Perfect Cents Podcast

Are you facing job loss, the rising financial stress, or unexpected bills? You don't have to handle it alone. On this episode of the Perfect Cents Podcast, host Alex Becerra welcomes SAFE Loan Service Manager, Amber Mitchell to discuss how to partner with your financial institution during tough times.

Topics include:

• Communication is Key: Loan servicing departments call out of care to find flexible solutions, not to penalize you.
• Flexible Options: Programs like Skip-A-Pay move your payment to the end of the loan term, protecting your credit.
• Community Support: Local credit unions focus on tailored, win-win outcomes for their neighbors.

SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender.

Community & Local Favorites:

Thai Hut (Sacramento)

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

To watch this episode in video-format and access more financial education tips, subscribe to the SAFE Credit Union YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SAFECreditUnionCA

Is the Sacramento housing market finally cooling down, or are we entering a significant period of transition? On this episode of the Perfect Cents Podcast, host Alex Becerra sits down with renowned housing analyst and certified appraiser Ryan Lundquist to break down the latest Sacramento real estate trends.

With over 20 years of local experience, Ryan provides a data-backed look at why the current market is shifting from a fast-paced environment to a much tighter, inventory-strained landscape. Whether you are a first-time buyer or a seller trying to understand local appraisal trends, this interview offers the technical analysis you won't find in viral headlines.

Topics include:

• Market Inventory Dynamics: Why low supply coupled with low demand is creating a unique state of "normal."
• Regional Growth Drivers: The massive population shift toward Roseville and the ongoing transformation of downtown Loomis.
• The Bay Area Effect: How migration patterns from the coast continue to influence Sacramento home prices.
• Buying Strategy for 2026: Why a 20% down payment isn't a requirement and how to navigate the current entry-level market.
• Luxury Market Trends: An analysis of million-dollar sales and where the top 10% of the market is heading.

About the Guest: Ryan Lundquist is a certified residential appraiser and housing market analyst in the Sacramento area. Ryan runs the Sacramento Appraisal Blog, which is a top-ranking appraisal blog in the United States. He is a member of the Real Estate Appraisers Association of Sacramento. His clients include homeowners, real estate agents, CPAs, and attorneys. In his spare time, Ryan does woodworking. He also loves to walk.

SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender.

Community & Local Favorites:

Shangri-La (Fair Oaks)

High-Hand Cafe (Loomis)

High-Hand Brewing Company (Loomis)

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

To see this episode in our new video format visit: Sacramento Housing Market Update: Trends & Analysis with Ryan Lundquist (YouTube)

To view Ryan's official website and read his latest blog visit: Sacramento Appraisal Blog

To like, share, and subscribe to SAFE Credit Union's official YouTube page visit: SAFE Credit Union (YouTube)

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

Are you torn between the convenience of a fintech app and the personalized service of a credit union? In this episode of the Perfect Cents Podcast, host Alex Becerra is joined by Marcus Webb, Branch Manager at SAFE Credit Union's Granite Bay location.

With over 24 combined years of experience, they break down the shifting financial landscape—from the rise of "niche" apps like Rocket Money and Chime to why having a face-to-face relationship still carries immense "intangible value" in a digital world.

Topics include:

• Defining Fintech: Why younger consumers are drawn to specialized, one-dimensional digital tools.
• The "Data Point" Problem: The difference between being a member of a community and just another entry in an algorithm.
• The Credit Union Philosophy: How not-for-profit institutions prioritize the person over the profit.
• Life's Milestones: How a dedicated financial partner helps you navigate buying a first car, planning a wedding, or starting a family.

About the Guest: Marcus Webb is a veteran in the banking industry with 12 years of experience. He currently serves as the Branch Manager for the SAFE Credit Union Granite Bay branch, focusing on community-based growth and member success.

SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender.

Community & Local Favorites:

R-Vida Cantina

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

Are you ready to stop paying your landlord's mortgage and start building your own equity? In this episode of the Perfect Cents Podcast, host Alex Becerra sits down with SAFE Credit Union Home Loan Manager Casey Jenkins to demystify the journey to homeownership.

Whether you're worried about your credit score or struggling to save for a down payment, this discussion provides a clear roadmap for anyone looking to secure their first set of house keys.

Topics include:

• Why your "bad credit" might actually be better than you think.
• The real cost of renting vs. the long-term benefits of home equity.
• How to balance paying off debt while saving for a down payment.
• Why working with a mortgage advisor can help you create a winning plan.

About the Guest: With over 15 years of experience, Casey shares why the "boring" logistics of mortgages—rates, terms, and payments—are actually powerful tools to help you reach financial freedom.

SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender.

Community & Local Favorites:

Zócalo - Modern Mexican Hospitality

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

Beyond Everyday Banking Blog - SAFE Home Loan Consultants Help You Every Step of the Way

For details about SAFE HomeRewards, visit: SAFE HomeRewards

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

On this episode of the Perfect Cents Podcast, host Alex Becerra sits down with Lawrence Lomeli, AVP of Consumer Lending at SAFE Credit Union, to break down the complex world of borrowing and credit to help you build financial freedom for your future.

