Wellbeing and Your Wallet

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Bola Sokunbi, founder of Clever Girl Finance and Wellbeing Awards honoree. The hosts explain the process behind each year’s Wellbeing Awards, including the three awards categories. They highlight the amazing group of 2025 honorees and interview Bola about how her organization boosts wellbeing through financial empowerment. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: During the holiday season, my family usually donates money to a national charity. This year, my wife and I want to do something more tangible for our local community. Also, I think my kids are old enough to get involved. How can we find local charities that need hands-on support, especially for whole-family volunteering? Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s High-Yield Checking Accounts. Grow your savings, get monthly ATM refunds, and earn a 5.50% APY to make your money work for you. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Kelly Watts, Executive Director of the Affinity Foundation, to talk about the impact of food insecurity and how communities can help. Key discussion topics include the rising cost of groceries, barriers that prevent people from seeking support, how credit unions and local organizations are making a difference, and ways individuals can offer meaningful support to those in need. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: Every year I feel like holiday gift giving gets more expensive, especially now with prices going up on just about everything. I want to make sure my kids and relatives feel special, but I also do not want to start the new year with credit card debt. What are some creative ways to handle holiday gifting without overspending? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Debit card, a great checking account where you can earn 1% cashback on purchases for up to $1,000 a month to help you earn more toward your financial goals. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Bryan Watkinson, Vice President of Risk Operations at Affinity, to break down how cyber threats are becoming one of the biggest risks to your financial security. Key discussion topics include the rise of phishing scams and AI-generated fraud, where consumers are most vulnerable, what protections are available if you're impacted, and the everyday habits that can help you stay safe online. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My elderly mom recently got a call claiming to be from a government agency, saying she owed money and needed to pay immediately. Thankfully, she checked with me first, but it really scared her. How can I help protect her from scams like this without making her feel like I'm taking over her finances? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s award-winning SmartStart Savings account. Whether you’re building your emergency fund or saving for a down payment, Affinity is here to help you earn more toward your financial goals with this high-yield savings account. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss the ins and outs of BNPL payments. Key discussion topics include the hidden downsides of BNPL, including the mental burden of carrying many small debts. The hosts discuss financial resources and tools that are less risky than BNPL, plus tips for how to establish strong financial footing in daily life through the core skills of budgeting and saving. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I have been invited to four weddings this year, and between gifts, travel, and outfits, it is adding up fast. I want to celebrate my friends and family, but it feels like I am going broke doing it. How can I set boundaries and budget for big life events without feeling guilty or missing out? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s high-yield checking accounts. Grow your savings, get monthly ATM refunds, and earn a 5.50% APY to make your money work for you. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Roger Tashjian, Affinity’s Board Chairman and Co-Founder of Bergen Realty Team, to talk about leadership, community, and what today’s homebuyers really need to know. Key discussion topics include Roger’s path from member to board chair, what’s happening in the local housing market, the real challenges buyers face, and what it takes to prepare for homeownership in a competitive and changing environment. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My rent just went up by $300 a month, and it feels like my budget has been completely thrown off. I can cover it, but only if I cut back on saving. What’s the best way to adjust when housing costs suddenly take up a much bigger slice of your income? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s mortgage offerings. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or experienced homeowner, Affinity can support you every step of the way with competitive rates, fixed and adjustable-rate mortgage options, and expert guidance. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz explore the role artificial intelligence plays in shaping financial advice today and where it can fall short. Key discussion topics include: the pros and cons of using AI tools for money management, how to spot generic or misleading guidance, why human insight still matters, and how Affinity supports members with personalized advice that actually fits their lives. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I’m in my early 40s and recently divorced. I’ve always let my ex handle our finances, and now I’m trying to get back on track on my own. I have a stable job but feel overwhelmed figuring out how to budget, save, and plan for retirement. Where should I start without getting discouraged? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s tools and financial wellbeing resources, including blogs, educational events & webinars, credit counseling tools, and more. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Katie Gallagher, a middle school teacher and Grant’s wife. As back to school season begins, they discuss how to budget for a successful year. Key discussion topics include pacing a budget throughout the year, targeting cheaper off-brand supplies, paying for extracurricular activities, navigating the financial aspects of the school year as an educator, and involving your kid in the shopping process for financial education. Following the main discussion, the team discusses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I have two kids who are 8 and 6 years old. I don’t have any money saved for their college education. I know how expensive college can be, and I don’t want them taking out massive loan amounts when the time comes. I don’t really have any room in my budget right now to put money away for their college, so I was curious what tips you guys had for saving for college when your budget doesn’t really allow for it? Finally, Grant concludes by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Debit Card, which comes free with their checking account and allows users to earn up to 1% cash back on purchases. