🎙️ A+ U Podcast Presented by Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

Guest: Jacquie Twedt, Director of Operations & Foundation Board Chair

In this special episode, hosts Danielle and Amber sit down with Jacquie Twedt, Director of Operations at Affinity Plus and Board Chair of the Affinity Plus Foundation. They dive into the mission and growing impact of the Foundation—from addressing housing and food insecurity to expanding financial education and access to education across Minnesota.

🌟 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What the Affinity Plus Foundation is and why it exists
• The four key pillars guiding the Foundation’s work: housing stability, food security, financial well-being, and access to education
• How strategic partnerships are helping people access safe housing and homeownership
• Ways the Foundation supports youth through scholarships and Junior Achievement initiatives
  The story behind a historic $1 million in grants awarded through the Federal Home Loan Bank
• How you can support the Foundation during its 25th anniversary donation match campaign, in partnership with Visa

Whether you’re a long-time member or new to Affinity Plus, this episode offers inspiring insight into how the Foundation is building stronger communities—and how you can be part of the impact.

🔗 Learn more and get involved at affinityplus.org/25years

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

Brought to you by Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

Minneapolis music legend Nur-D joins hosts Danielle and Amber for a high-energy, heart-filled episode of A+ You! 🎤✨

A proud Affinity Plus member, Nur-D talks about his journey as an artist, what it means to give back to the community, and how building his own studio led to the creation of his upcoming 10th album, Chunkadelic—a funk-meets-hip-hop celebration of joy, soul, and self-expression.

💥 Hear behind-the-scenes stories about his favorite concerts, how he flipped the meaning of “nerdy” into his stage name, and why being part of a values-driven credit union has made such an impact in his life.

🎶 Album Drops: July 23

🎉 Chunkadelic Release Party: July 25 @ The Fillmore Minneapolis

🔗 More from Nur-D: https://nur-drocks.com

Subscribe: https://youtube.com/@AffinityPlusFederalCreditUnion

Connect with Affinity Plus:
💻 Website https://Affinityplus.org 

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

In this episode of A+ You, brought to you by Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, hosts Danielle Johnson and Amber Shanley are joined by Tara Rutz, Mortgage Servicing and Origination Manager, to help simplify the often overwhelming world of homeownership.

From buying your first home to making long-term improvements, Tara offers clear explanations, helpful tips, and relatable stories about the journey of owning a home. Whether you’re just starting out or already settled in, this episode will help you feel more informed—and empowered.

Listeners will learn about:

• The difference between appraisals and inspections
• What escrow really means and how it works
• Down payment expectations (hint: it’s not always 20%)
• What mortgage insurance is and when it applies
• How to prepare financially for homeownership
• The step-by-step home buying process
• Home equity loans vs. HELOCs (home equity lines of credit)
• What to expect during the closing process
• The role of Affinity Plus in supporting members beyond the mortgage

Whether you’re exploring your first home or planning a renovation, this episode helps make the process feel a little more approachable—and a lot more exciting.

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

Presented by Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

In this insightful and approachable episode of A+ You, hosts Danielle Johnson and Amber Shanley are joined by Kotchi Prosper, Director of Investment & Retirement Services at Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union. From laughs over spilled coffee to smart savings strategies, the conversation makes financial planning feel less intimidating and a lot more human.

Kotchi shares his unique personal story (spoiler: he’s never had coffee!) and breaks down the role of the Investment Center at Affinity Plus. He explains how their advisors work hand-in-hand with credit union staff to support members’ goals—whether that’s saving a few dollars a month or preparing for retirement.

Listeners will learn about:

• What an investment advisor really does (no suit required)
• Why market volatility is normal—and how it can work in your favor
• The power of habits in financial success
• Investment tips for beginners, including how to start with as little as $5
• A sneak peek at Affinity Plus’s upcoming DIY investing app
• The benefits of 529 college savings plans—and why your retirement should come first

Whether you’re just getting started or rethinking your approach, this episode offers calm, clarity, and a little humor along the way. No pressure, no fees—just helpful, human advice.

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

In this episode of A+ You, hosts Danielle and Amber sit down with Jake Kuester, Director of Business Services at Affinity Plus, to celebrate Small Business Month and dive into the vital role small businesses play in our communities. Jake shares inspiring stories of local entrepreneurs, discusses common challenges faced by small business owners, and highlights the resources and financial tools available through Affinity Plus to help businesses thrive—from startup support to commercial real estate lending. Whether you’re running a burrito shop out of your home or pivoting a business model during a global pandemic, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and heart.

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

Episode 4: Financial Education, Part 2 – Real Tips for Real Life

Guest: Anthony Kuefler

Presented by: Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

In part two of our financial education series, Anthony Kuefler (Tony) returns to share practical, real-life strategies for taking control of your finances. From the importance of “paying yourself first” to using the snowball or avalanche method for debt payoff, this episode is packed with actionable tips for every stage of life.

We also explore how financial planning evolves through different life phases, the emotional side of money, and how budgeting doesn’t have to be scary—it’s empowering. Whether you’re new to managing your money or looking to refine your approach, this conversation offers inspiration, clarity, and a few laughs along the way.

🎧 Topics covered:

• Budgeting basics and tips
• Debt payoff strategies: Snowball vs. Avalanche
• Financial decision-making through different life stages
• The emotional side of money and empowerment

Don’t forget to subscribe and check out Episode 1 with Anthony! 

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

In this special Financial Literacy Month episode, hosts Danielle Johnson and Amber Shanley are joined by Anthony Kuefler, a Financial Coach from Affinity Plus’s Bemidji branch. Together, they dive deep into what it means to truly understand financial education—and how Affinity Plus is helping members across all stages of life build stronger financial futures.

Anthony shares a powerful and emotional story about a member he worked with for three years, helping her recover from a $15,000 scam and ultimately celebrate a triumphant debt payoff. It’s a story of resilience, financial empowerment, and the kind of member-first support that defines Affinity Plus.

Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or refining your plan, this episode offers practical advice, real-life inspiration, and a whole lot of heart.

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

In this episode of the A+ YOU Podcast, hosts Danielle Johnson and Amber Shanley sit down with Brian Volkmann, CFO of Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, to discuss how interest rates impact personal finances, loans, and savings.

Brian shares insights on how Affinity Plus determines rates for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards, while also explaining the role of the Federal Reserve and inflation in shaping financial markets. The conversation highlights the importance of credit scores, down payments, and loan terms in securing better rates.

Whether you’re considering buying a home, refinancing a loan, or improving your savings strategy, this episode provides expert insights and practical advice to help you make informed financial decisions.

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

Dave Larson, CEO of Affinity Plus, shares his 31-year journey in finance and what makes credit unions unique - they're not-for-profit, focused on serving members, not maximizing profits. 

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA