and it’s been a seamless transition so far.

    RD: When you say “Be yourself,” what do you mean by that?

    MF: Just be the same person and the player that I’ve been in my career. I’m not trying to do more or trying to be more than what I’ve already done.

    RD: So far this season, you seem to be using your sinker more and your curveball less. Can you talk a little bit about that change?

    MF: It’s not anything that’s, I guess, premeditated. It’s just kind of what’s happened. I’ve never gone into a season or a game saying, “I’m going to throw my curveball less,” or “I’m going to throw a certain pitch more.” It’s just when, when you get out there, sometimes, you lean on one over the other.

    RD: Your sinker is showing a significant change in vertical movement. Have you made adjustments to get that?

    MF: Yeah, I’ve made a few adjustments when I came over, and they seem to be working.

    RD: Can you talk a bit about that?

    MF: it’s just more of a grip change. They showed me a grip that was a little bit better for me, and I’ve just been trying to throw it, and it’s been getting some results right now.

    RD: You’ve won three gold gloves. We saw some of your defensive work yesterday, when you picked off two runners. Can you talk a bit about how defense became so much a part of your game and your development in this area?

    MF: I grew up playing positions. I played first base and outfield growing up, and being an athlete, just taking pride in my defense was something that I always really enjoyed. And then when I converted to just being a pitcher, it was my way of trying to still have some athleticism on the field, and also realizing that fielding your position and holding runners and things of that nature is a real benefit, especially to pitching, getting deep into games, and trying to win. So just keeping that emphasis,

    RD: In 2021, you won a Silver Slugger, which suggests you’re pretty good on the other side of the plate.

    Seth Lugo told me last year he feels like he has an advantage over a lot of younger pitchers because of his experience as a hitter. Have you had a similar experience?

    MF: I would definitely say it gives you perspective. When you’re standing in the box and you’re facing a major-league pitcher and you’re seeing what it looks like from that end, it just gives you perspective on how hard it is actually. So that’s the one thing that I do miss, is being able to step in the box and see what it looks like to give you that reassurance that what you’re doing on the mound is really hard to do and really hard to hit.

    RD: Do you think there’s ever a chance you’ll get to hit again. I know Germán Márquez misses it a lot.

    MF: Maybe if there’s a certain situation where we burn every bench guy and we get into a lot of extra innings and something crazy happens, but I’m not expecting it, but if it ever happens, I’ll be ready.

    RD: You went to high school with Jack Flaherty and Lucas Giolito. Did you keep up with those guys?

    MF: Yeah, absolutely. We can keep in touch all the time. I follow every one of their starts. I make sure when, when they’re pitching, I check the box score and send the messages and stuff like that.

    RD: What’s it been like, watching the three of you evolve in the way that you have?

    MF: It’s really cool. You realize that it’s rare, and something that not a lot of people kind of have, but we try to make the most of it, or at least just support each other. You know, it’s a hard game, and it’s hard to do it, so just to give our friends support. It’s important.

    RD: Last one from me. What’s the best pitch you’ve shown so far this season?

    MF: Wow. Best pitch I’ve thrown this season [long pause]. I don’t know if I have a single pitch, not one that stands out to me the way it was like, “That was the one.”

    RD: Can you think of one?

    MF: There’s one in the past. It was the first glove-side two seamer that I had thrown, and I had struck out Starling Marte.

    RD: Can you take me through it?

    MF: I want to say was 2023? I threw it, and it was the first time that I had gotten it called, and I executed it, and I struck him out. And it was like a moment of “That, that felt really good.”

  • There’s a Generational Shift Underway With Financial Concerns – Life Happens

    There’s a Generational Shift Underway With Financial Concerns – Life Happens


    Most people are not immune to the worries of the wallet—big and small. From paying for monthly bills all the way to paying for long-term care and everything in between, people from Gen Z to Boomers told us what they are concerned about financially.

    Turns out, saving retirement is a key financial worry, with 44% of Americans expressing concern, according to the 2024 Insurance Barometer Study, from Life Happens and LIMRA. This has been true for every year since the study began in 2011.

    It’s Millennials’ Turn

    While there hasn’t been a major change retirement concern, what has shifted is who is worrying the most about a range of financial issues. This year, Millennials expressed the highest level of financial concern on nine of the 15 specific financial matters we asked them about. Just two years ago, Gen X was the most concerned on 14 of the 15. A generational shift is clearly underway.