Topics include:

• Borrowing as a Tool: Why credit should be viewed as leverage for big-ticket items like homes, cars, and education rather than a source of anxiety.
• Credit Score Factors: A deep dive into what influences your score, including repayment history, credit mix, and the depth of your profile.
• The Benefits of High Credit: How a strong score leads to better interest rates, lower costs, and more options from financial institutions.
• Overcoming Challenges: Understanding that credit is a journey and that past hardships like medical issues or setbacks are not a reflection of your self-worth.
• Red Flags to Avoid: Critical warnings about the dangers of payday loans and using credit for everyday living expenses like groceries and gas.

About the Guest: Lawrence Lomeli brings over 35 years of industry experience to the conversation, specializing in signature, personal, and auto loans. Resources: For more information on financial products and services, visit safecu.org to schedule an appointment with a professional expert today.

SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender.

Community & Local Favorites:

Land Ocean - New American Grill

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

Are you looking to improve your financial health but don't know where to start? In this episode, join host Alex and special guest Marcie Johnson (Debit and Credit Program Manager at SAFE Credit Union,) as they discuss why mindful spending is the absolute foundation of long-term financial wellness. Whether you're a parent teaching your kids about money or just trying to navigate the convenience of digital payments, this conversation offers practical strategies for everyone.

Topics include:

• The Three Spending Zones: How to categorize your expenses into essential, flexible, and emergency spending.
• Mindfulness & Money: Why taking a moment to think before you "tap" can prevent overspending in a world of Apple Pay and Google Pay.
• Strategic Tools: How to use mobile banking alerts and card notifications to keep your budget on track.
• Needs vs. Wants: Tips for differentiating between what you truly need and what can wait for a better time.

Community & Local Favorites:

• Supporting Local Arts - Marcie discusses the positive community impact of Rocklin Community Theatre, a local nonprofit where her children participate.
• Local Eats - The episode wraps up with a nod to Thai Basil, a favorite local dining spot.

SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender.

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

Rocklin Community Theatre

Thai Basil: Fresh, Authentic, Thai

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

On this episode of The Perfect Cents Podcast, host Alex Becerra is joined by Emilio Barrera, a Community Development Specialist at SAFE Credit Union. Together, they dive into the power of financial planning and how it can completely transform your relationship with money, starting with the way you spend. Emilio shares his expert insights on why a solid plan isn't just about numbers; it's about alleviating stress and stopping the impulse decisions that set you back. Whether you are starting your financial journey from scratch or recovering from past "speed bumps," this conversation provides a judgment-free roadmap to success.

Key Takeaway: Financial wellness is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's about aligning your spending with your core values and building a small pathway of steps to reach your larger vision.

SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender.

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

Are you feeling the weight of financial stress? Join us for a special episode of the Perfect Cents Podcast as we celebrate America Saves Week and Financial Capability Month!

In this episode, Alex is joined by Savannah Brown, a Community Development Specialist at SAFE Credit Union, to discuss why building a savings habit is the essential scaffolding for your financial wellness plan. Whether you are starting with just one dollar or looking to break a cycle of debt, this conversation offers practical insights into shifting your mindset from "I can't" to "I can."

About SAFE Credit Union: SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender. For more information on financial well-being, visit our website at safecu.org to schedule an appointment with an expert today.

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

On this episode of the podcast, Alex Becerra welcomes the newest member of SAFE Credit Union's Community Relations & Financial Education team, Eli Lopez! Together they discuss the importance of embracing a growth mindset, setting intentional goals, strengthening discipline, and practicing ownership & accountability. Throughout their conversation Eli also shares insightful analogies and helpful tips to illustrate the powerful impact of maintaining strong, clear, focus and following through on your commitments to achieve lifelong self-improvement. Tune in today, because staying committed to your goals, overcoming obstacles, and navigating challenges when things get tough… just makes Perfect Cents!

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]

On this episode of the podcast, Alex Becerra and Savannah Brown tackle the topic of Smart Holiday Shopping. Together they discuss insightful data points about consumer spending during the holidays, the importance of building a strong spending and savings plan, and strategies for ensuring a successful holiday shopping season. They also provide useful tips for avoiding flash sales, resisting the temptation for impulse purchases, and the fighting the inclination to jump on "too good to be true" deals. Tune in today, because navigating the holiday season with a smart shopping plan that won't break your budget… just makes Perfect Cents!

To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below.

TD Bank | Merry Money Survey

TD Bank | Holiday Shopping Tips - Here's How to Keep Spending In Check

GNCU | Tips for Smart Holiday Spending

BBB | Shop Like a Pro and Make the Most of This Holiday Season

Nasdaq | 8 Holiday Temptations That Destroy Your Budget

To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events

To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/

To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/

To contact the podcast team, email [email protected]