Behind The Curtain: Money Made Simple

In this episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, host Julie Beckham speaks with certified risk management professional Angela Diaz about fraud prevention and the growing threat of account takeovers. Angela explains how artificial intelligence is making scams more convincing, why fraudsters use urgency and fear to obtain credentials or move money, and how consumers can better protect themselves. They discuss monitoring account activity, verifying unexpected bank communications, using passkeys and layered authentication, and recognizing warning signs during suspicious interactions. Angela also explains why fraud can affect anyone and why talking openly about scams can help consumers protect themselves and others.

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Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Julie introduces Angela Diaz and the growing challenge of fraud prevention during Cybersecurity Month

[00:02:38] How account takeovers have reached an industrialized scale and the role of artificial intelligence

[00:03:05] What an account takeover is and why it can be difficult for financial institutions to detect

[00:04:37] Why consumers should regularly monitor their own account activity

[00:07:18] The connection between account takeovers, phishing scams, urgency, and social engineering

[00:07:18] Why consumers should disconnect and independently contact their bank when suspicious communications occur

[00:12:42] What normal bank communication can look like and warning signs consumers should recognize

[00:15:15] How passkeys and layered authentication can make accounts harder for fraudsters to exploit

[00:16:35] Comparing fraud risks in digital banking, mobile banking, and in-person banking

[00:18:28] Angela's "trust, but verify" approach to fraud prevention

[00:18:28] Why fraud education matters for consumers of every age and level of financial experience

[00:20:13] How openly discussing fraud can reduce shame and help expose scammers' tactics

[00:21:49] Angela answers rapid-fire questions about her personality and interests

[00:24:06] Why fighting fraud motivates Angela in her work

[00:24:57] Balancing retirement planning with enjoying and finding meaning in the present

[00:26:40] How working with a financial planner changed Angela's approach to saving and spending

[00:28:11] Angela's challenge to review passwords, passkeys, phone security, and everyday banking habits

[00:28:11] Why families should discuss scams and safe banking practices with older adults, friends, and teenagers

Links:

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

Angela Diaz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-diaz-crmp-37430064/ 

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

In this episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, Julie Beckham speaks with Brian Page of Modern Husbands about the connection between money, relationships, and the responsibilities couples share at home. Brian explains how our childhood experiences and money stories can influence financial behaviors and relationships well into adulthood. He also explores the Fair Play system, the mental load of managing a household, and the importance of approaching money as a team. Brian shares practical ways couples can reduce conflict, create more equitable partnerships, and make money conversations more productive by focusing on shared goals, active listening, and joy.

All credit products and services are subject to underwriting and approval.

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Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Julie introduces Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple and guest Brian Page of Modern Husbands

[00:03:36] Brian’s transition from focusing on his career to supporting his wife’s career and taking on more responsibilities at home

[00:04:48] Adjusting to changing roles within a marriage and handing off household responsibilities

[00:06:06] What financial therapy is and how it connects financial knowledge, personal money stories, and relationships

[00:08:37] How childhood financial trauma can influence adult behaviors, financial success, health, and relationships

[00:10:02] Understanding “big T” financial trauma and the lasting impact of significant financial experiences

[00:12:08] How the Fair Play system helps couples create more equity when managing household responsibilities

[00:16:10] The mental load behind everyday household tasks and why responsibility involves more than completing a chore

[00:17:22] Using Fair Play principles to define ownership, standards, and equal leisure time within a relationship

[00:21:41] Why couples often associate money conversations with stress, frustration, and conflict

[00:23:12] Scheduling money conversations when emotions are low so couples can communicate more productively

[00:23:43] Starting financial conversations with joy, abundance, and shared dreams instead of problems

[00:24:27] Using financial choices to buy back time and support the life a couple wants to create together

[00:25:20] Why regular money conversations can reinforce the idea that partners are on the same team

[00:26:47] How couples can use Fair Play resources, cards, and facilitation to manage household labor more equitably

[00:28:08] How dividing responsibilities can support each partner’s authentic self and create greater happiness at home

[00:32:28] Brian’s advice for couples experiencing money conflict: schedule an intentional conversation

[00:32:57] Using active listening to understand a partner’s perspective on money rather than waiting for a turn to respond

[00:34:34] Brian answers Julie’s rapid-fire Behind the Curtain questions

[00:36:15] Brian’s money lesson: there is more time to earn money, but time itself cannot be recovered

[00:36:29] Brian’s challenge for listeners to schedule a monthly money meeting with their partner

Links:

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

Brian Page on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianhpage/

Modern Husbands: https://www.modernhusbands.com/ 

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

In this BONUS episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, we celebrate Financial Literacy Day on Capital Hill by featuring recent local high school graduates Daniel Idemudia, Sophie Hong and Euniss Yoyo. Each of these students was motivated by a lack of access to financial education and turned that deficit into a mission to create opportunities to help their peers, their communities and themselves become financially literate.  Policy makers, community activists and entrepreneurs, these three college students are paving new pathways for financial empowerment. Meet the students behind the movement and let their stories motivate you to mentor or volunteer at your local youth organization or school.

