Pocket Change Podcast

What does it look like to help run one of the top zoos in the U.S.? Join Courtney Janney, Chief Zoological Officer at the Memphis Zoo, as she shares a behind-the-scenes look at her role overseeing research, education, conservation, and animal health at this iconic Tennessee landmark. Hear about flying jumpseat with polar bears, catching escaped animals, and the importance of conserving endangered species in our backyard on this episode of the Pocket Change Podcast. Highlights: 01:23 – Can you tell us about your background and how you came to be at the Memphis Zoo? 06:54 – What does a day in the life look like for you? 10:32 – Where did you get your love of animals? 13:39 – What is your favorite animal that you've worked with? 20:37 – Do you have any wild or crazy stories from working with animals? 24:25 – What does it mean to you that the Memphis Zoo is one of top zoos in the U.S.? 27:50 – Can you tell us about the Memphis Zoo's conservation efforts? 31:29 – What makes the Louisiana pinesnake and the gopher tortoise special? 32:40 – If someone only had a half hour in the zoo, what exhibit would you tell them to go see? 34:53 – What can our members expect at Leaders Day at the Zoo on September 12th? 37:29 – What other events are coming up for fall and winter? 39:58 – What is the best piece of financial advice you've ever been given? 42:23 – Which animals would be the best saver and biggest spender? 44:03 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Want to learn more about the Memphis Zoo? Visit Memphis Zoo | 3500+ Animals, Rides & Exhibits, Dining & More Interested in learning more about Leaders Credit Union? Visit Leaders Credit Union | West Tennessee Banking, Loans & Education

Are you intimidated about the homebuying process? In this episode of the Pocket Change Podcast, hear from Mortgage Champion Keith Busby as he shares encouragement about why you don't need to be scared when filling out your mortgage application. Discover why some people don't finish their applications, what goes into finding the best mortgage rate, and how quickly you can expect to hear back from a Mortgage Champion at Leaders Credit Union once your application has been submitted. Highlights: 00:53 – Can you tell us about yourself and how you got to Leaders? 04:05 – What is your role in the mortgage department? 06:21 – Why might someone leave a mortgage application unfinished, and how are you able to help? 08:04 – What common misconceptions do people have about the mortgage process? 09:52 – What advice would you offer to someone who is applying for a mortgage online? 12:29 – What does the workflow look like for a loan application once it has been submitted? 13:44 – Why is it important to give back to the community? 14:25 – What charitable organizations and causes do you care most about? 18:07 – Why is it important to you to work for an organization that gives back to your community? 19:08 – What's the best piece of financial advice you've ever been given? 20:33 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Interested in buying or refinancing a home? Reach out to one of our Mortgage Champions or apply online at leaderscu.com/home-loans. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

What does it mean to say yes for good? Hear from #1 bestselling author and inspiration behind the 2025 movie, Soul on Fire, John O'Leary. After getting burned on 100% of his body and given a 1% chance of survival when he was a child, John spent years hiding from his past, until one day he was called to use his story to inspire others and help them in their challenges. On the Pocket Change Podcast, John shares how he got into public speaking, what "yes for good" means, and what it means to be a hero. 01:17 – Can you tell us about your story and how you got to this point in your life? 03:11 – What did the healing process look like in the years after the accident? 05:12 – How were you able to see yourself as not being defined and limited by your past but stronger because of it? 14:24 – What does saying yes to being used for good look like and how would you advise others to live that way? 22:37 – What does the word resilience mean to you? 24:37 – Can you tell us about the movie Soul on Fire and how it came about? 29:33 - What does being a hero mean to you? 32:07 – As our keynote speaker at our EmpowerEd event in September, what can guests expect from the event that night? 35:53 – Why is it important to give back to the community? 38:04 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 40:37 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Want to learn more about John's story? Visit his website: johnolearyinspires.com. Don't miss out on the chance to see John right here in West Tennessee at Leaders Education Foundation's annual fundraising event, EmpowerEd. Interested in seeing John O'Leary at EmpowerEd? Visit leadersgives.org/events to get your tickets today! The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