    If we take a look at the key financial concerns across all generations, we see the gap between these two generations:

    Millennials vs Gen X

    Having enough money for retirement:                                                       54% vs 48%

    saving for an emergency fund:                                                                   45% vs 38%

    supporting myself if I couldn’t work due to a disabling illness/injury:   45% vs 39%

    paying for long-term care if I couldn’t care for myself:                            40% vs 37%

    paying for medical expenses in case of an illness/injury:                        40% vs 34%

    And yet, one of the things that can bring them financial peace of mind—life insurance—is something that fewer Millennials own (50%) than their older Gen X counterparts (55%). So why don’t Millennials have coverage? Well, 42% say it’s too expensive, but 46% overestimate the true cost by 5 times or more. And it’s not surprising they were so far off with on price, as almost half (47%) admit they used a wild guess or used a gut feeling to estimate the cost.

    There’s Coverage for That

    Additionally, some of their other concerns can be addressed by other types of insurance coverage. For example, disability insurance is there if you are unable to work due to a disabling illness or injury (a concern for 45% of Millennials), but only 19% of Millennials say they own it, and only 20% say they are very/extremely knowledgeable about.

    And this year’s Barometer Study also looked at combination products, specifically life insurance combined with long-term care. This type of coverage could allay concerns that Millennials have about both leaving their family in the lurch financially if they died (38%) and paying for long term care (40%).

    An easy solution is to explore info on these products: life insurance, disability insurance and long-term care, and then talk to an insurance professional who can help you find a solution in your budget. Plus, that conversation is at no cost and no obligation. If you don’t have an someone to work with, you can use our Agent Locator here.

  • The Only Guaranteed Way For Middle Class People To Become Wealthy

    The Only Guaranteed Way For Middle Class People To Become Wealthy


    Rich Habits
    If you find value in these articles, please share them with your inner circle and encourage them to Sign Up for my Rich Habits Daily Tips/Articles. No one succeeds on their own. Thank You!

    In my five-year Rich Habits Study I discovered four ways the self-made millionaires in my study accumulated their wealth:

    1. Saver-Investor Path
    2. Big Company Climber Path
    3. Virtuoso Path
    4. Dreamer-Entrepreneur Path

    The Saver-Investor-Millionaires in my study forged three important habits, which enabled them to accumulate an average of $3,260,000:

    • Habit #1 Frugal Spending – Frugal does not mean being cheap with your money. Frugal means spending your money on the lowest price, highest quality product or service available.
    • Habit #2 Saving 20% or More of Your Income – This requires that you maintain a standard of living that allows you to live off of 80% of your net pay.
    • Habit #3 Bucket System for Savings – Identifying specific savings priorities and devoting a percentage of your savings to each bucket: Wedding, First Home, Emergency Fund, College Savings, Investments, Retirement, etc.

    In my book, Effort-Less Wealth – Smart Money Habits At Every Stage of Your Life, I share the 23 Smart Money Habits of the Saver-Investor millionaires in my study. These habits guarantee financial independence and wealth.

    The Saver-Investors in my study used these smart money habits, which helped them put financial success on autopilot. Because they followed these habits diligently, they were able to automatically build wealth over many years. Over those many years, their investments appreciated, dividend income accrued and interest income on their investments accumulated automatically.

    Individuals who follow these three smart money habits are able to grow their wealth, even when they are asleep – which happened to be a common goal among all of the millionaires in my Rich Habits Study.

    Conversely, those who live beyond their means wind up accumulating debt. The interest on that debt also happens to grow, while they are sleeping.

    Every time they wake up, they are eight hours poorer.

    If you want to build wealth the easiest, most certain way possible, the Saver-Investor Path is the way to go. It doesn’t require any advanced degrees. It doesn’t require that you take enormous risks. And it doesn’t require that you work oppressive work hours, which negatively impacts your family and friends.

    For would-be Saver-Investor millionaires, accumulating wealth requires that you make a habit of making “saving” the first “bill” you pay with every paycheck and then learning to live off of what’s left of your paycheck. When you make a decision to save first, this forces you to reduce your cost of living, so that you are able to reach your goal of saving 20% or more of your net pay. This allows you to put your savings to work by prudently and consistently investing those savings, so your savings can grow – even while you sleep!

