Money Matters

Have you ever pondered the possibility of a debt-free college education for yourself or maybe your child? Join us on this enlightening journey with seasoned academic strategist Jeannie Burlowski, author of "Launch: How to Get Your Kids Through College Debt-Free and Into Jobs They Love Afterward." Together, we'll investigate the staggering realities of student loan debt and celebrate some astounding success stories of students who've attained that coveted university degree without a penny of debt. Get ready to rethink college financing as we explore the invaluable role of an academic strategist in helping students achieve their dreams without a financial nightmare.

We spare no detail in our pursuit of comprehensive financial planning. We'll take a deep dive into the impact of a child's college education on parents' retirement savings. Let us equip you with tips on choosing the right college, starting to save early, and even using non-saving methods like UPromise.com - all while steering clear of debt pitfalls. Our mission is to prove that with careful planning and a dash of resourcefulness, it's entirely feasible to financially prepare for a college education.

We cap off our discussion with a thorough guide on the scholarship application process, offering practical advice on where to scout for them and how to write successful essays. We underscore the importance of understanding the financial aid system's evaluation period and how to strategically manage your assets during that time. Moreover, we'll explore abundant alternatives to student loans. From scholarships, grants, part-time work, employer tuition assistance to joining the military for education benefits - the options are plentiful. So, tune in, and let's rewrite the story of your child's college journey together!

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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. 

Ever wonder what it would be like to dive headfirst into the electrifying world of cryptocurrency trading? We're thrilled to be joined by Jamar James, a seasoned trader and influencer who has not only done it, but thrived. We break down the simple and complex aspects of digital currency, from its volatile nature to its potential for wealth creation. Jamar pulls back the curtain on his journey and the benefits of living off cryptocurrency. Plus, he offers a glimpse into his DCG Trading Mastermind community that offers a platform for like-minded traders to connect and learn.

We're going beyond trading cryptocurrency in this episode. How secure is your crypto? We tackle this burning question and delve into the scams lurking in the crypto space. With the rise of decentralized finance, we forecast the potential impact of digital currency on traditional financial institutions, detailing the higher returns for users and strategies to transition users into the crypto world. Jamar offers invaluable insights on the future of cryptocurrency, its security, adoption, and the shift towards decentralized finance.

Transitioning from traditional currency to cryptocurrency can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. We share tips for a smooth transition, including educating yourself about blockchain technology, starting with a small portion of your savings, and investing in a reputable hardware wallet to secure your assets. If you're a beginner, Jamar's seven-day challenge is a game-changer. It's designed to help you understand the basics of crypto, from understanding tokens and coins to trading and securing your assets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by or interested in the world of cryptocurrency. Expect discussions on the future of crypto, government regulation, and mass adoption that will surely stimulate your crypto curiosity.

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

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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. 

When it comes to divorce, most people envision a battlefield of emotions and legal terms. We dive into the complexities of this life-altering event with our guest, Seth Nelson, an experienced divorce attorney. Seth unravels the intricate financial implications of divorce, reminding us that viewing separation as a win-lose situation will only lead to losses on both sides. He offers crucial insights into local laws and equitable distribution - a concept that can dramatically shape a divorce's outcome.

A divorce doesn't only affect the couple involved, but also the innocent bystanders - the children. Seth sheds light on the often overlooked financial impacts on children’s futures, discussing effective strategies for planning for significant future expenses like college fees. He also broadens the conversation by touching upon same-sex couples and the financial challenges they too face during a divorce. Indeed, no one is immune to the financially turbulent waters of divorce, and Seth's expert advice provides some much-needed guidance.

Finally, the episode takes an unexpected turn as we delve into Seth's personal experience with divorce. His candid recounting of negotiating with his attorney shines a light on the importance of legal counsel during this tumultuous period. Seth also emphasizes the significance of understanding alimony implications, particularly when considering remarriage, and provides tips for living within your means during the recovery process. It's not every day you get advice from an attorney who's been in the trenches, making this episode an invaluable resource for those navigating the financial labyrinth of divorce. Tune in and equip yourself with knowledge and strategies to handle divorce more effectively.

Our guest Seth Nelson is the managing partner at NLG Divorce & Family Law as well as the host of the terrific How to Split a Toaster podcast.

