Live Better by Centric FCU

Ever wondered how a simple overdraft privilege can be a financial game-changer? Join me, Kelli Green, on the latest episode of the Live Better podcast by Centric, where I sit down with Whitley Johnson, Centric's seasoned Overdraft Coordinator, to uncover the secrets of managing financial crunches with ease. Whitley, who has been a cornerstone at Centric for nearly nine years, shares her expert insights on how the Overdraft Privilege Program can step in to cover unexpected expenses, from gas to daycare payments, without the long-term strings attached.

In this episode, we explore how Centric is innovating to make financial management more accessible, including their thoughtful approach to waiving fees for overdrafts under $5. Whether it's those sneaky Apple subscriptions or a quick snack from the vending machine, small transactions no longer need to be a burden. Learn how this program can serve as a lifeline during financially tight times, offering a practical alternative to the high costs and embarrassment often associated with payday lenders. Tune in for valuable tips and real-life stories that illustrate how overdraft privilege can be a smart tool for living better.

For more information related to our Overdraft Privilege Program you may learn more here. 

Can managing your finances during the back-to-school season save your sanity? Join us as we uncover valuable strategies with Lynette Kovack, Centric's Solutions Recovery Specialist, who reveals how skip-a-pay and loan deferrals can ease financial stress without harming your credit score. You'll gain insights into scrutinizing bank statements to cut unnecessary expenses and the power of a well-crafted budget that puts you in control. Lynette and I discuss the often overlooked costs of school supplies and extracurricular activities, offering practical advice to help you navigate this financially demanding time with confidence.

Experiencing a job loss or medical expenses? Discover the array of financial relief options Centric offers to support you through both short-term and long-term hardships. Learn the benefits of early communication with your credit union and explore refinancing options that come with a 90-day no-payment grace period. We also emphasize the unique advantages of being part of a credit union and Centric's unwavering commitment to its members, regardless of their financial situation. Stay connected with us by subscribing to the Live Better podcast and following Centric Federal Credit Union on social media for ongoing tips and updates.

Unlock the secrets to financial stability with our latest episode of the Live Better Podcast! Join Kelli Green, Centric's Senior Vice President of Marketing, and Linette Kovach, Solutions Recovery Consultant at Centric Federal Credit Union, as we navigate the complex world of debt relief. Learn how to effectively manage financial challenges, from contacting Centric's Solutions Department for interest reductions and payment adjustments to making informed decisions about significant purchases like vehicles. With the rising cost of living, maintaining flexibility and open communication with financial institutions is more crucial than ever. 

Discover the power of being proactive and open-minded. Linette shares invaluable insights into the tailored financial solutions offered by Centric, including debt consolidation loans and free credit counseling, available to both members and non-members. We emphasize the importance of setting up a budget, obtaining a credit report, and staying informed to enhance your financial health. Empower yourself with the knowledge to tackle debt head-on and achieve long-term financial stability. Tune in and take the first step towards a more secure financial future!

Ever wondered how to shield your wallet from the sting of inflation? Join us as we dive into an insightful conversation with Laura Hawthorne, Chief Consumer Lending Officer at Centric Federal Credit Union. Laura unpacks the complex dynamics of inflation, revealing the forces behind rising costs in groceries, housing, and the car industry. Understand the intricate balance of supply and demand, and discover how inflation is affecting loan and savings rates. Don't miss Laura’s expert advice on how to navigate these turbulent times with practical strategies, including Centric's car buying program designed to help you make smarter financial decisions.

Ready to make your money work harder for you? This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you maximize savings despite soaring prices. Learn the benefits of loan repricing and adjusting payment frequencies to lower your interest costs. Laura also emphasizes the critical distinction between needs and wants in your budget, and the role of financial counselors in streamlining your expenses. From investing in high-yield certificates to leveraging the security of NCUA insurance, we cover all bases. Plus, discover how building a robust credit score can pave the way for better borrowing terms in the future. Tune in and equip yourself with the tools to stay financially resilient!

Unlock the door to your future home with confidence as Ashley Owens, Centric FCU's VP of Mortgage, joins us to clarify the journey of home ownership and the art of securing an advantageous mortgage. If you've ever felt baffled by the fluctuating housing market or tangled in the web of credit scores and interest rates, this episode is your beacon through the fog. Ashley disentangles market trends and illuminates how a sterling credit score is more than just a number—it's your ticket to a rate that smiles back at your wallet. Our chat navigates through the often-overlooked debt-to-income ratio and arms you with strategies to anchor yourself in a rate that won't leave you adrift when financial tides shift.

Step through the threshold of your first home with ease, as we explore Centric's tailored program for first-time buyers that's changing the game—one without private mortgage insurance or the confines of zip codes. Ever pondered the secret passages an experienced real estate agent might reveal or how to prepare for the financial surprises that life likes to throw our way? We've got you covered, filling your toolbox with the essentials for not only acquiring the keys to your new abode but also crafting a budget to keep the hearth of your home life glowing. From pre-qualification to post-purchase peace of mind, this episode is your guide through the labyrinth of home-buying to ensure your journey ends with a welcome mat at a place you can truly call your own.