  • How to Keep Momentum Post-SSD

    How to Keep Momentum Post-SSD


    You have been crushing our 8 week Spring Slim Down Challenge! We can’t believe how fast this challenge went by! As the challenge comes to an end this Sunday May 4th, you might be wondering what to do next or how do I not lose this momentum?

    I have just the tips you need to stay on track and hit those goals! Plus, a BRAND NEW challenge, details at the end!!

    1. Set New Goals

    After completing the Spring Slim Down challenge, take some time to reflect on your achievements and set new goals for yourself. Whether it’s improving your strength, increasing your endurance, or trying a new video in MOVE, having clear goals will help you stay motivated.

    2. Establish a Routine

    Creating a daily routine that includes time for exercise and healthy eating can help you stay consistent with your healthy habits. Make exercise a priority by scheduling it into your day, just like any other appointment.

    3. Accountability Groups

    Keep up with your Accountability group! Just because the challenge ended doesn’t mean your group check ins have to! Having someone or a group to hold you accountable can make a big difference in staying on track. 

    4. Focus on Nutrition

    Remember that exercise is just one part of the equation. Paying attention to your nutrition is equally as important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods to fuel your body and support your fitness goals.

    5. Celebrate Your Progress

    Don’t forget to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Recognize the hard work and dedication you’ve put in during our Spring Slim Down challenge and continue to celebrate your progress as you move forward.

    What To Do Next

    Join my NEW Move in May Challenge! This May, we’re ditching the all-or-nothing mindset and focusing on one simple, powerful habit: walking daily. Move in May is your chance to commit to 20 minutes or 1 mile a day and feel the difference—physically and mentally.

    Let’s walk into a healthy summer together—one step at a time. Get the Move In May Calendar!

    By following these tips and staying committed to your health and fitness goals, you can keep the momentum going post-SSD and continue to see progress in your journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Remember, small habits lead to big changes!



  • Do I really need to use accounting Software?

    Do I really need to use accounting Software?


    This will really depend on the kind of business you have however an accounting software will make you like easier and keep your financials organised. No one wants to deal with a giant shoebox filled with receipts and invoices at the end of the financial year.


    An accounting software helps you to complete everything from the basic recording of income and expenses through to producing financial statements. These systems can save you (or your accountant) a lot of time which in turn saves you money and can improve the decision making within your business.
    There other factors to consider like whether you have a stable internet connection, if you don’t a cloud based accounting software may not be the best option for you. Cloud based accounting is very popular now as you have the ability to access the software from anywhere at anytime.


    If you have a rental a spreadsheet may do the job for you. You could consider a free software like Wave, zipbooks or Akaunting. These provide options from very basic reports to more comprehensive dashboards and all have free options.

    4 Questions to help you find the right software

    1. What does your business need?

    List the accounting tasks that you need the software to complete. If you are a freelancer or sole trader that tasks you need it to do will be far less than a large more complex business.

    2. Will the Software grow with my business?

    Think about how your business will look in the future. Can you upgrade the software to more features that you require later. A one-man band may look to subcontract later and hire a larger team which may require the ability to run more comprehensive reports to track financials.

    3. Is the software easy to use?I

    This is very important especially if you aren’t overly tech savvy. Software with a lot of features can be overly complex to use. You don’t want a software that requires an accounting or IT degree to use and takes ages to send an invoice as there is so many things to complete before being able to send it.

    4. Is the customer support any good?

    It is always good to check online reviews to ensure you will be supported if something goes wrong. They don’t have to have a phone number however an email address or chat function that is actually monitored is helpful especially if they send detailed instructions to fix issues like Xero does.

    Choosing the right accounting package is important as you don’t want to have to change software in a years time. This can end up costing you more as you may need an accountant to setup new software and import all relevant data from your old system to setup the next one.

    We have exciting news that a new accounting software firm has entered the NZ market in that last couple of weeks. Check out our next article to see the packages that they are offering to the NZ market. This may tick all the boxes that you need in a software or it could be perfect for someone you know who is starting a new business. While we are big advocates for Xero as it is so easy to use, we are happy to let the small business community know about other software that may suit their needs better.

  • What Is Roadside Assistance? | The General

    What Is Roadside Assistance? | The General




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  • HSA Rollover Rules

    HSA Rollover Rules


    Do you have an old health savings account (HSA) that is just gathering dust? Understanding the HSA rollover rules can help you make the mont of that account.

