In this episode of MakingCents, guest host Thomas Racca, Manager of Personal Finance Management at Navy Federal, sits down with Heather Long, Chief Economist at Navy Federal, to break down the financial landscape heading into 2026. Together, they outline why households feel squeezed, what’s changed in the economy, and the practical steps you can take to reset your budget, tackle debt, and rebuild savings using tools like our Emergency Fund Calculator and Mission: Credit Confidence® dashboard.

Thomas and Heather also open up about the personal experiences that shaped how they think about money today. From early missteps to hard‑earned lessons, they reflect on how those moments influence the guidance they give members—and why the supportive, member‑focused approach of a credit union can make navigating finances feel more grounded and attainable.

• Budgeting for Financial Wellness (16:26)
• Strategies for Financial Resilience (24:48) 
• Navigating Homeownership Challenges (33:26)

Ready to start the year strong? Explore resources designed to help you take control of your financial goals.

·         Free Personal Financial Counseling

·         My MakingCents

·         Monthly Spending Calculator

In this episode of MakingCents, guest host Clay Stackhouse, Marine veteran and Regional Outreach Manager at Navy Federal, joins Jesse Border, Army veteran and AVP of Branch Operations, and Tracy Owens, Navy veteran and Senior Programs Manager at Support The Enlisted Project (STEP). Together, they share practical strategies and resources to help veterans and their families thrive. You’ll hear insights on financial planning for servicemembers making the transition, how Navy Federal provides personalized banking and planning tools, and STEP’s mission to promote financial self-sufficiency and holistic support for military families. Plus, Clay, Jesse, and Tracy open up about their own experiences, offering real-world perspective and advice.

·         From Combat Boots to Corporate Life (00:03)

·         Meet the Heroes Behind the Mic (3:06)

·         Your Transition Toolkit (8:37)

·         Impact Beyond Service (12:49)

Ready for your next chapter? Check out our expert resources designed to support transitioning servicemembers.

·         Transitioning From Military to Civilian Life

·         Financial Checklist for Military Transition: Planning for Veterans and Retirees

·         How to Start a Business as a Veteran

Cybersecurity might seem complex, but with a few simple steps, you can protect what matters most. In observance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month and just ahead of the holiday shopping season—we explore how planning ahead and being proactive can help protect your financial future and personal identity. From password hygiene to recognizing scams, our experts at Navy Federal Credit Union share practical tips to help you safeguard your personal and financial data with confidence. This episode, we’re chatting up with Carrie Foran Sepulveda as she shares her personal experiences with fraud and scams while offering relatable insights and actionable advice to help you stay protected.

·         Understanding Fraud and Cybersecurity (00:18)

·         Identifying and Responding to Fraud (10:03)

·         The Evolving Landscape of Cyber Threats (15:23)

·         Proactive Measures for Holiday Spending (20:41)

Check out our cybersecurity and fraud resources which give members a one-stop spot to protect their identity, manage risk, and keep their finances secure. 

·         Privacy and Security Resources

·         Fraud Resources

·         All Things Cybersecurity

Financial planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right guidance, it’s more manageable than you think. In this episode, we’re diving into the how and why of planning ahead can empower you to stay aligned with your financial goals. From smart investing to effective debt management, discover how our expert financial planners can help you stay focused, confident, and on track.

• Understanding Financial Goals: Short-term vs Long-term (3:08)
• Navigating Major Life Milestones (9:02)
• Inheritance and Estate Planning (18:08)
• The Role of Financial Advisors (26:49)

Explore how these Navy Federal Investment Services* can help you stay the course of your money goals. 

• Navy Federal Investment Services
• Digital Investor 
• Find an Advisor  
• NFIS Disclosures

*Investments are only sold through Navy Federal Investment Services. Investment products are not insured, not obligations of NFCU, and may lose value.

Managing your finances today is easier, more intuitive, and more personalized than ever. In this episode, we explore how our digital services can help you stay on track with your financial goals. From intuitive mobile banking to advanced budgeting tools, discover how we’ve modernized the way you can manage your money.

