Carpe Dime Podcast

Debit or credit - it’s a choice you make almost every day, but the impact goes beyond just how you pay. In this episode of Carpe Dime, Nicole and Jamie break down the key differences between debit and credit cards, including how each one affects your finances, your security, and your credit score.

They also touch on fraud risks tied to both payment types and how to protect yourself while using them. If you want to feel more confident every time you swipe, tap, or click, this episode will give you the clarity you need.

Checking and savings accounts are the foundation of your financial life, but not all accounts are built the same. In this episode of Carpe Dime, Nicole and Jamie take a deeper dive into the different types of checking and savings accounts, how they work, and when to use each one.

From everyday spending to long-term saving strategies, they walk through the benefits of each account type and how to align them with your financial goals.

Not all financial institutions are created equal and understanding the difference can have a real impact on your financial journey. In this episode of Carpe Dime, Nicole and Jamie break down the key differences between credit unions and traditional banks, including what sets credit unions apart and how that can benefit you.

They also explore how to choose the right account based on your stage of life, whether you’re just getting started, building momentum, or looking to maximize your financial potential. If you’ve ever wondered where you should bank and why this episode is the place to start.

Kids are spending more time online than ever and that opens the door to risks many families don’t always see coming. In this episode of Carpe Dime, Nicole and Jamie take a closer look at how fraud and identity theft can impact children, often long before anyone realizes it.

From online gaming chats to everyday app usage, they break down how scammers target kids, what information is most at risk, and why children can be especially vulnerable. The conversation also focuses on what parents can do to stay ahead, from monitoring for warning signs to creating open, ongoing conversations that help kids recognize and avoid potential threats.

Fraud and scams are evolving faster than ever — and right now, certain schemes are making the rounds more than others. In this episode, Nicole and Jamie sit down with Joanna Dearth to break down the most common scams happening today, from sneaky phishing messages to sophisticated impersonation calls. They share how to spot red flags, practical ways to protect yourself, and what steps to take if you’ve been targeted.

In this episode of Carpe Dime, Nicole and Mackenzie kick off a multi-part series on fraud awareness, offering listeners insights on how to protect themselves from scams. With practical tips on spotting scams, staying vigilant online, and safeguarding personal information, this episode empowers listeners to better protect themselves.

In this episode, Jamie and Nicole dive into the critical financial strategies every business owner needs. From budgeting and tax planning to exit strategies and contingency plans, they discuss how thoughtful financial management ensures long-term success. Whether you're just starting or planning your business's future, this episode provides the tools you need to thrive.

In honor of Financial Literacy Month, Jamie and Nicole explore how to build lifelong money skills - starting as early as age three. From coin jars and “playing store” to allowance apps and budgeting goals, this episode breaks down age-appropriate financial lessons and why it’s never too early (or too late) to start learning.

Budgeting - it’s the topic we bring up all the time, but have we ever really broken it down? In this episode of Carpe Dime, Jamie and Nicole dive into the ins and outs of budgeting, why it’s more of a financial roadmap than a restriction, and how it can help you take control of your money. Whether you're new to budgeting or need a refresh, this one's for you!

Join hosts Jamie and Nicole from Financial Center for a straightforward dive into the world of mortgages. In this episode of Carpe Dime, they break down the most common types of home loans explaining how each works and who they’re best for. With expert advice, personal experiences, and a few laughs, Jamie and Nicole make understanding mortgages less intimidating and more approachable. Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed decisions.