    While you’ll never lose an old HSA, even when you leave a previous employer, leaving your account untouched isn’t the best idea. Taking advantage of an HSA rollover can put you back in charge of your money. Let’s explore the HSA rollover rules and guidelines.

    What Is an HSA?

    What Is an HSA?

    A health savings account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged savings account that you can use to pay medical expenses that your health insurance doesn’t cover.

    Usually, an HSA is set up by an employer. You can contribute pre-tax income to the account and withdraw it as needed to pay for doctor visits, dental services, and more.

    To open an HSA you will need to have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). The IRS sets strict guidelines on how much you can contribute to the HSA and what you can use the funds for.

    What Are the Benefits of an HSA

    Tax-free status is one of the biggest benefits to HSAs. You can contribute pre-tax dollars to the account and take distributions for qualifying expenses without ever paying income tax.

    Plus, funds in the account can be invested and grow tax-free, and the funds never expire.

    Even if you lose your employment or HDHP insurance, you get to keep your HSA account. At the age of 65, you can take distributions with no penalty.

    👉 Learn more: Unravel the complexities of the tax system and understand how do taxes work for individuals with our straightforward explanation.

    What Is Covered By an HSA?

    HSA funds can be used for a wide variety of health-related services, including services that insurance may not traditionally cover, such as:

    • Infertility treatments
    • Acupuncture
    • Hearing aids
    • Dentures
    • Childbirth classes
    • First aid kits
    • Acne treatment

    For the complete list of expenses covered (and those not covered), see the IRS’s 2022 Medical and Dental Expenses publication.

    🏥 Learn more: Discover how to secure health insurance while self-employed with our step-by-step guide tailored for freelancers and entrepreneurs.

    Basic HSA Rollover Rules

    A HSA rollover occurs when you move funds from an old HSA into a new one. If you want to roll over your existing HSA funds into a different HSA, there are two important HSA rollover rules to remember.

    1. You can complete an HSA rollover only once every 12 months
    2. You have 60 days from disbursement to deposit funds into an HSA

    If you violate rule 2 above, you’ll be hit with a 20% early HSA withdrawal penalty, and the money will be considered income.

    Let’s say you take a $5,000 withdrawal, and your distribution is taxed at 22%. Your penalty would be $1,000 (20% x $5,000), and your tax total would be $1,100 (22% x $5,000). This leaves with only $2,900 after penalties and taxes.

    It’s also worth noting what is not required when completing an HSA rollover.

    • You do not have to be currently covered under an HDHP
    • You do not need to be currently eligible to make HSA contributions
    • Rollovers do not count towards yearly contribution limits
    • Rollovers do not count as income

    The IRS sets the above rules and regulations. Individual HSA providers may have their own HSA rollover rules.

    How Does an HSA Rollover Work?

    Completing an HSA rollover is straightforward, but you will have to complete a few steps.

    🏃‍♂️ Step 1: Choose a new HSA provider

    You can roll an HSA over to an existing HSA or open a new one. Make sure to research the HSA provider thoroughly and inquire about any limitations or fees associated with a rollover.

    🏃‍♂️ Step 2: Initiate the rollover

    You’ll need to contact your old HSA provider (or plan administrator) to initiate the rollover. The provider will then issue you a check for the full value of your account. This process can take several days.

    🏃‍♂️ Step 3: Deposit the check

    Once the check is cut, the clock starts on the 60-day rule. Check with the new HSA provider to see how they accept funds (i.e., can you sign over the check, or do you need to deposit the funds and then transfer). If you haven’t completed step 1 yet, you’ll need to do that ASAP.

    Keep in mind that HSA funds won’t be available for you to use during the rollover process.

    HSA Rollover Rules Versus Transfer Rules

    One alternative to an HSA rollover is an HSA transfer. Transferring funds from one HSA to another often has fewer limitations than a rollover. Here are some key differences.

    HSA Rollover HSA Transfer
    Funds are issued directly to you Funds are transferred between providers
    Allowed 1 rollover per 12 months No limitations on the frequency
    Usually requires the old account to be emptied and closed out Partial transfers are possible
    Fee-free Sometimes comes with a fee
    Potential tax penalties if you exceed 60 days It can take several days to several weeks to complete
    Can take several days to several weeks to complete Often processes quicker than a rollover

    On paper, an HSA transfer is preferable, especially if you have multiple HSAs that you are looking to consolidate. However, some providers don’t allow transfers, and others charge fees for transfers, which can make a rollover the better option.

