Millions of Americans have their retirement savings invested in 401(k) plans, often with funds matched by their employer. Because of the matching, 401(k) plans are generally considered a no-brainer, but Daniel R. Solin, author of The Smartest 401(k) Book You'll Ever Read, visited with BC Radio and opened our eyes to some of the pitfalls of these plans. In a discussion that ranged from tax rates to fund management fees, Solin told us why these plans aren't always the best way for workers to invest and better yet, shared some tips about how we could do better for ourselves. If you don't listen to any other show this week, listen to this one, as Solin gives BC Radio's listeners some solid advice (the kind you'd pay a financial advisor for) about when and how to participate in a 401(k) and what other measures we might take to ensure ourselves a comfortable retirement. Pay attention.

Researcher and author David Ludwig, M.D. Ph.D. is a pediatrician and endocrinologist at Children's Hospital in Boston. Dr. Ludwig's primary interest is the problem of obesity in children, and with recent research indicating that obese children are at higher risk for certain diseases in adulthood, it makes sense that parents will want to get a handle on their childrens' eating behavior sooner rather than later. Citing the rampant junk food advertising aimed at children and the frequent lack of nutritious food choices available in school cafeterias, Dr. Ludwig told BC Radio that his book, Ending the Food Fight, helps families work together to make the right food choices that will lead to improved health for all. Recognizing that biology, behavior, and environment all play an important role in the process, Dr. Ludwig's approach gives parents tools to deal with all the necessary factors, and he has tailored a program that will help families work together to conquer the problem of childhood obesity.