Unlock the secrets to planting the seeds of financial wisdom in our youth with Melanie Moffett, our whirlwind of a Marketing Coordinator who's making waves in the community. In celebration of Youth Month, we're putting the spotlight on the need for early financial education, and Melanie is here to share how she's engaging young minds on this vital topic. With the help of our lovable mascot Sprout, we're guiding kids to understand the value of a dollar and the significance of saving, starting with some enticing April promotions that make opening a KidSaver account or getting a student debit card more rewarding than ever.

Our conversation with Melanie isn't just about piggy banks and allowance—prepare to navigate the more sophisticated aspects of financial literacy for youngsters. We discuss the tangible impact of financial responsibility when unforeseen expenses like Chromebook repairs arise, offering practical tips for kids to manage and grow their savings. Meanwhile, for parents fretting about oversight, we illuminate how the convenience of ATMs and ITMs can provide easy access to funds while still allowing parental control. As Youth Month marches on, let's commit to empowering the next generation with a robust financial toolkit that will serve them for life.

Unlock the secrets to a smooth path toward owning your first home, with guidance from Ashley Owens, the powerhouse Vice President of Mortgage at Centric. In our heartfelt discussion, she brings a trove of experience—16 years, to be exact—to demystify the home buying process. Ashley showcases Centric's unique offerings, like 100% financing options sans PMI, and how they intertwine with local real estate expertise to keep your budget in check. Her personalized approach to financial guidance doesn't just end with getting you a set of keys; it’s about nurturing the confidence to make well-informed decisions every step of the way.

Prepare to have all your home buying myths busted and your queries quelled, as we zoom in on the essentials of financial literacy for first-time buyers. Think of this episode as your personal advisory session, where we'll walk you through credit checks, savings tips for sprucing up your new space, and the unexpected costs that can crop up. Ashley's comprehensive rundown on pre-qualification illuminates the path from browsing listings to becoming a bona fide homeowner, while emphasizing the joy and achievement that come with purchasing your very own piece of the American dream.

Unlock the secret to a fatter tax refund and wiser financial future with Centric's CFO, Billy Joiner. As your savvy guide, Billy doesn't just break down the numbers; he brings to light the comprehensive value of being prepared with essential documents like 1099s and W-2s to ensure your tax return is not just timely but hits the mark for accuracy. Our conversation ventures into the diverse offerings at Centric, from financial counseling to the BizKids program, and paints a picture of a financial institution that's deeply invested in the economic prosperity of its community members. 

This episode is a treasure trove of strategies for maximizing your tax season winnings. We'll share why professional tax advice could be your holy grail to uncovering hidden deductions and how opting for direct deposit into a credit union can stretch your dollar further. Billy Joiner helps navigate the tricky waters of tax withholdings, providing actionable tips to adjust them in your favor during inflationary times. And for those pondering the smartest ways to use their tax refunds, we cover everything from extinguishing debt to bolstering your savings, ensuring that your financial decisions are both informed and intelligent. Join us and transform your approach to personal finance one tax season at a time.

Unlock the secrets to a thriving financial future with SVP Marketing Kelli Green, who joins us with her 16 years of finance acumen to navigate the complexities of credit health. Get ready to understand how your credit score shapes your economic opportunities and learn the ins and outs of installment debts versus revolving credit. We'll guide you through the importance of payment history and the subtle yet significant ways new credit lines can influence your score. If you've ever been puzzled by the financial decisions that pave the path to prosperity, this conversation is the key to clarifying those mysteries.

Embark on a journey with us that transcends the basics of credit card usage, delving into effective debt management strategies and the power of paying above the minimum. Discover how consolidating credit lines can streamline your finances and potentially lift your credit score. Our dialogue with Kelli Green doesn't just end with tips and tricks; it's an eye-opener to the harsh realities of a low credit score and the strategic moves one can make in the face of financial adversity. From fostering bank relationships for favorable credit terms to leveraging expert financial counseling, we're handing you the roadmap to not just survive, but thrive in the world of credit and overall financial well-being.

In Episode 324 of the "Live Better Podcast" from Centric FCU, host Emma explores the challenge of "Navigating Work-Life Balance." With guest speaker Lawrencia from Finding Solace Counseling, the episode provides practical tips for thriving in a harmonious work-life balance.

They discuss evolving work-life balance concepts and trends in today's workplaces, sharing personal experiences and lessons learned. The conversation emphasizes setting boundaries at work, employer roles in creating supportive environments, and effective communication of balance needs.

Key topics include time management, self-care, and using technology for productivity without sacrificing personal time. The episode recognizes signs of imbalance and burnout, offering prevention tips. The role of remote work in balance and common misconceptions are also addressed.

As the episode wraps up, Emma reinforces Centric's commitment to supporting listeners on their financial and well-being journey. The audience is encouraged to subscribe, share, and provide feedback for ongoing conversations on social media. Overall, Episode 324 is a practical guide for achieving a balanced work-life approach.