    Should I Roll Over My HSA?

    If you have an old HSA from a previous employer sitting unused, it may be worthwhile to look into completing a rollover. However, you should consider a few things before initiating that rollover.

    Account balance is a major factor. If your old HSA balance is low, it might be easier to simply spend the funds.

    Account fees are another important consideration. If your old account charges hefty fees, then a rollover makes sense. But if your new account has higher fees, leaving the old account intact might be the better choice.

    One more point of consideration is account options, specifically investment options. Different providers offer different investments and have different thresholds and limitations for investing. If you are getting good returns with your old HSA, you might want to keep the funds there.

    Finally, you’ll want to evaluate the timing of the rollover. If you have an upcoming need for medical services, you may want to postpone your rollover. Or if you have multiple HSAs you wish to consolidate, the once-a-year limit may mean postponing some of your rollovers.

    Just remember, if you do proceed with a rollover, you need to follow all the HSA rollover rules to avoid costly penalties.

    FAQs

    Am I Eligible to Contribute to an HSA?

    The IRS has strict rules on who can contribute to an HSA and how much can be contributed. Here is the 2023 summary. This HSA contribution eligibility is often cited in rollover and account usage guidelines.
    To be eligible to contribute to an HSA, you need to have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) and not be covered under any other health plans. 
    You cannot contribute to an HSA if you can be claimed as a dependent or you are currently receiving Medicare benefits.

    How Much Can I Contribute to an HSA?

    This depends on your age and whether or not your HDHP is a single or family plan.
    For 2023, the limits are as follows:
    – $3,850 for self-only
    – $7,750 for family coverage
    – $4,850 for self-only or $8,750 for family coverage if you are 55 or older
    HSA rollovers do not count towards annual contribution limits.

    Do I Need to Report HSA Rollovers on My Taxes?

    No. HSA rollovers are not distributions and should not be recorded as distributions, income, or contributions.
    You will need to report all other HSA contributions and withdrawals for the year. 
    If you exceed the 60-day rollover completion window, then you will need to report the rollover as income and pay taxes accordingly.

    Can I Transfer Funds From My Retirement Account to My HSA?

    Yes. Once in your lifetime, you can move funds from a Roth IRA to an HSA, but only if you are currently eligible to contribute to an HSA. Transferred funds do count towards your annual contribution limits.
    You cannot transfer funds from a 401k to an HSA.

    What Happens if I Lose My HDHP?

    If your insurance no longer qualifies as “high-deductible,” then you can no longer contribute to your HSA.
    You will still retain access to your HSA and can initiate rollovers and manage investments as needed. You can also still take qualified medical-related distributions, even though you don’t have an HDHP.

    What Happens to Unused HSA Funds?

    Nothing. HSA funds remain in your account indefinitely, even if you leave your employer. Depending on your provider’s account fees and investment options, your balance may continue to increase or decrease without you making additional contributions or taking distributions.
    Beginning at age 65, you can start taking non-medical distributions.

    What Is the Difference Between an FSA and an HSA?

    Both HSAs and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) allow you to spend pre-tax dollars on eligible medical expenses. However, the requirements and limitations are different. 
    You do not need an HDHP to qualify for an FSA. An entire year’s worth of funds are available at the beginning of the year. 
    On the FSA downside, funds do not roll over each year. Any money you don’t use by the end of the year is forfeited. FSA funds cannot be invested either, so there is no tax-free growth. FSAs are self-only accounts with smaller contribution limits.

    Can I Ever Cash Out My HSA?

    Yes, you can cash out your HSA anytime; however, there may be penalties.
    Distributions for non-medical expenses are taxable and will incur a 20% penalty. So, if you withdraw $10,00 from an HSA, you’ll get hit with a $2,000 penalty plus income tax.
    There’s an exception for those 65 or older. At age 65, you can take penalty-free distributions from your HSA. Non-medical withdrawals at this age will still count as income, though.

    What Happens to My HSA If I Die?

