The Buena Vida Podcast
Welcome to the Buena Vida Podcast!
Formerly known as the ERS Walk & Talk Podcast, the Buena Vida Podcast is brought to you by the Employees Retirement System of Texas (ERS). This podcast is designed to support state employees and employees of higher education institutions who receive benefits through our program.
In each episode, we explore topics that promote well-being, health, and balance, featuring expert guests, insightful discussions, and practical tips for living a healthier, happier life. From mindfulness and stress management to fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness, we’ve got you covered!
Our podcast library also includes all previous episodes from the ERS Walk & Talk Podcast (dating back to 2021), so you can catch up on all the great content while enjoying the fresh direction of Buena Vida — the good life.
Subscribe today and start taking steps toward living your best life!
The Buena Vida Podcast
Melanie Odums: This episode could save you & your family a lot of money!
Lacy visits with Melanie Odums from the non-profit Trellis Company about new information that can have a huge impact your financial health. If you have been making payments on student loan debt over the years while employed by a state agency (or any governmental entity), a public school or institute of higher educations, or a non-profit, you might be eligible for loan forgiveness from the federal government. There have been temporary changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, making even more people eligible for loan forgiveness. But borrowers must apply to the U.S. Department of Education before October 31, 2022, to take advantage of these temporary, more relaxed rules.
Melanie Odums is an Accredited Financial Counselor and has been working in the financial aid industry for 17 years. She has had a variety of roles in financial aid administration and loan servicing, including working one-on-one with college students and families. Through this work she has helped many individuals understand and navigate the financial aid process, their student loans, and their personal finances. She has a bachelor’s degree in business management from Texas State University.
Resources mentioned in the podcast:
Upcoming webinars can be found at the ERS Wellness Events Calendar
Trellis webpage with more resources and links
Text Questions to: (512) 359-8838