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz walk through the full range of products and services available at Affinity and how they support your financial wellbeing at every stage of life. Key discussion topics include everyday banking options like checking and savings accounts, tools for borrowing and building credit, home and auto loans, retirement and investment support, and how to connect with Affinity for personalized guidance. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I have balances on three different credit cards with interest rates all over the place. Every time I think I’m making progress, another unexpected expense sets me back. I’m feeling stuck and frustrated. How do I break the cycle and actually pay these cards off for good? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s tools and financial wellbeing resources, including blogs, educational events & webinars, credit counseling tools, and more. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Katie O'Shea from Navicore Solutions to reflect on the financial lessons they wish they learned sooner. Key discussion topics include common money mistakes in your 20s, building good habits early, understanding credit, managing peer pressure around spending, and setting both short- and long-term goals that grow with you. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My partner and I both work freelance jobs with irregular income, and it feels impossible to budget when some months are great and others are tight. We’re tired of feeling like we’re always catching up or overspending when we have a good month. How can we build a budget or system that actually works with unpredictable paychecks? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s award-winning SmartStart Savings account. Whether you’re saving for a down payment, dream vacation, or rainy day, Affinity is here to help you earn more toward your financial goals with this high-yield savings account. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz take a closer look at some of the biggest financial decisions made by celebrities and what everyday people can learn from them. From Mike Tyson’s financial missteps to Oprah’s smart business moves, the conversation focuses on turning high-profile money choices into practical advice. Key discussion topics include avoiding lifestyle creep, recognizing risky financial moves, building multiple income streams, and making confident, intentional choices with your money. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I took a break from work to care for my aging parents, and now I’m trying to re-enter the workforce. My savings are running low, and it feels like I’ve fallen behind financially and professionally. Where do I even begin when I feel like I’m starting over in every way? Finally, Grant concludes by highlighting Affinity’s High-Yield Checking account, which combines excellent earning potential with automatic savings growth. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz welcome Ilona Limonta-Volkova, host of the “Money Memories” podcast, to discuss building healthier financial habits and a positive mindset around money. Key discussion topics include: why financial guilt sticks with us, how family and upbringing shape our money mindset, practical ways to move past shame, and tips for creating healthy financial habits with confidence and support. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I’m preparing to relocate for a job opportunity in a new city, and while it’s exciting, I’m realizing how expensive moving actually is. Between deposits, furniture, and the cost of getting settled, it’s overwhelming. What should I prioritize financially during a big life transition like this? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s tools and financial wellbeing resources, including blogs, educational events & webinars, credit counseling tools, and more. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher break down the basics of estate planning and why it matters for everyone, not just the wealthy. Key discussion topics include: wills vs. trusts, the role of power of attorney, common estate planning mistakes to avoid, overlooked areas like personal wishes, and how tools like Legal Karma can make planning easier. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My sister recently asked me to co-sign on her new car loan because she doesn't have the best credit. I want to help, but I’ve heard co-signing can be risky. How can I support her without putting myself in a bad financial situation? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s partnership with Legal Karma, a digital estate planning solution making it easier for members to create essential legal documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher dive into the everyday financial choices that can quietly shape your financial wellbeing. From navigating car loans and resisting online impulse buys to managing subscriptions and social spending, they break down how small decisions can add up, and how to stay in control. Key discussion topics include: smarter ways to evaluate convenience spending, tips for comparing financing options, the hidden impact of Buy Now, Pay Later services, and practical strategies to avoid budget drains in daily life. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My child is graduating high school soon and is headed off to college this fall. I'm excited but also feeling overwhelmed by all the financial decisions we need to make. Beyond tuition, what are some common money decisions parents overlook when preparing for a kid to leave the nest? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s partnership with Greenlight, a debit card and app that teaches teens how to spend, save, and invest money wisely.  Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher are joined by Zach Wright, Affinity’s Cannabis Banking Manager, for a conversation surrounding cannabis business banking.  Key discussion topics include: the banking challenges cannabis businesses face, the role of financial institutions in supporting this sector, the importance of compliance and public perception, and how Affinity is helping these businesses thrive in New Jersey and beyond. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I'm turning 65 next year and as retirement gets closer, I'm realizing I might not be as financially prepared as I thought. I love the idea of finally retiring fully, but with all the economic uncertainty, I’m scared I might run out of money if I stop working completely. Would it be smarter to find a part-time job to ease into retirement, or am I just letting financial anxiety get the best of me? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Business Services. Affinity has a range of services designed to support small businesses, including affordable banking solutions, merchant services for easier business management, and a business credit card with low rates and rewards. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing And Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher break down the hidden costs of tariffs and how trade wars can impact your everyday budget. Key discussion topics include: what tariffs and trade deficits are, how they affect prices on essentials like groceries, electronics, and vehicles, and smart strategies to reduce the financial impact, from shopping locally to negotiating bills and staying informed. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please send it to @affinityfcu on Facebook with #MemberMailbag. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing And Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher discuss budgeting for your next summer vacation with Clint Henderson, Managing Editor at The Points Guy.  Key discussion topics include: how to start using travel rewards, smart strategies for summer travel savings, insider tips for booking flights and hotels, debunking budget travel myths, underrated money-saving hacks, and where to splurge or save on your next trip. Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: Every time we travel as a family, my kids somehow convince me to buy the overpriced souvenirs, extra theme park upgrades, and whatever overpriced snack catches their eye. I want to make the trip fun without falling into every tourist trap. What are some creative ways to set spending boundaries on a vacation — without feeling like the ‘boring’ parent? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s award-winning SmartStart Savings account. Whether you’re saving for a down payment, dream vacation, or rainy day, Affinity is here to help you earn more toward your financial goals with this high-yield savings account. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please send it to @affinityfcu on Facebook with #MemberMailbag. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing And Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher discuss the role of women in finance with Affinity’s AVP of Retail Branch Operations, Antinea Middleton.  Key discussion topics include: challenges women face in the workplace, tips for breaking barriers, finding and building mentorship networks, and more.  Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I’ve always been good about paying my bills on time, so I was surprised to see my credit score drop recently. I haven’t taken on new debt or missed any payments, so I don’t know what could be causing it. What are some lesser-known factors that can negatively impact a credit score, and how can I get mine back on track? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Debit card, a great checking account where you can earn 1% cashback on purchases for up to $1,000 a month to help you earn more toward your financial goals. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please send it to @affinityfcu on Facebook with #MemberMailbag. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing And Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher are joined by Affinity’s AVP of Consumer Lending, Nicole Stovall.  In the third installment of their Splitting the Check series, the team begins their discussion with a rapid fire icebreaker to celebrate the 50th episode!  Additional key discussion topics include: when should couples start planning financially for a child’s future and what they should prioritize, how couples can align on priorities, education planning, and more.  Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I love finding a good deal, but I also know that sometimes it’s worth spending more for quality. How do you decide when to splurge on a high-quality item versus when to hunt for a bargain? Are there certain things that are always worth the investment? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s partnership with Greenlight, a debit card and app that teaches teens how to spend, save, and invest money wisely.  Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please send it to @affinityfcu on Facebook with #MemberMailbag. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing And Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher are joined by President and CEO, Kevin Brauer, to discuss Affinity’s 90th anniversary.  Key discussion topics include: a deep dive into our rich history and our future vision, key mile milestones that have shaped our history, and our core values that drive us how we're evolving to better serve our members and communities.  Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I keep hearing about people doing “no-spend months” or extreme savings challenges. I love the idea of saving more, but honestly, some of these sound impossible. Are there any realistic, low-effort money challenges that actually work without making life miserable? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s tools and financial wellbeing resources, including blogs, educational events & webinars, credit counseling tools, and more. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please send it to @affinityfcu on Facebook with #MemberMailbag. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing And Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, expert hosts Shawn Lubitz and Grant Gallagher discuss money attachment styles and how they impact our financial decisions. Key discussion topics include: different relationship attachment styles, communicating about money with a partner, improving your own relationship with money, and more.  Following the main discussion, the team shares their response to a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I always feel guilty about spending money, even when it’s for something I need or really want. It’s starting to make it hard to enjoy the things I work so hard for. How can I strike a better balance between saving and spending without feeling so anxious about it? Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Debit Account, noting how it can be a useful financial tool for individuals and couples. Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please send it to @affinityfcu on Facebook with #MemberMailbag. Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products. Thanks for listening and be well.