    If your surviving spouse is the beneficiary, then account ownership will be transferred to them. The transfer is not taxable, and they can continue using funds for their own medical expenses and, at age 65, begin taking penalty-free non-medical distributions.
    When the account’s beneficiary is not your spouse, the account ceases to be an HSA. Funds become taxable income to your beneficiaries. There is no 20% early withdrawal penalty.

  • How to Start a Yoga Business

    How to Start a Yoga Business


    You know that feeling when you walk out of a yoga class and everything feels better? Your mind is calm, your body feels alive, and you feel focused on what really matters. Here’s a thought: what if you could turn that feeling into something bigger—not just for yourself, but for others? 

    Whether you dream about teaching yoga, creating online yoga content, or even opening your own studio, there’s a space for you in the yoga world. The exciting part? You don’t need to follow just one path to build a yoga career. Just as you would sequence the ideal yoga flow for yourself, you can mix, match, explore, and shape your yoga career in a way that fits your life, personality, and goals. 

    The yoga industry is thriving right now. It’s a $107 billion + industry with big momentum expected through 2030, offering lots of opportunity for passionate fitness instructors,  yoga enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs. So, if you’re wondering whether you could make yoga part of your career, here’s your roadmap to getting started! 

    Why Becoming a Certified Yoga Instructor Is Your Best First Step 

    First things first: before you start designing your dream studio, prioritize earning your yoga instructor certification. A solid certification program helps you build the confidence, knowledge, and skills to safely and effectively guide others on the mat. Without proper training, it’s tough to re-create the effective, nourishing experiences your favorite instructor guides you through. 

    A good yoga certification program teaches you everything from proper alignment and breathwork to sequencing and how to hold space for all types of students. AFPA’s new Yoga Instructor Certification offers a foundational, flexible, and affordable option you can complete from home at your own pace. If you have a full-time career or a household of kids to manage or live far away from an in-person training studio—or all of the above—this certification can be your launchpad to a fulfilling yoga career. It’s designed to fit your busy life. 

    The Many Possibilities of a Career in Yoga 

    With a yoga instructor certification under your belt, there are so many exciting paths you can follow, and each offers its own advantages. What matters is choosing the path you want that aligns with your goals, personality, and lifestyle. 

    Many yoga instructors choose to teach at an existing studio or gym part-time, ranging from everything from CorePower Yoga to your local YMCA. You can offer private or small group yoga sessions, working with clients either in their homes or your own small space. Or you could rent a shared space inside a wellness center, food co-op, or community center and host your own classes and workshops. 

    If you love creating, you might become a yoga content creator and use the social following you have on YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok, to offer online classes or paid digital products. If you’re the entrepreneurial type, you could open your own small yoga studio or start a franchise location. No matter which direction you choose, remember that each is valid and full of possibility. You are capable of creating a yoga career that feels authentic to you. 

    What You Need to Know About Opening a Yoga Studio 

    Wondering how to start a yoga studio? If you have the entrepreneurial itch and must scratch it, the best way to get started is do your research and write a yoga studio business plan. Before you start designing your dream space, thoroughly understand whether you have a market, what the competition looks like, lease costs and terms, business insurance, your revenue model, what type of equipment you’ll need, how to staff the studio, and how you will market your business. Take a business course, familiarize yourself with your local chamber of commerce, talk to other local business owners, and consider hosting a few “yoga in the park” sessions and ask attendees if they’d be interested in joining a yoga studio. 

    Yoga studio set up costs can range from $15,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on your location, space, and how big you want to go. Retail spaces in the U.S. have an average cost of about $200/square foot, so a 1,000 square foot yoga studio retail space might cost around $200,000. On top of this, commercial leases are often at least two years with large upfront security deposit. Consider finances carefully before jumping into a large studio, and remember that you can always scale up as your business grows. 

    Renting a Yoga Space or Joining a Yoga Studio Team 

    If owning a studio sounds overwhelming, renting space or joining an established studio’s team might be a better fit. Renting space from an established studio or gym gives you flexibility and control without the burden of ownership. You can host your own classes, workshops, or events, and only pay for the time or space you use. 

    Don’t want to manage your own business? Working as an employee or contractor at a yoga studio means you get to focus on teaching, connecting with students, and growing your skills without worrying about marketing, sales, and business. Many instructors (especially part-time ones) love this setup because they can devote more of their time to doing what they love—being on the mat and teaching. 