Are you ready to take the first step towards homeownership? With almost 30 years of experience in mortgage lending, Mortgage Champion Kelli Bryan shares her insights into different home loan options, misconceptions she's seen about the mortgage process, and the current housing market. Learn more about the homebuying journey by listening to our newest episode on the Pocket Change Podcast! Highlights: 01:03 – Can you tell us about yourself and how you got to Leaders? 03:30 – What common misconceptions do people have about the mortgage process? 05:07 – What loan options are out there and what makes them unique? 07:46 – For those looking to buy their first home, what are the first steps? 10:08 – Why is getting pre-approved important? 12:10 – What does the homebuying market look like today? 15:37 – What encouragement would you offer to someone with less than stellar credit, and what options are available to them? 19:00 – Do you have a member success story you'd like to share? 23:38 – Why is homeownership important? 25:17 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 26:51 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Want to begin your own homebuying journey? Visit leaderscu.com/home-loans to schedule an appointment with a Mortgage Champion or to learn more about Leaders Mortgage Services! The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

Why are the arts important for the West Tennessee community? Join Sherry Freeman, Executive Director of The Jackson Symphony, as she shares the impact The Symphony has made throughout West Tennessee, the way it has grown, and how the arts bring people together. Sherry also shares about the upcoming 2026-2027 season! 01:10 – Can you share how you got involved with The Jackson Symphony? 03:03 – Have you always had a passion for the arts? 04:24 – How have you seen The Symphony grow while you've been a part of it? 07:42 – How did your career in education prepare you to lead the Jackson Symphony? 09:34 – Why is including the arts in education important? 11:06 – Can you tell us about the Regional Music Centers? 16:38 – Why do you think it's important to support the arts? 20:51 – What can we expect in the upcoming season? 25:16 – If someone wants to support the arts in their community, what advice would you give them? 30:04 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 30:56 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Want to learn more about The Jackson Symphony and their 2026-2027 season? Visit https://www.thejacksonsymphony.org/ to get your tickets today! The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

Why is building relationships essential for trust with banking? Hear from Financial Champion Graci Miller as she shares tips about the car-buying process, explains getting pre-approved for an auto loan, and what you should do if you're trying to build your credit. Highlights: 01:09 – Can you tell us about yourself and how you got to Leaders? 01:40 – What does a day in the life of helping members with loans look like? 02:32 – Why do you think building relationships is important when it comes to finances? 03:35 – What are common misconceptions about car buying, and what advice do you offer? 04:48 – How can someone get started borrowing money for a car? 06:42 – What does the preapproval process look like? 07:52 – How can someone build their credit to get a better interest rate? 09:52 – How would you advise someone to use debt wisely? 11:27 – What is the best financial advice that you've ever been given? 12:10 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Interested in buying a new vehicle? Visit leaderscu.com/auto-loans to see our rates. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

What do good leadership and good chicken have in common? In this episode, Chick-fil-A owner/operator and Army veteran, Allen Arant, shares what he has learned about leadership, teamwork, and perseverance through years of serving and leading others. Plus, he's got a Chick-fil-A menu hack or two to share! Find Allen's Chick-fil-A restaurants at Bartlett – The Shoppes at Bartlett | Chick-fil-A and Memphis – Austin Peay Highway | Chick-fil-A Want to find out more about Leaders? Visit Leaders Credit Union | West Tennessee Banking, Loans & Education Highlights: 01:24 – Tell us about your background and how you got to Chick-fil-A. 05:46 – What makes your restaurants unique and what are you most proud of? 09:24 – What does good workplace culture mean to you? 17:29 – How did the Army prepare you for where you are now? 24:07 – What does leadership mean to you? 27:37 – What advice do you share with younger team members? 31:52 – How have your team members taken the initiative and become leaders themselves? 34:05 – Is there any financial advice you give to your team members? 38:31 – What's your go-to Chick-fil-A order? 39:35 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 40:50 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on?

How can ordinary people make an extraordinary impact for the underdogs in their community? In our newest episode, football coach and Memphis native Bill Courtney shares his journey from underdog to mentor, serving students as a coach and inspiring others— leading to the Oscar-winning documentary Undefeated. Bill is the host of An Army of Normal Folks podcast, where he interviews everyday people making an impact in their communities. This is a conversation you don't want to miss! 01:15 – How did your journey begin? 04:22 – What aspect of coaching made it such a passion for you? 08:56 – Can you tell us about the Oscar-winning documentary, Undefeated, made about you? 14:00 – Can you tell us about your podcast, An Army of Normal Folks, and the service clubs that go with it? 18:40 – What defines great leadership? 27:34 – Why is financial literacy important? 32:40 – What encouragement would you give to people who want to help but don't know where to start? 36:10 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 41:34 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? To listen to An Army of Normal Folks podcast, visit https://www.normalfolks.us/. For more information about Bill Courtney, visit https://www.coachbillcourtney.com/. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

