Money Matters

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Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Get ready to unlock the secrets to savvy cooking and smart budgeting with Anne Milneck of Red Stick Spice. We traverse Anne's inspiring leap from culinary aficionado to the proprietor of a gourmet grocery haven, serving up indispensable advice for enhancing your meals without breaking the bank. As food costs rise, our conversation is more timely than ever—packed with tips that will transform your kitchen practices, from reducing waste to creative meal planning that makes every dollar count.

Ever find yourself dismayed by the amount of food that ends up in the trash? Anne and I tackle this head-on, revealing how a 'stock bag' can turn scraps into rich homemade stock and discussing the power of proper food storage and labeling—techniques that not only minimize waste but also maximize flavor and freshness. We also unpack the art of managing bulk purchases, the merits of glass containers, and the glory of a well-utilized sheet pan to make your cooking routine as efficient as it is delicious.

If you're longing to keep your meals exciting without constantly reaching for the takeout menu, we've got you covered. Anne offers up her strategy for themed meals and the importance of a reliable fallback recipe, ensuring you've always got something up your sleeve for those hectic nights. We also step into the Red Stick Spice classroom, where cooking techniques are demystified for novices and food enthusiasts alike, proving that gourmet grocery stores are a treasure trove for anyone eager to learn. With these lessons in your apron pocket, you'll be cooking with confidence, reducing waste, and savoring every bite of your budget-friendly creations.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Get ready to redefine your shopping strategy with the queen of thrift, Betty, as we uncover the secrets to turning thrifting into your wallet's best friend. With inflation nibbling away at our wallets, Betty shares a goldmine of tips on how to score big savings and keep your expenses in check. We journey down memory lane with her, from her humble beginnings as a teenage thrift enthusiast to her current status as a thrifting mastermind, navigating the fine line between thrifting, vintage hunting, and retail shopping. She's not just talking the talk but walking us through the ins and outs of snagging those unique finds and why the best time to thrift might just be when you least expect it.

If you've ever doubted the thrill of the thrift, this episode is here to turn skeptics into believers. Learn how Betty's strategic moves, like scoping out thrift stores in affluent neighborhoods for high-quality treasures, can lead to the wardrobe revamp of your dreams. But it's not just about the clothes; we'll talk about the ins and outs of online thrifting, where Betty's savvy has unearthed luxury items from Japanese sellers that seem too good to be true. Yet, it's not all sunshine and rainbows; we tackle the potential pitfalls to avoid, highlighting the importance of staying vigilant with strict return policies and the necessity of vetting electronics before making the purchase.

As if thrifting wasn't exciting enough, imagine turning it into a lucrative side hustle. In the final segment, Betty opens up her playbook on the art of reselling. She reveals how your forgotten closet items could be your ticket to an extra income stream. We'll share the secrets to picking out items with high resale value and discuss the best strategies for turning a modest investment into a significant profit. From a $2 steal to a $300 turnaround, the potential is staggering. So join us as we promise to not just talk about these strategies but put them to the test in a few months' time, when we'll bring our thrifting chronicles to life on YouTube, sharing the spoils of our money-saving, money-making adventures.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Get ready to navigate the complexities of tax season with confidence as we bring CPA extraordinaire Ms. Jody Buckner into the Money Matters fold. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to avoid common pitfalls and make the most of their tax returns. We're not just talking about crunching numbers; we delve into the art of timing your filings, organizing your financial life like a pro, and the savvy moves that can enhance your financial well-being throughout the year. With Jody's expert guidance, you'll understand why sometimes a big refund isn't the win you might think it is and how adjusting your withholdings could be the smarter play.

When it's time to tackle those tax forms, do you find yourself swimming in a sea of receipts and regulations? Fear not, our discussion with Jody Buckner is your lifeline. She shares the secrets of a stress-free tax season with year-round strategies that go beyond the typical shoebox of receipts. We're talking about the power of digital organization and the overlooked credits that could be game-changers for your finances. Plus, we get into the nitty-gritty of whether to itemize or not to itemize—that is the question we answer, along with a peek into investment strategies that could defer your tax liabilities.