    If you choose to rent independently, using yoga business software like Mindbody or Acuity can help you manage class bookings, payments, and client communications. Even if you’re starting small, having reliable systems in place makes a big difference. 

    Teaching Private Yoga or Specialized Sessions 

    For some instructors, the magic happens in private or semi-private settings. Teaching yoga one-on-one or to small groups can be rewarding and financially sustainable. You can work in clients’ homes, corporate wellness programs, schools, senior centers, or even run specialized workshops. This path offers freedom and flexibility to create a schedule that works for you, as well as the potential ability to charge premium rates for customized experiences. Plus, you get to build strong, personal connections with your clients and help them with their specific goals. 

    Becoming a Yoga Content Creator or Online Instructor 

    Do you love yoga but also want to become a digital creator? You can start an online yoga business by offering virtual classes, building a YouTube channel like Yoga With Adriene has done, running a subscription platform, growing a social media following, and collaborating with wellness brands for partnership opportunities. This exciting path opens up creative and entrepreneurial possibilities that reach far beyond your local community. 

    Creating yoga content online isn’t easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding if you enjoy connecting with people and sharing your expertise through video, audio, or written content. Plus, the potential reach allows you to touch lives all around the world. 

    AFPA Yoga Instructor Certification

    Explore AFPA’s Yoga Instructor Certification Today 

    Gain the skills, resources, and confidence to integrate yoga into your life and career.

    Branding Your Yoga Business — From Names to Logos to Marketing 

    No matter what path you choose, creating a strong, consistent brand matters. Your yoga business name should be easy to remember and align with your mission or style. Do you want to highlight your personal story, your location, or a particular philosophy or theme? A good yoga business logo visually represents your vibe and helps people instantly recognize your offerings. But don’t get stuck here—you can start simple and refine over time. 

    When it comes to yoga business marketing, focus on the basics: a simple website, active social media profiles, and yoga instructor business cards you can hand out or post in your community. You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on advertising. Instead, focus on being authentic, clear, and consistent. 

    Is Yoga a Profitable Business? 

    Here’s the big question: is yoga a profitable business? The answer is, it depends—on your location, your offerings, your audience, and how you structure your income streams. Some instructors teach part-time and earn a few hundred dollars a month. Others build full-time incomes by combining group classes, private clients, online content, workshops, and even product collaborations. Still others join a yoga studio franchise, benefiting from established brand recognition and support. 

    The average small fitness or wellness studio in the U.S. earns around $78,000 per year in revenue. Top studios and successful online creators can bring in much more. But remember: profitability isn’t just about income. It’s about managing costs, balancing workload, and sustaining your passion over time. 

    What Licenses or Permits Do You Need to Teach Yoga? 

    In most areas, you don’t need a specific license to teach yoga. (Though, an online yoga certification equips you with the skills to start teaching!) But if you’re running a business, you do need to operate legally. So, what license do I need to open a yoga studio or work independently? 

    You’ll need to register your business, get liability insurance, and comply with local zoning and health regulations. Requirements vary by state and city, so it’s smart to check with a local small business association or an accountant who understands wellness businesses. Taking care of the legal side may not feel glamorous, but it’s essential to protect yourself and build a professional reputation. 

    Avoiding Common Pitfalls (and Keeping Your Passion Alive) 

    Let’s be honest: passion alone doesn’t pay the bills. Many new yoga professionals make mistakes like undercharging, overbooking themselves, skipping marketing, or burning out. Avoid letting the same happen to with preparation and a growth mindset. Lean into learning and ask for help when you need it, whether that’s from studio owners, other instructors, other business owners, or professional advisors. And above all, stay connected to your “why”—the reason you fell in love with yoga in the first place. When you keep learning, experimenting, and adapting, you create a career that can evolve alongside you for years to come. 

    Here’s what I want you to remember: the possibilities for yoga instructors are endless. You can teach part-time, run online classes, open or franchise a studio, or create inspiring content. You can start slow, test ideas, and shape a path that feels authentic and sustainable for you. 

    The yoga industry is wide open, full of people hungry for connection, healing, and growth. There’s space for your unique voice, your passion, and your gifts. So, what’s the first small step you’re ready to take today? 