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Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Julie introduces Daniel Idemudia, Sophie Hong, and Euniss Yoyo and their work in financial education and community empowerment.

[00:05:25] Daniel explains how his family’s experience, online resources, investing mistakes, professional connections, and internships helped him become financially literate.

[00:07:52] Sophie shares how a fifth-grade reality fair introduced her to budgeting and sparked her interest in personal finance.

[00:10:53] Daniel discusses his vision for Fortune Avenue and creating a cycle of mentorship, leadership development, and succession among young people.

[00:14:28] Sophie describes plans to continue writing, holding financial education workshops, and pursuing her growing interest in education and economic policy.

[00:18:55] Sophie explains why students entering college would benefit from personal finance education, especially amid scams, debt traps, and gambling.

[00:19:34] Daniel discusses his concern that many young people do not recognize the urgency of becoming financially literate.

[00:20:56] Julie reflects on the importance of repeated exposure to personal finance concepts and the financial opportunities that can be missed without early education.

[00:24:27] Euniss explains how involvement in a community organization helped broaden her perspective and showed her how she could help others.

[00:26:36] Euniss identifies “you only live once” as money advice she would rather forget.

[00:26:50] Euniss shares advice from her aunt about how financial habits developed now can shape her future.

[00:27:20] Euniss challenges listeners to research local youth organizations and support them through volunteering or donations.

Links:

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

In this episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, Julie Beckham speaks with Bob Driscoll, Director of Consumer Real Estate at Rockland Trust, about the myths and realities of buying a home. Bob explains why there is no universally “bad” time to buy, why a 20% down payment isn’t always necessary, and how first-time homebuyer and down payment assistance programs can create opportunities. They also discuss the value of getting pre-approved, understanding your credit, working with a loan officer you trust, and starting the education process well before you’re ready to make an offer. Bob encourages prospective buyers to stay curious, understand their options, and keep the joy in the homebuying process.

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Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Show introduction.

[00:00:49] Julie introduces Bob Driscoll and the challenges and aspirations surrounding homeownership

[00:02:49] Why Bob considers the idea that it’s a bad time to buy a home a myth

[00:05:58] Keeping the home search enjoyable and knowing when to step away and reset

[00:08:13] Why buyers don’t necessarily need a 20% down payment

[00:08:51] How someone can qualify as a first-time homebuyer after previously owning a home

[00:09:31] The importance of sharing your full financial story with a loan officer

[00:10:52] Income guidelines for down payment assistance programs

[00:11:25] HUD median income and affordable homeownership programs in Massachusetts

[00:15:40] Why different mortgage lenders may have access to different loan programs and resources

[00:20:03] Why getting pre-approved is an important step before seriously pursuing a home

[00:24:14] Building trust and maintaining open communication with your loan officer

[00:25:21] Why a perfect credit score isn’t required to buy a home

[00:28:21] Why it’s never too early to speak with a loan officer

[00:28:32] How long a mortgage pre-approval lasts and when to revisit it

[00:29:43] Pre-approval as a no-cost, no-commitment opportunity to understand your buying power

[00:30:24] Bob’s advice to prospective homebuyers: stay curious and start learning early

[00:31:13] What motivates Bob to help borrowers and make a difference in communities

[00:32:07] The money advice Bob wishes he could erase: waiting for a 20% down payment before buying

[00:33:12] Separating financial needs from wants

[00:33:39] Bob’s challenge to listeners: track spending and build an honest budget

Links:

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

Bob Driscoll: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/personal-banking/loans/bob-driscoll 

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

All credit products and services are subject to underwriting and approval Rockland Trust is an Equal Housing Lender.

In this episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, Julie Beckham kicks off a new season with a fresh intention: get loud about money. Inspired by the trend of “loud budgeting,” Julie explores what can happen when we openly explain the financial choices we make and start conversations about our goals, priorities, and challenges. From a former student’s well-loved kindergarten backpack to conversations about brunch, home buying, college costs, and retirement, Julie examines how our everyday choices send messages about money. She also shares practical ways to make financial conversations easier, including choosing the right moment and creating a regular cadence for talking about money with the people in your life.