Why is having honest money conversations so important for newlyweds? In this episode, Jackson and Amy Glas reflect on their first year of marriage, share real-life stories, and offer practical tips for saving money, building trust, and keeping your relationship with each other and your money transparent. 01:26 – Tell us about your story. How did you two meet? 03:28 – In many relationships, someone is a saver and someone is a spender. Which are each of you? 07:11 – As the spender, what do you like to spend your money on? 08:40 – What are your smart saving tips? 17:10 – Did you experience any struggles combining finances when you got married? 18:42 – What tips do you have for people who are about to get married? 21:42 – You mentioned that you like to travel. Do you have any fun trips planned for 2026? 26:15 – What's the best financial advice you've ever been given? 30:32 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

Do you own a business and are looking for someone to champion you along the way? Hear from our Business Champion, Tanner Spencer, as he shares how Leaders Business Services supports businesses of all sizes — from side-gigs to local businesses. Listen to the full episode to discover how Business Services could help you, how to get connected, and what characteristics build a great team. Highlights: 01:02 – Tell us about yourself and how you got to Leaders. 03:03 – What did you enjoy about managing a Leaders branch? 04:10 – What does great teamwork look like to you? 05:05 – What does a day serving members in Business Services look like? 06:04 – What kind of businesses does Leaders serve? 06:28 – What are some common problems our business members face and what solutions do you offer? 08:27 – What does a new business need to get started? 09:55 – How can someone go about meeting with Leaders Business Services? 10:44 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 11:50 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Wanting to get connected with Leaders Business Services? Call 731-664-1784 to book an appointment or learn more at leaderscu.com/business-accounts. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

Discover Memphis' most beautiful secret on the Pocket Change Podcast as the Dixon Gallery & Gardens celebrates their 50th anniversary! Join us on our latest episode to hear from Dale Skaggs, Director of Horticulture at Dixon Gallery and Gardens, as he shares his love for plants and the history behind the Dixon. 00:58 – Tell us about yourself and how you got to the Dixon. 02:31 – Can you share the story of the Dixon Gallery & Gardens? 03:48 – How are you celebrating the Dixon's 50th Anniversary? 05:59 – Can you share about the documentary on the Dixon? 06:47 – What can people expect from the tulips this year? 07:55 – At what point did you realize that this had become more than a seasonal display? 10:23 – How many quests do you anticipate this season? 12:00 – Can you tell us about your acquiring and naming your 50th Anniversary tulip? 14:58 – How did the Dixon come to have free entry? 16:47 – What's the best time to see the tulips and what can visitors expect? 18:04 – How does the Dixon positively impact the Memphis community? 19:39 – What's the best financial advice you've ever been given? 20:31 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Learn more about the Dixon Gallery & Gardens by visiting dixon.org. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

Did you know that without Rockabilly, there would be no Beatles? Discover the roots of Rockabilly and its impact on West Tennessee culture on this episode of the Pocket Change Podcast with Beth Bolton from Visit Jackson and Dr. Jeremy Tubbs, Music Professor from the University of Memphis Lambuth. Listen to the full episode to learn Jackson's connection to rockabilly through Carl Perkins, how you can get involved in the local music scene, and get information about the upcoming event, Blue Suede Rockabilly Weekend. Highlights: 01:15 – Beth, can you tell us about yourself and your role at Visit Jackson, TN? 02:27 – Jeremy, how did you get involved in the Jackson music scene? 03:37 – How did you two get connected? 04:12 – What is involved in Jackson Hidden Tracks and the Jackson Music Society? 05:39 – Why is it important to invest in music in our community? 07:07 – Can you tell us about the Blue Suede Rockabilly Weekend coming up? 11:37 – Are Rockabilly festivals common? What makes them unique? 12:07 – What makes Rockabilly music distinct? 16:28 – Why is Rockabilly music so important to Jackson? 17:37 – How can an aspiring musician or someone interested in live music get involved in this area? 19:53 – What is the best piece of financial advice you've ever been given? 22:37 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Get connected with the local music scene in Jackson through Jackson Hidden Tracks. Also, learn more about the Blue Suede Rockabilly Weekend and get your tickets today. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com. #Money #Music #Rockabilly