    Shana Walsh, PhD, NBC-HWC, MCHES

    Reviewed by

    Shana Walsh, PhD, NBC-HWC, MCHES

    Dr. Shana Walsh earned her PhD from Baylor University where her research focused primarily on health behavior science, and specifically the theoretical underpinnings of why people make choices that either support or hinder their health. She is a former associate professor of health education and a practicing health coach. Dr. Walsh’s professional certifications include National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Master Certified Health Education Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Registered Yoga Teacher. 

    AFPA Yoga Instructor Certification

    Explore AFPA’s Yoga Instructor Certification Today 

    Gain the skills, resources, and confidence to integrate yoga into your life and career.

  • Business Growth using AI Tools

    Business Growth using AI Tools


    Next week I have a speaking engagement to share with a room of professionals about ‘AI’. It is such a big subject and everyone seems to be talking about it. It reminds me of back in the day when the Internet was in its infancy. All talk but not so much action.

    I thought it would be interesting for my readers to learn a little bit about what I have learned and how I am using AI to massively improve my productivity. I will split my presentation into sections on particular business functions. I will be focussing on:

    “How do I grow my business cost effectively when I just don’t have enough hours in the day?”

    Marketing – always more to do, never enough budget – and how do I stand out from the rest. AI is a game changer – especially for a start-up or Entrepreneur who is still trying to do a lot themselves.

    There is still a place for experience, creativity, and human emotion.

    When you think about ‘where should I start?’ consider what is the one bottleneck in your business that if you solved it – life would become easier.

    Below, I explore look at how AI tools are revolutionising marketing strategies, with examples of well-crafted prompts that maximise potential – so you can give it a try for yourself. (I might have had AI help me some what with the below). The most important thing to remember is to review what comes back, based on your own experience and who your audience is. Not everything produced by AI is factually correct or right for your brand.

    AI-Powered Content Creation

    AI tools like GPT-4 by OpenAI are transforming content creation. These tools generate high-quality content quickly, reducing the time and effort required for writing and editing.

    • Example Prompt: “Generate a 500-word blog post on the latest trends in digital marketing for small businesses, highlighting the impact of social media and SEO strategies.”
    • Benefits: Saves time, ensures consistency in tone, and allows marketers to focus on strategic tasks – but always check it.
    Enhanced Customer Segmentation

    AI algorithms analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and segment customers more accurately. This enables personalized marketing strategies that resonate better with target audiences.

    • Example Prompt: “Analyze our customer database to identify distinct segments based on purchasing behavior, demographics, and engagement levels.”
    • Benefits: Improves targeting and personalization, leading to higher conversion rates.
    Predictive Analytics for Campaign Optimization

    AI-driven predictive analytics tools forecast future trends based on historical data, helping marketers optimize their campaigns for better outcomes.

    • Example Prompt: “Predict the performance of our upcoming email marketing campaign based on past campaign data and suggest improvements.”
    • Benefits: Enhances campaign effectiveness, reduces wastage of resources, and improves ROI.
    Chatbots for Customer Engagement

    AI-powered chatbots provide instant customer support and engagement, improving user experience and freeing up human resources for more complex tasks.

    • Example Prompt: “Create a chatbot script that guides users through our product catalog and assists with common queries.”
    • Benefits: Enhances customer satisfaction, provides 24/7 support, and reduces response time.
    Social Media Monitoring and Sentiment Analysis

    AI tools monitor social media platforms to gauge public sentiment and gather insights about brand perception. This information helps in shaping marketing strategies and addressing customer concerns promptly.

    • Example Prompt: “Analyze social media mentions of our brand over the past month and provide a sentiment analysis report.”
    • Benefits: Improves brand management, identifies potential PR issues early, and enhances customer relationship management.
    Personalization of User Experience

    AI personalizes user experiences by recommending products, content, and services based on individual preferences and behavior.

    • Example Prompt: “Generate personalized product recommendations for each user based on their browsing and purchase history.”
    • Benefits: Increases customer satisfaction and loyalty, boosts sales, and enhances user engagement.
    Conclusion

    And there is so much more!  There are tools that help you craft content specifically designed to optimise for search (SEO) perhaps you could get it to help you craft the perfect brand promise, edit images or create great designs… If it is a bottleneck in your business then there is probably an AI tool that is changing the way we do business.

    It might be worth practicing. How you write / develop prompts is key… put yourself in the shoes of the reader.

    For more insights on how AI is transforming marketing and other industries, visit NaomiSimson.com.


    Also published on Medium.