For the entrepreneurial spirits and small business owners tuning in, we've tailored this episode with your unique challenges in mind. Jody's tips on meticulous tracking and staying current with tax law changes are invaluable. We demystify the IRS, transform audit anxieties into audit preparedness, and underscore the peace of mind that comes from a strong CPA relationship. From choosing the right filing status to strategizing your deductions, this episode equips you with the tools to keep your finances flourishing. So, join us as we turn what could be your most dreaded time of the year into an opportunity for financial optimization.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Prepare to transform a dream windfall into a lasting legacy as attorney Kurt Panouses
 joins us to chart a course through the exhilarating, yet treacherous, terrain of sudden lottery wealth. Hitting the jackpot might be a one-in-a-million chance, but squandering that newfound fortune is all too common. Kurt, wielding his dual expertise in accounting and law, equips us with an arsenal of tools to fend off financial fiascos. From the critical choice between lump sum and annuity options to the subtleties of sharing wealth and navigating office pools, this episode is a treasure map to maintaining your fortune for generations.

Chances are you've never considered joining two country clubs for the sake of privacy, but for lottery winners, such maneuvers are part of a new reality fraught with unique challenges. We explore the personal transformations that come with massive cash inflows, emphasizing the importance of a spending plan that secures your future while allowing for enjoyment. The 'six-month rule' is dissected, showcasing the art of balancing the thrill of a jackpot with the prudence of financial planning. Kurt shares poignant anecdotes and stern warnings, revealing that the most formidable opponent of a lottery winner is often their impulsive generosity.

As we sail towards the episode's conclusion, we tackle the dark underbelly of lottery winnings—the scams. Our gratitude goes out to Kurt, whose sage advice leaves us not just wise to the ways of wealth management, but also vigilant against those who prey on the unsuspecting millionaire-next-door. You'll leave armed with the knowledge to distinguish between legitimate lotteries and fraudulent fantasies, ensuring that when it comes to your ticket to paradise, you won't be left holding a counterfeit. Tune in to this episode to forge your financial savvy in the fires of fortune's favor.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Who says frugality can't be fun? Jen and Jill, the dynamic duo from the Frugal Friends podcast, join us to flip the script on saving pennies and show how it's truly about managing resources with intention. Our conversation promises to redefine your spending habits, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck without sacrificing the things that bring you joy. We tackle the big-ticket items in life—homes, cars, and daily sustenance—with a focus on aligning purchases with personal values, ensuring that each dollar spent is a step toward financial wellness and happiness.

Prepare to be armed with strategies that will transform your approach to impactful purchases. It's not just about the initial price tag; it's about the art of avoiding emotional spending and paying attention to the details that can save you thousands in the long run. Jen and Jill share their wisdom on how they saved big on vehicles and homes by researching, preparing, and staying unattached. They also get real about their own experiences and how those lessons have fueled their frugal living philosophy, from rejecting needless add-ons to strategically timing purchases to maximize savings.

As we wrap up, don't miss the scoop on Jen and Jill's Frugal Friends podcast and newsletter, which are treasure troves of financial wisdom and savvy spending tips. Their approach to value-based spending is not just about finding the lowest price, but investing in quality and utility. We discuss the pitfalls of impulse buying, especially during the tax refund season when temptations run high. Plus, they tease their upcoming book and recommend a podcast episode that's a must-listen for anyone looking to curb impulsive spending. Trust us, after this chat, you'll view your wallet and your life through a fresh, frugal lens.

Visit the Frugal Friends
Get the Friendletter

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Navigate the financial fog with expert guidance from Atalia Williams and Cynthia Marshall, the vice presidents who help to steer the ship at Neighbors Federal Credit Union's Collections and Support Center. Imagine a roadmap that not only helps you steer clear of fiscal pitfalls but also shines a light on the hidden alleys of credit union intricacies. That's what you'll get in this empowering episode, where Atalia charts her 17-year odyssey through the financial trenches and reveals why an in-house collections team spells triumph for both the credit union and its members. Cynthia, on the other hand, opens the vault on the Support Center's diverse operations, from IRAs to handling sensitive matters like deceased accounts, all while prioritizing an exceptional member experience. 

This financial quest doesn't end there. Prepare to delve into the thorny thicket of cross-collateralization where loans, deposits, and personal rights intersect. We unravel a real-world scenario that spotlights the ripple effects of loan defaults on your assets. But fear not, for we also arm you with the tools to connect with collection agents who are ready to throw you a lifeline, be it through a reassuring phone chat or a face-to-face branch visit. The episode is a treasure trove of strategies to help you break free from monetary constraints, ensuring you're well-informed and prepared to navigate the choppy waters of your financial journey.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Unlock the untapped potential within your high schooler as we traverse the exhilarating world of youth entrepreneurship with Dana Schloterer, from the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA), and the inventive Caroline Sanchez of Crazy Cajun Confections. Our engaging dialogue not only peels back the curtain on YEA's inception and its symbiotic alliances with academia and commerce but also sets the stage for the meteoric rise of teen business savvy. Dana paints a vivid picture of the academy's nurturing environment, where bright young minds are refined into business owners, armed with real-world experience and seed funding. Caroline, a YEA alumna, brings to the table her appetizing narrative of transforming a hobby into a buzzing enterprise, serving up a slice of inspiration for any budding entrepreneur.

Feel the pulse of ambition as we share the limelight with YEA's spirited graduates, who have pivoted from humble beginnings to strategic, profit-conscious magnates. The air crackles with the energy of success stories, including a fashion brand catching the public's eye and a service business scaling new heights. The conversation segues into the high-stakes pitch competitions that have become a launchpad for these young tycoons, with Caroline's experience accentuating the invaluable life skills honed in the process. As we touch upon these narratives, we illustrate the profound transformation experienced by the students—growing in confidence and eloquence, ready to take on the world of business.

Ever noticed a child who seems to operate on a different wavelength, brimming with innovative ideas and a relentless drive? This episode is where you'll find out how these traits can be the early indicators of an entrepreneurial spirit waiting to be sculpted. We delve into the nurturing process at YEA that helps young minds channel their creativity, independence, and strategic thinking into successful business ventures. As Caroline recounts her ascent with Crazy Cajun Confections and the influential role of social media in her enterprise, it's clear that the entrepreneurial journey begins with recognizing potential—and YEA is where potential flourishes into excellence. Join us for a conversation that might just spark the entrepreneurial fire in a young mind near you.

Visit the Young Entrepreneurs Academy site.

Apply to participate in YEA

Crazy Cajun Confections: Facebook | Instagram

Two Sistas Pepper Jelly: Facebook | Instagram

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Unlock the secrets to entrepreneurship with business consultant extraordinaire Mr. Bob Breaux, our distinguished guest on Money Matters. His journey from a paper route to owning several companies brings a unique perspective to the show, where he candidly shares the highs and lows of his business ventures. As we unpack each chapter, seasoned and aspiring entrepreneurs alike will gain invaluable advice on creating robust business plans and the importance of resilience in overcoming the trials of entrepreneurship.

Venture into the world of business ownership as we dissect the recent surge in post-pandemic start-ups and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives them. Together with Mr. Breaux, we expose common myths about entrepreneurship, like the fallacy that starting a business always requires a hefty bankroll. Our conversation traverses the practical steps of selecting a business structure and the critical role of personal financial health. The stories of persistent founders and the realities of long work hours shed light on the dedication needed to thrive.

In our final chapter, we discuss the transformative shift from working in your business to working on it. This episode isn't just about fueling passion but also about cultivating efficient business systems that are key to sustainable growth. Mr. Breaux and I provide a roadmap for anyone ready to embark on their entrepreneurial quest, from assessing market demand to understanding your financial readiness. Join us to harness the collective wisdom of those who've navigated the entrepreneurial landscape and emerged victorious.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. 

Have you ever considered what happens when a person re-enters society after being incarcerated, particularly from a financial perspective? Today's episode of Money Matters brings this often-overlooked issue to the forefront of our conversations. We're joined by Christie Cheramie, Aaron Hauser, and Demetricy Moore who bravely recount their personal experiences with financial management, banking, and technology before, during, and after their periods of incarceration. They give us a first-hand look at the importance of financial literacy amongst those who have been behind bars and shed light on the incredible work carried out by the Louisiana Parole Project.

The revolution in banking technology hasn't left anyone untouched, and our guests aren't an exception. They take us back to their younger days, sharing memories of their initial encounters with banking and how the digital era has transformed their financial practices. The conversation doesn't stop there - we also examine the financial world within the prison walls, understanding the intricacies of earning minimal wages and managing money while incarcerated. As we step beyond those walls, we learn about the significant hurdles faced by our guests when they attempted to re-establish themselves in the banking system, and how financial education made all the difference.

As we wrap up this insightful episode, we turn our focus to the financial trials and hardships that those who have served time often encounter. We discuss the essence of credit scores, budgeting, and investing, and the urgent need for financial education and support for those reintegrating into society. To close, we arm our listeners with some practical financial advice and resources for formerly incarcerated individuals, including setting financial goals, making a budget, and building an emergency fund, setting them on the pathway to financial independence. We're confident you'll find these stories impactful and the discussions illuminating, casting a light on a critical issue that deserves more attention. So, tune in, and let's talk Money Matters!

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. 

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.