Did you know that having strong relationships is essential for your financial journey? Hear from Bruce Greenway, Financial Champion at Leaders Credit Union, as he shares how his background as a teacher prepared him to be an advocate for the members he serves to empower their passions and build relationships with them. Listen to the full podcast to hear his advice on which financial products and tools can help you make better financial decisions, why HELOCs are beneficial for you when financial needs arise, and an impactful opportunity he was able to have as a teacher when he received an educator grant from Leaders Education Foundation. Highlights: 01:16 – Can you tell us about your journey and how you got to Leaders? 03:04 – What did you enjoy most about teaching? 05:16 – What drew you to teaching in the classroom? 06:26 – What is your favorite part of your job here at Leaders? 07:31 – Why is a HELOC a good option for members? 08:18 – What common challenges faces our members, and what solutions do you offer? 09:36 – What are the top tips for someone looking to create margin or build an emergency fund? 10:33 – What other solutions do we have to benefit our members? 11:38 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 12:28 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? Watch the video that won a L.E.A.D.S. Grant for Bruce and his co-teacher's middle school students to be able to have a trip to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. For details and disclosures regarding our HELOC program, visit https://www.leaderscu.com/home-loans/heloc For details and disclosures regarding our Forward Plus High Yield Savings Account, visit https://www.leaderscu.com/savings-accounts The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

How does cultivating an environment for creativity inspire local businesses and the community? In this episode, entrepreneur and creative Stephanie Riley shares how her years of experience led her to found B3 Creative Agency. Stephanie discusses the diverse clients her agency serves, her approach to building a strong company culture, her involvement in the vibrant music scene of West Tennessee, and serving the community through the Leaders Education Foundation. 01:19 – Tell us about yourself and how you became a business owner. 02:15 – What does B3 stand for? 02:43 – Have you always been creative and entrepreneurial? 04:29 – Where do you find your inspiration for your unique style & brand? 05:49 – Why is company culture so important to you? 06:29 – What do you look for when you're hiring someone? 08:32 – What advice would you give someone who is looking to reestablish their culture & brand? 11:21 – How did you get involved in the tourism & music industries? 14:13 – How has working with local brands changed how you see West Tennessee? 15:10 – What's coming up for Jackson Hidden Tracks? 17:37 – What has working with agriculture meant for you and your brand? 21:35 – As a member of the Leaders Education Foundation board, why do you choose to give back by serving in that role? 23:06 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 24:57 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? To learn more about B3 Creative Agency, visit b3creativeagency.com. Dive into the music scene in Jackson through Jackson Hidden Tracks at jacksonhiddentracks.com or get tickets to the Blue Suede Rockabilly Weekend at bluesuedeweekend.com. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com. #Money #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #Creative

Are there ways to use debt to help your financial well-being? Find out by hearing from Keagan van Wijk, Director of Consumer Lending at Leaders Credit Union. Wijk shares different ways you can use debt to your advantage, not your detriment, through HELOCs, cash-out financing, and balance transfers on credit cards. Also, tune in to hear Keagan's journey to the United States from England and South Africa. Highlights: 01:18 – Tell us about yourself and your role here at Leaders. 02:26 – Can you share some of the cultural differences you've experienced in the USA, England, and South Africa? 03:48 – What was it like to transition from law to lending? 05:14 – What are good reasons to take out a loan? 07:23 – What solutions do we offer here at Leaders for our members to pay off debt? 07:51 – What is a HELOC? 09:11 – How does cash-out refinancing work and how can it be helpful? 10:07 – How can credit cards be beneficial? 11:58 – What have you found to be most helpful for our members? 13:58 – What's the best financial advice you've ever been given? 15:27 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? 16:18 – If you could have anyone on the podcast, who would it be and why? 17:10 – What drives you to come in and help our members every day? If you're interested in how any of these loan products can benefit you on your financial journey, please visit the links below: Auto/Vehicle Loans Personal Loans HELOC *For full details and disclosures regarding our cash back offer, visit our Compass Black page. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

Why is technical education essential for people entering the workforce? In this episode, you'll meet Dr. JacQuene Rainey, President of TCAT Jackson. She draws on her background in manufacturing to advocate for students and share how her experience led her to TCAT. You'll learn about TCAT's programs, ways for high school students to get connected, and opportunities available to students. Highlights: 01:03 – Can you tell us about yourself and your early career path? 02:37 – How has your manufacturing background impacted how you lead today in education? 04:06 – What programs & opportunities does TCAT Jackson offer? 06:13 – How does TCAT Jackson's new Stanton campus tie into Blue Oval and the developing industry in that area? 08:00 – Is there a student success story you can share with us? 09:00 – What makes skilled trades so necessary and why are they such a hot topic right now? 10:45 – How can highschoolers interested in TCAT prepare for technical school? 12:51 – What are your typical student ages? 14:50 – What common barriers have you noticed that make pursing education difficult for students? 16:46 – How has the Leaders Education Foundation's workforce readiness scholarships assisted TCAT students? 18:21 – What encouragement would you give students investing time & money in their education? 19:11 – How can students find out more about TCAT? 19:56 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 20:55 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? To learn more about TCAT Jackson's programs or to set up a tour, visit tcatjackson.edu. For more information about applying for a workforce readiness scholarship, visit leadersgives.org/workforce-scholarships. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