• Generational Engagement (3:30)
• New Enhancements in Member Experience (6:10)
• Resources for New Members (13:20) 
• Security Innovations (16:14)

Explore the new features in our all-in-one financial hub that can help our members budget, build their credit profiles (1*), and reach financial goals. (2*)

• Digital Banking Tutorials (2*)
• Checking Account Resources
• How to Enroll in Digital Banking (2*)
• Digital Security Tips

1. Recurring Payment Reporting Tool Disclosure *

2. Message and data rates may apply. Visit navyfederal.org for more information.*

In this episode, we break down one of the most common financial decisions many families face—buying a car. Two experts in the consumer lending space at Navy Federal, Joe Pendergast and Kevin Wince, share their insights into the car buying process.

• Leasing versus Buying (0:45)
• Navigating the Car Buying Process (5:16)
• Auto Financing for the Military Community (11:04)
• Right Time to Shop (21:21)

With modern tools and the right strategy to back you up, you can get behind the wheel of your own car without much trouble.

• Leasing vs. Buying a Car – Pros and Cons
• Car Buying: How a Preapproval Can Put You in the Fast Lane
• The Servicemember’s Guide to Car Buying
• When Is the Best Time to Buy a Car?
• Test Drive Your Finance Options

When you’re ready to apply for financing, Navy Federal Credit Union is here for you. Learn how to apply and search for cars domestically and internationally.

Disclosures:

• Credit and collateral subject to approval.
• Active Duty and Retired Military Member discount
• Senior Enlisted Program discount
• CARFAX Vehicle History Reports™
• Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP)

Emily Bigham sits down with guest Thomas Racca, Manager, Personal Finance Management, to share tips on how to budget for travel plans, earn extra money for your travel funds and stretch your vacation dollars further so you can plan an affordable trip without compromising the fun. Here’s what we’re covering this episode: 

·       Creating a Realistic Travel Budget (2:04) 

·       Automating Saving and Utilizing Credit Cards (8:11) 

·       Budget-Friendly Activities (14:53) 

·       Using AI as a Travel Agent (22:08)

If you're planning to travel, Navy Federal Credit Union shows you how to save for your trip and secure your finances while traveling. 

·       Top Travel Tips to Save You Money and Make Your Trip a Success

·       Save to Make Your Dream Vacation a Reality

·       A Beginner’s Guide to Using Credit Card Points for Travel

·       Vacation Security Essentials

Navy Federal Credit Union® Credit Card Disclosures

In this episode, guest host and Retired Marine One Pilot, Clay Stackhouse takes a moment to honor those who serve in our military and the families who support them. Together with Chelsea Smith, Marketing Specialist and military spouse at Navy Federal, they share their personal stories and how we’re connected to those who serve. 

• Guest Background (:32) 
• Understanding Our Members (9:46)
• USO Partnership (11:25)

Whether you’re deployed, relocating or transitioning to civilian life, you'll find support for military families at Navy Federal—it's what we do.

• Active Duty & Military Families Resources and Benefits 
• Military Life – MakingCents  
• USO Letter Writing Campaign 

Spring is in the air, so it's the perfect time to refresh your financial goals and give your savings plan a thorough spring clean. CJ Pointkowski, assistant vice president of savings products operations, and Thomas Racca, manager of personal finance management, join the podcast to share 3 approaches members can use to get a head start on reaching their financial goals.

• Spring Clean Your Finances (2:46)
• Smart Saving Strategies (12:05)
• Right Saving Tools (16:50) 

Navy Federal has the tools to help you stay on track. Whether it's setting up an automatic transfer to a savings account, reviewing your current savings plan or exploring a new savings product, you’ll find great resources to help you stay on top of your money.

• MakingCents: A financial education hub with comprehensive resources, calculators and articles to explore. 
• My MakingCents: Total money management in one place, a member-only benefit providing a 360-degree view of your finances. 
• Free Personalized Finance Counseling: This members-only benefit connects you with a counselor for support tailored to you.                  

*Investments are only sold through Navy Federal Investment Services. Investment products are not insured, not obligations of NFCU, and may lose value.

Navy Federal Credit Union’s ROTC All-American Scholarship Program honors the best and brightest ROTC seniors across the nation. Since 2018, the program has received nearly 1,300 ROTC student nominations and donated over $540,000 to ROTC cadets. Navy Federal chooses 15 finalists—five per branch of military service—to become ROTC All-American Scholarship recipients. 

Brandi joins the 2024 ROTC All-American Scholarship Program ‘Students of the Year’, who were selected as the top Air Force, Army and Navy/Marine students. Tune in to learn more about these students who best embody the pillars of the program: Leadership, Military Excellence, Scholarship and Service.