Wellbeing and Your Wallet

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Anthony Russomano, Founder of Mano Wellness, to talk about physical wellness habits and how they play into financial wellbeing. Key discussion topics include how to set and meet attainable goals, building community for accountability, and finding fun habits that enrich your life. Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I joined a run club to get active and meet people in my community. The problem is, I’m the slowest person there! Everyone is kind to me, but I’m feeling embarrassed and considering dropping out. How can I get over my insecurity and stick with it? Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Certified Wellbeing Coaches. Trained to provide members with the best possible support, they can help you work out your financial wellness goals. Schedule an appointment online to meet a coach in your area. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by John Carpenter, national practice partner at ERA Group and a member of Affinity’s Board of Directors, to talk about the role community plays in shaping our everyday lives. Key discussion topics include what community really means beyond geography, why showing up and getting involved matters, how local engagement supports personal wellbeing, and simple ways to build stronger connections where you live. Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I moved across state lines last year, and I’m still working on finding my community. I just don’t know where to start! How do I find my people and connect with the new place I live? Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Wellbeing Awards, which honor individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence in financial, community, and physical wellbeing. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss how to align financial goals and plan for retirement with a partner. Topics include establishing regular financial check-ins, bridging different goals and communication styles, and setting yourselves up for success as a team. Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: As my New Year’s resolution, I significantly increased the monthly contribution to my retirement account. I feel like I’m finally getting ahead of my financial goals - but I’m miserable! I had to cut most forms of entertainment out of my life. I’m not traveling to see family or getting drinks with friends. How do I turn this resolution into something more sustainable? I’m willing to sacrifice to safeguard my future, but I don’t want to totally ruin my life in the meantime Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Certified Wellbeing Coaches. Trained to provide members with the best possible support, they can help you get your financial plans back on track. Schedule an appointment online to meet a coach in your area. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss how to identify and address burnout. Key topics include stress management strategies for individuals and families, communicating about personal challenges, and building healthy habits to recover from burnout. Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My son just started middle school, and it has been a stressful experience. He’s having trouble adjusting to the schedule, making friends, and keeping up with homework. How do I encourage him while also helping him build healthy habits, like a positive work ethic? I want to make things easier for him, but I also recognize that tough transitions are a learning opportunity. Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Plus Checking Account. Earn up to 10% in cash back on debit card purchases, get refunds on ATM withdrawal fees, and manage your money with zero monthly maintenance fees. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss the financial strain that the holidays can bring, and how to bounce back in the first few months of the year. Key topics include assessing spending habits, conducting a budget reset, and getting back on track after overspending. Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My partner and I have multiple weddings and family events over the next few months that are quickly adding up. Should we consider skipping, dividing up who attends, using BNPL options, trying to use points for airfare, etc? I feel like outside of using credit cards, we can’t afford to book all the necessary travel ahead of time. Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s many wellbeing resources, including public seminars, free credit counseling with Navicore Solutions, and a blog packed with helpful tips on saving, budgeting, and more. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Tammy Latif, Human Resources Generalist at Affinity. They discuss how to build a career plan, develop key skills, and find fulfillment in your professional life. Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: Last year, I moved to a new state, and I started a new job after ten years at my last one. How do I show my skills, get to know my coworkers, and maintain life balance all at the same time? It’s been so long since I’ve made a transition like this, and I feel rusty. Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s High-Yield Checking Accounts. Grow your savings, get monthly ATM refunds, and earn a 5.50% APY to make your money work for you. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz answer your burning questions about Affinity. They discuss the credit union difference and share tips to improve member financial wellbeing. Following the main discussion, the team addresses a final question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: Since switching over from a bank to Affinity, I have finally gotten control over my finances. By working with a Wellbeing Coach, I’ve learned the fundamentals of budgeting, and have even started saving for retirement. My brother is having some financial issues right now, and I think it could benefit him to join as a member. However, he doesn’t really understand credit unions. How do I address his misconception that Affinity will have less resources than a bank? Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s High-Yield Checking account. With a 5.50% APY up to $15,000, monthly ATM refunds, and no maintenance fees, this account is a great option to manage your money. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Jen Shortelle, Strategic Clinical Advisor at Spring Health. They discuss maintaining balance and mental wellness during the holiday season, when many people face loss, family conflict, and changes in routine. Key topics include starting open communication with loved ones, practicing mindfulness tips to keep you grounded, and setting realistic expectations for the holiday season. Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: As I head into 2026, I keep thinking about my student loans. They have been hanging over my head for so long, and I really want this to be the year I finally make progress. The truth is, I feel anxious every time I look at the balance, and it makes it hard to stay motivated. How can I put together a plan for the new year that helps me tackle my student loans without feeling stressed or discouraged the whole time? Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s wellbeing resources, including a partnership with Navicore Solutions for free credit counseling. If you’re looking to understand and improve your credit, seek a consultation to take control of your financial wellbeing. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss budgeting for a holiday season that feels festive without breaking the bank. Main discussion topics include managing financial anxiety, making mindful choices to save, and planning ahead to shop holiday deals. Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: It always feels like January lasts three months and my paycheck doesn’t. Between higher bills, leftover holiday expenses, and trying to get back on track, I feel like I start the year already behind. How can I be more proactive this year so I’m not constantly trying to dig myself out? Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Plus Checking Account. Earn up to 10% in cash back on debit card purchases, get refunds on ATM withdrawal fees, and manage your money with zero monthly maintenance cost. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Bola Sokunbi, founder of Clever Girl Finance and Wellbeing Awards honoree. The hosts explain the process behind each year’s Wellbeing Awards, including the three awards categories. They highlight the amazing group of 2025 honorees and interview Bola about how her organization boosts wellbeing through financial empowerment. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: During the holiday season, my family usually donates money to a national charity. This year, my wife and I want to do something more tangible for our local community. Also, I think my kids are old enough to get involved. How can we find local charities that need hands-on support, especially for whole-family volunteering? Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s High-Yield Checking Accounts. Grow your savings, get monthly ATM refunds, and earn a 5.50% APY to make your money work for you. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Kelly Watts, Executive Director of the Affinity Foundation, to talk about the impact of food insecurity and how communities can help. Key discussion topics include the rising cost of groceries, barriers that prevent people from seeking support, how credit unions and local organizations are making a difference, and ways individuals can offer meaningful support to those in need. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: Every year I feel like holiday gift giving gets more expensive, especially now with prices going up on just about everything. I want to make sure my kids and relatives feel special, but I also do not want to start the new year with credit card debt. What are some creative ways to handle holiday gifting without overspending? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Debit card, a great checking account where you can earn 1% cashback on purchases for up to $1,000 a month to help you earn more toward your financial goals. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Bryan Watkinson, Vice President of Risk Operations at Affinity, to break down how cyber threats are becoming one of the biggest risks to your financial security. Key discussion topics include the rise of phishing scams and AI-generated fraud, where consumers are most vulnerable, what protections are available if you're impacted, and the everyday habits that can help you stay safe online. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My elderly mom recently got a call claiming to be from a government agency, saying she owed money and needed to pay immediately. Thankfully, she checked with me first, but it really scared her. How can I help protect her from scams like this without making her feel like I'm taking over her finances? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s award-winning SmartStart Savings account. Whether you’re building your emergency fund or saving for a down payment, Affinity is here to help you earn more toward your financial goals with this high-yield savings account. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss the ins and outs of BNPL payments. Key discussion topics include the hidden downsides of BNPL, including the mental burden of carrying many small debts. The hosts discuss financial resources and tools that are less risky than BNPL, plus tips for how to establish strong financial footing in daily life through the core skills of budgeting and saving. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I have been invited to four weddings this year, and between gifts, travel, and outfits, it is adding up fast. I want to celebrate my friends and family, but it feels like I am going broke doing it. How can I set boundaries and budget for big life events without feeling guilty or missing out? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s high-yield checking accounts. Grow your savings, get monthly ATM refunds, and earn a 5.50% APY to make your money work for you. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Roger Tashjian, Affinity’s Board Chairman and Co-Founder of Bergen Realty Team, to talk about leadership, community, and what today’s homebuyers really need to know. Key discussion topics include Roger’s path from member to board chair, what’s happening in the local housing market, the real challenges buyers face, and what it takes to prepare for homeownership in a competitive and changing environment. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My rent just went up by $300 a month, and it feels like my budget has been completely thrown off. I can cover it, but only if I cut back on saving. What’s the best way to adjust when housing costs suddenly take up a much bigger slice of your income? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s mortgage offerings. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or experienced homeowner, Affinity can support you every step of the way with competitive rates, fixed and adjustable-rate mortgage options, and expert guidance. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz explore the role artificial intelligence plays in shaping financial advice today and where it can fall short. Key discussion topics include: the pros and cons of using AI tools for money management, how to spot generic or misleading guidance, why human insight still matters, and how Affinity supports members with personalized advice that actually fits their lives. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I’m in my early 40s and recently divorced. I’ve always let my ex handle our finances, and now I’m trying to get back on track on my own. I have a stable job but feel overwhelmed figuring out how to budget, save, and plan for retirement. Where should I start without getting discouraged? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s tools and financial wellbeing resources, including blogs, educational events & webinars, credit counseling tools, and more. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Katie Gallagher, a middle school teacher and Grant’s wife. As back to school season begins, they discuss how to budget for a successful year. Key discussion topics include pacing a budget throughout the year, targeting cheaper off-brand supplies, paying for extracurricular activities, navigating the financial aspects of the school year as an educator, and involving your kid in the shopping process for financial education. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I have two kids who are 8 and 6 years old. I don’t have any money saved for their college education. I know how expensive college can be, and I don’t want them taking out massive loan amounts when the time comes. I don’t really have any room in my budget right now to put money away for their college, so I was curious what tips you guys had for saving for college when your budget doesn’t really allow for it? Finally, Grant concludes by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Debit Card, which comes free with their checking account and allows users to earn up to 1% cash back on purchases. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz walk through the full range of products and services available at Affinity and how they support your financial wellbeing at every stage of life. Key discussion topics include everyday banking options like checking and savings accounts, tools for borrowing and building credit, home and auto loans, retirement and investment support, and how to connect with Affinity for personalized guidance. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I have balances on three different credit cards with interest rates all over the place. Every time I think I’m making progress, another unexpected expense sets me back. I’m feeling stuck and frustrated. How do I break the cycle and actually pay these cards off for good? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s tools and financial wellbeing resources, including blogs, educational events & webinars, credit counseling tools, and more. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Katie O'Shea from Navicore Solutions to reflect on the financial lessons they wish they learned sooner. Key discussion topics include common money mistakes in your 20s, building good habits early, understanding credit, managing peer pressure around spending, and setting both short- and long-term goals that grow with you. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My partner and I both work freelance jobs with irregular income, and it feels impossible to budget when some months are great and others are tight. We’re tired of feeling like we’re always catching up or overspending when we have a good month. How can we build a budget or system that actually works with unpredictable paychecks? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s award-winning SmartStart Savings account. Whether you’re saving for a down payment, dream vacation, or rainy day, Affinity is here to help you earn more toward your financial goals with this high-yield savings account. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz take a closer look at some of the biggest financial decisions made by celebrities and what everyday people can learn from them. From Mike Tyson’s financial missteps to Oprah’s smart business moves, the conversation focuses on turning high-profile money choices into practical advice. Key discussion topics include avoiding lifestyle creep, recognizing risky financial moves, building multiple income streams, and making confident, intentional choices with your money. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I took a break from work to care for my aging parents, and now I’m trying to re-enter the workforce. My savings are running low, and it feels like I’ve fallen behind financially and professionally. Where do I even begin when I feel like I’m starting over in every way? Finally, Grant concludes by highlighting Affinity’s High-Yield Checking account, which combines excellent earning potential with automatic savings growth. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz welcome Ilona Limonta-Volkova, host of the “Money Memories” podcast, to discuss building healthier financial habits and a positive mindset around money. Key discussion topics include: why financial guilt sticks with us, how family and upbringing shape our money mindset, practical ways to move past shame, and tips for creating healthy financial habits with confidence and support. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I’m preparing to relocate for a job opportunity in a new city, and while it’s exciting, I’m realizing how expensive moving actually is. Between deposits, furniture, and the cost of getting settled, it’s overwhelming. What should I prioritize financially during a big life transition like this? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s tools and financial wellbeing resources, including blogs, educational events & webinars, credit counseling tools, and more. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.