What financial goals do you have for 2026? Join Karen Freeman, Chief Operations Officer at Leaders Credit Union, as she shares advice on how you can make wiser money decisions this year. Tune into our newest episode of Pocket Change to learn how you can become more observant of your spending, what common financial challenges people are facing, and practical ways to establish credit. 01:19 – Can you tell us about yourself and what you do here at Leaders? 02:44 – What has your journey in banking looked like? 04:06 – Do you have any smart money advice for 2026? 05:26 – What are your personal financial goals for 2026? 06:40 – What financial challenges are our members facing this year and how would you encourage them? 07:43 – What are some practical tips for someone wanting to build or establish credit in 2026? 09:10 – What financial advice would you give college students and young adults? 11:11 – What makes a credit union different from a bank? 12:19 – What are you most excited about for Leaders in 2026? 13:09 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 13:54 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? If you need help achieving your financial goals, get help from one of our Financial Champions by calling 731-664-1784 or visit one of our branches. The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com.

What keeps you coming back to the same career for 35 years? President & CEO of Leaders Credit Union, Todd Swims, joins us on the Pocket Change Podcast to reflect on his time at Leaders, the differences between credit unions and banks, and what he's looking forward to in 2026. 01:01 – What has 35 years at Leaders been like and what keeps you coming back every day? 02:10 – What would you say to someone who is hesitant to choose a credit union? 03:28 – Do you have any special stories from 35 years with Leaders? 05:36 – What would you like to say concerning our technology upgrade this year? 06:41 – What would you like to say to our members about what's next for Leaders? 07:56 – Can you tell us about the growth at Leaders over the last 35 years? 09:49 – Why is it important to give back to the community? 11:22 – What are you most looking forward to in 2026? 13:26 – What is some of the best financial advice you've ever been given? 14:40 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com. #Podcast #Money #Finance #Banking #2025

What does it mean to give? For Russell and Melinda Kyzar, it meant decades of crossing borders, learning new languages, and embracing unfamiliar cultures to serve communities around the world. Today, their mission continues in Jackson, Tennessee, where they volunteer as ESL instructors – helping newcomers find their voice and their place in our community. In this episode of the Pocket Change Podcast, they share the profound lessons they've learned about faith, family, finances, and the transformative power of giving. 01:05 – What led you to missionary work? 02:32 – Where have you lived, and what were the highlights of those different countries? 04:46 – What was it like to learn so many different languages? 05:44 – What was it like to raise a family in so many different countries? 08:10 – How did you manage your finances amid so many international moves? 11:30 – What did community look like for you in these different countries? 13:27 – What does teaching English as a Second Language look like? 16:28 – How does teaching English impact our community? 19:05 - Out of all the countries you lived in, which had your favorite food? 20:06 – What do you feel giving is important? 21:41 – What advice would you give someone new to giving? 24:44 – What is the best financial advice you've ever been given? 26:26 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com. #Podcast #Money #LanguageLearning #Culture #GivingTuesday

How do you support your spouse through different seasons of life? In this episode of the Pocket Change Podcast, Financial Champion Caroline Brown sits down with Shea and Carrie to share what she and her husband have learned through navigating multiple career shifts and cross-country moves over 11 years of marriage. 01:22 – How did you and your husband meet and what were the early years of marriage like? 02:38 – What does it mean to support your spouse well? 05:18 – How do you make big decisions as a couple? 07:18 – How have you managed budgeting as a couple when life circumstances have changed? 08:25 – How do you balance being content in the now while also being hopeful for the future? 10:10 – What would you say to couples in seasons of financial uncertainty? 11:44 – What is the best piece of financial advice you've ever been given? 12:31 – If you found some extra change in your pocket, what would you spend it on? The Pocket Change Podcast is presented by Leaders Credit Union. To learn more about Leaders, visit leaderscu.com. #Podcast #Money #Marriage #Family #Finance