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

In this season finale of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, host Julie Beckham takes a moment to reflect on the podcast’s journey through two seasons of conversations about money, careers, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. Drawing from her own background in theater, Julie shares how persistence, resilience, and the willingness to keep trying have shaped both her professional path and her approach to financial education. She discusses the challenges of pursuing goals, the realities of setbacks, and why financial wellness is often built through small, imperfect steps. Julie also highlights the value of learning through stories and thanks the guests, listeners, and supporters who have helped make the podcast a success. 

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

In this episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, Julie Beckham sits down with estate planning attorney Suzanne Bunszel to discuss a topic many families overlook when a child turns 18. While parents spend years protecting and advocating for their children, legal authority changes dramatically once a young adult reaches adulthood. Suzanne explains why essential documents such as a healthcare proxy, HIPAA release, and power of attorney can help families avoid costly legal hurdles during medical or financial emergencies. The conversation examines common misconceptions about estate planning, the challenges families face when these documents are not in place, and why proactive planning is an important step toward independence for young adults. This episode offers practical guidance for parents and young adults preparing for life after age 18. 

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[00:00:00] Introduction to the legal documents young adults need after turning 18

[00:02:13] Why parents lose legal decision-making authority once a child becomes an adult

[00:03:07] The two critical areas of planning: medical and financial decisions

[00:04:33] Why every young adult should have a healthcare proxy, HIPAA release, and power of attorney

[00:05:50] Understanding how a healthcare proxy works and when it becomes effective

[00:07:21] What can happen if a parent needs to make medical decisions without a healthcare proxy

[00:09:28] How young adult estate planning packages are structured and who chooses decision-makers

[00:10:23] The role of a HIPAA release and how it differs from a healthcare proxy

[00:12:49] Why professionally prepared healthcare documents can provide broader protection

[00:13:24] How durable powers of attorney help with financial matters

[00:15:53] Working with banks and financial institutions to ensure powers of attorney are accepted

[00:17:49] Risks and considerations when using online legal document services

[00:19:47] The value of professional guidance for legal, financial, and healthcare planning

[00:21:34] Why awareness and advocacy around young adult estate planning are needed

[00:22:31] Common misconceptions about estate planning for young adults

[00:23:07] Lessons learned from COVID-19 about the importance of healthcare documents

[00:23:49] Using legal planning as an opportunity for family conversations about independence and decision-making

[00:27:11] Suzanne’s motivation for helping families create estate plans

[00:28:28] The misconception that having a will alone is enough to avoid probate

[00:29:31] The importance of financial education and investing at a young age

[00:30:39] Why honest financial conversations are the foundation of long-term planning

Links:

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

In this episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, Julie Beckham sits down with award-winning journalist and author Cameron Huddleston to address one of the hardest financial conversations families face: talking about money with parents and children. Cameron shares her personal story of losing her father unexpectedly and later helping her mother through Alzheimer’s without knowing the details of her finances—experiences that inspired her book Mom and Dad, We Need to Talk. Together, Julie and Cameron explore why it’s crucial to start these conversations early, the key documents every family should have, and how to balance supporting adult children while protecting your own financial future. They also discuss scams, long-term care planning, and practical strategies for building peace of mind through preparation and honesty. 

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[00:00:00] Julie introduces Cameron Huddleston and the challenge of managing finances across generations. 

[02:29] Cameron shares the personal story of her father’s death without a will and the difficulties that followed. 

[04:50] How her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis pushed Cameron to secure critical estate planning documents. 

[06:58] The importance of explaining wills, powers of attorney, and long-term care in simple terms. 

[09:44] Why these conversations with parents are awkward, and how to research before initiating them. 

[11:22] Cameron describes having estate planning talks with her own young adult children. 

[15:30] Assigning children as executors and powers of attorney—why preparation matters. 

[18:25] Creating peace of mind by putting wishes in writing and reducing stress for families. 

[19:53] Cost of estate planning documents, alternatives like online services, and when to hire an attorney. 

[24:16] Julie highlights resources at Rockland Trust and other financial institutions. 

[25:50] Supporting adult children after college without jeopardizing retirement savings. 

[29:57] How high costs of living and shifting job markets affect parental financial support. 

[31:21] Setting boundaries with adult children while teaching independence and budgeting. 

[34:03] The financial challenges that arise in every life stage. 

[36:02] Why open communication about money with partners, children, and parents makes crises easier to handle. 