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. 

Ever wondered how to navigate the labyrinth of life insurance? Well, strap in as we break down the complexities of policies, premiums, and payouts and make it as simple as ABC. We're joined by the seasoned life insurance expert, John Ensley, whose wealth of knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions around your financial security. We delve into the three primary types of life insurance - term life, whole life, and universal life - giving you the tools to decide which coverage best suits your needs.

Are you curious about the nitty-gritty of life insurance? Brace yourselves as John peels back the layers on insurance companies' data requests, the boons of a whole life policy, and the frequency of policy reviews. We'll also shed light on the stringent regulations insurance companies must comply with when investing premiums and the fate of a policy if you have a loan against it at the time of your demise. We guarantee you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of life insurance and the myriad of options at your disposal.

Fear not, we've got your back when it comes to life insurance red flags. Together with John, we navigate the fine print of insurance policies, from contestability periods and suicide clauses to grace periods and hidden fees and costs. We'll also scrutinize the specifics of different policies and how they can be terminated or changed during their term. Plus, we'll guide you through the claims process and discuss considerations for those aged 80 and above. We wrap up with John offering a free 30-minute strategy session for listeners who want to dig deeper. Join us to gain the confidence and competence to select the right life insurance policy for you!

John Ensley, ChFC®
John Ensley Financial
JumpOnWithJohn.com

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 gourmet meals are restricted to restaurant dining only? Tune in as we unravel the secret to crafting restaurant-quality meals right in your comfort zone with the Louisiana Culinary Institute's very own, Chef Dave Tiner! Dave will introduce you to the affordable and delightful cooking classes offered by the institute, designed to suit everyone from beginners to culinary experts. Here's the cherry on top - you won't just learn to whip up delicious meals, you'll take home enough to feed a family of four!

Beyond the cooking classes, we plunge deeper into the world of culinary education at the Louisiana Culinary Institute, which offers degrees and certifications in international cuisine, charcuterie, and American regional. Chef Dave, like a true culinary gem, will share his invaluable tips for enhancing your cooking skills. So, if you're itching to push your culinary prowess up a notch, this episode is your perfect recipe! Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

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 thought about the psychological impact your relationship with money has on your life? Money, our guest Myiesha Beard, a licensed professional counselor, points out, is deeply entangled with our emotions and family dynamics - and it's high time we explore this profound connection. A fascinating journey awaits you as we discuss everything from family dynamics affecting our money habits to financial trauma and its signs.

The conversation gets intriguing as we delve into the complex world of financial stress, anxiety, and how these elements influence our money management strategies. With Myiesha's expertise guiding us, we uncover the varied money personalities, the impact of fear of money, and the intricacies of compulsive spending and saving. Information-packed and eye-opening, this discussion could be your ticket to understanding and improving your relationship with money.

Finally, we conclude the podcast with valuable advice on addressing financial issues promptly and understanding the importance of preventive measures. Myiesha helps us understand the psychological aspects of ignoring creditors and why it's essential to seek help before it’s too late. With practical tips and valuable insights, this episode transforms the daunting world of finance into a realm of understanding and control, leaving you equipped to embrace a healthier financial future. Get ready to shatter preconceived notions and embark on a journey of financial enlightenment with Myiesha Beard.

Guest:
Myiesha Beard, Licensed professional counselor
Restore Counseling Services

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. 

Guest:
Jerry Linebaugh
Founder, CEO, Financial Advisor and Fiduciary
Game Changer Wealth

Ever wondered how you can retain absolute control over your assets, both in life and beyond? Well, you're in the right place. We welcome back our astute guest, Jerry Linebaugh, a guru in wealth management, to unravel this mystery. Jerry expertly illuminates the often-overlooked significance of having a power of attorney to prevent costly blunders and keep your assets in the right hands. He further breaks down complex concepts related to wills and trusts, giving you a comprehensive understanding of how they shield your assets from falling into the state’s hands.

Isn't it disheartening to think that your hard-earned assets may end up in the wrong hands due to a mere oversight? This episode reveals a compelling narrative of a couple who encountered unintended consequences due to outdated beneficiary information. Jerry also accentuates how pivotal it is to routinely review your beneficiary designations on key documents like wills, 401ks, life insurance policies, and several others. We also take a shot at busting common estate and financial planning myths, reinforcing the importance of a well-crafted plan to evade heavy costs and complications for your loved ones.