[38:12] Understanding that money conversations with family are a series of talks, not a one-time event. 

[40:09] Free resources Cameron offers, including emergency organizers and scam red flag sheets. 

[42:02] Rapid-fire curtain call questions with Cameron, from favorite words to biggest money lessons. 

[46:08] The advice Cameron wishes she’d known sooner: start saving for retirement early. 

[48:02] Cameron’s financial challenge for listeners: align your spending with your true priorities. 

[49:23] Julie reflects on the conversation and the importance of using personal experience to help others. 

Links: 

Cameron Huddleston on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-huddleston-187b633/  

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/ 

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534 

In this episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, Julie Beckham sits down with Meg Hagan and Erin Gallagher, co-founders of the Children’s Museum of Franklin. The conversation follows how a casual conversation between two moms turned into a fully operational nonprofit serving thousands of families. Meg and Erin share how they built a business plan, formed a board, and leaned on community connections to bring their vision to life. They also explain the financial structure of a 501(c)(3), the importance of multiple revenue streams, and how partnerships and curiosity helped them move forward despite uncertainty. This episode highlights how purpose, collaboration, and persistence can turn an idea into a lasting community resource.

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[00:00:00] Introduction to the podcast and overview of the Children’s Museum of Franklin

[00:01:57] The moment Meg and Erin discovered their shared vision

[00:03:14] Turning the idea into action with a business plan and nonprofit setup

[00:03:54] Building a brand, mission, and early community engagement

[00:05:08] Leveraging professional backgrounds and expanding expertise through advisors

[00:07:28] Role of advisory board members and community experts

[00:09:53] Advice for parents pursuing big goals while raising children

[00:11:00] Importance of partnership and accountability in building a business

[00:12:38] Market research and understanding audience reach

[00:13:00] Early success metrics and visitor growth

[00:13:31] Designing an inclusive and accessible museum experience

[00:15:34] Defining core values: belonging, joy, curiosity, connection, and respect

[00:17:06] Why the museum operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit

[00:18:19] Impact story highlighting accessibility and community value

[00:20:41] Revenue streams: admissions, events, fundraising, and donations

[00:22:22] Membership structure and early adoption success

[00:24:42] Building a team, hiring staff, and engaging volunteers

[00:26:16] Partnerships with schools and community organizations

[00:27:24] Staying grounded in mission and celebrating meaningful moments

[00:29:58] Rapid-fire insights on motivation, challenges, and money lessons

[00:31:59] Final advice: stay curious and take action even when uncomfortable

Links:

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

Children’s Museum of Franklin: https://www.childrensmuseumfranklin.org/

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

In this Financial Literacy Month episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, Julie Beckham reunites with former cast members of Ms. Money and the Coins, Carol Smolinski and Mike Charles. They reflect on performing the musical for thousands of students and how those early lessons shaped their lives and careers. Carol shares her path to becoming an accredited financial counselor, while Mike discusses building his own entertainment business. Together, they revisit key concepts like needs versus wants, saving, and the importance of early financial education, highlighting how simple lessons can influence long-term financial confidence and decision-making.

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[00:00:00] Introduction to Financial Literacy Month and the origins of Ms. Money and the Coins.

[00:01:50] How the musical was created in response to a national call for financial education.

[00:04:08] Carol’s audition story and early career stage before joining the production.

[00:04:52] Carol’s transition into financial counseling and education work.

[00:06:34] Mike’s background, including overcoming cancer and starting his career.

[00:07:01] Mike’s role at Radio Disney and path to joining the cast.

[00:08:04] Mike’s current work as a business owner in the events industry.

[00:09:41] Lessons learned from performing for students, including creative problem solving.

[00:11:02] The importance of understanding needs versus wants in everyday life.

[00:12:15] How financial lessons from the show stayed with audiences over time.

[00:16:42] Carol on the importance of understanding compound interest early.

[00:19:56] Mike on the lack of practical financial education in schools.

[00:20:48] The long-term financial impact of learning money management skills early.

[00:22:13] Rapid fire segment begins with personal insights and fun questions.

[00:24:26] Mike’s goal of building a $10,000 business safety net.

[00:26:15] Carol’s advice to start saving immediately, no matter the amount.

[00:26:48] The importance of planning for “future you” through saving and investing.

[00:27:30] Carol shares her current work and how to connect with her organization.

[00:28:29] Mike shares his business and where to find his services online.

[00:28:42] Closing thoughts and encouragement to take action on financial goals.

Links:

Rockland Trust: https://www.rocklandtrust.com/

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

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