As we wrap up this enriching conversation, Jerry paves the path for you with specific pointers to kickstart your estate planning journey. He drives home the point that it's never too early to initiate this dialogue and the importance of roping in all essential family members. Understand each relative's desires and establish mutual understanding within the family about the proposed plan. This action-packed episode leaves you with the know-how to safeguard your assets effectively and guarantee your family's financial stability. Tune in and take the first step towards ensuring a secure financial future for yourself and your loved ones!

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. 

Are you aware that teachers often spend hundreds of dollars from their own pockets to set up classrooms? We unravel the remarkable programs offered by Neighbors FCU that aim to alleviate this burden. From the unique Mascot Checking Program to Project Grants for Public Schools, Betty Mujica-Milano of Neighbors lays out how these initiatives not only help schools financially but also promote financial literacy among students.

We are also joined by Jason St Pierre, the Principal of Walker High School, who shares how having a Neighbors branch on campus has helped fund innovative educational projects. Imagine, every swipe of a card contributing to the funding of exciting initiatives like a TV program, a drone program, or a robotics team! Also, Hagar Brown Anderson, the Vice President of the McKinley High School Alumni Association, gives us an insight into how Alumni Associations can significantly contribute to schools through the use of the Mascot Checking program.

In the final part of our conversation, we delve into the details of securing a grant from Neighbors Federal Credit Union. Betty demystifies the application process and outlines the types of projects that the grants can fund. Jason and Hagar further enrich our discussion by sharing their firsthand experiences with the programs and how the programs have been instrumental in providing resources to students. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or an alumni wanting to support their alma mater, this episode has something for you. Tune in, and let's collectively make a difference to our schools and our future!

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. 

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the recent developments in student loans? Well, we've got you covered. In our latest episode, we welcome Deborah Paul, Scholarship and Grant Director from the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance, to break down the complexities of student loan management. What does the Supreme Court's decision to block one-time student loan debt relief mean for you? How will the resumption of payments and interest accumulation in September affect your financial planning? We've got the answers. We also delve into critical information for those new to loan repayments, explaining the purpose of exit counseling and providing tips to locate your loan servicer.

We're not stopping there. We'll guide you through the Save Repayment Plan - a lifesaver for those earning less than $32,800 a year for single earners and $67,500 a year for families of four. We'll demystify the terms 'deferment' and 'forbearance' and shed light on the requirements for loan forgiveness. And if you're starting to feel the pinch of repayment, we'll share practical tips on managing it, like adjusting your payment plan to minimize monthly outgoings or recertifying your income-driven repayment plan. To ensure you're well-informed, we've curated a list of government websites, including studentaid.gov, nslds.ed.gov, and mylosfa.la.gov, which can be indispensable tools in your student loan journey. Join us in this crucial conversation. Together, let's demystify student loan debt.

Guest Deborah Paul, scholarship and grant director with the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance

myLOSFA.la.gov

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 thought about how to make the most out of your Medicare benefits? We promise you that this episode of Money Matters will equip you with all the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your Medicare plans. We have the pleasure of hosting John Stockwell and Jennifer Lindsay from Stockwell Insurance, as they simplify the often complex world of Medicare. They give us a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria, various parts of the program, as well as the deductibles and copays involved.

The devil is in the details, and when it comes to Medicare enrollment, it's no different. Have you wondered about the implications of not enrolling at 65? Or, have you ever asked what the 10-year or 40-quarter requirement for eligibility means for you? There's no need to worry. We address all these topics and more, including other enrollment periods, waivers for low-income individuals, and valuable information contained within the Medicare handbook.

Lastly, but definitely not least, we want to ensure that you are safeguarded against Medicare fraud. You'll find out why it's crucial to delve into your plan's network of doctors and prescriptions. We also shed light on the warning signs of fraudulent activity. Grab a notepad because we also share resources for further research and discuss the benefits of five-star rated Medicare Advantage plans. Also, discover the benefits of early enrollment and the advantages of attending a free class to better understand how your Medicare benefits work. Get ready for a deep dive into everything Medicare!

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.