A+ YOU

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union
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🎙️ The Affinity Plus Podcast is Back! 🎙️ We’re thrilled to announce the relaunch of the Affinity Plus podcast A+ YOU! 🚀 After a brief hiatus, we’re back with a fresh new format, compelling stories, and deeper dives into the topics that matter most to you—our members and community. What can you expect?✅ Expert insights on financial wellness✅ Inspiring member stories✅ Behind-the-scenes looks at Affinity Plus initiatives✅ Community impact spotlights✅ Tips to make the most of your membership Our goal? To inform, inspire, and empower you on your financial journey—whether you’re saving for the future, navigating life’s big moments, or giving back to your community. Be sure to follow and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you don’t miss our first new episode, dropping soon! 🎧 What topics do YOU want to hear about? Drop your suggestions in the comments! 

  1. JAN 26

    New Year, New Financial Habits: Building a Solid Foundation for the Year Ahead

    It’s a new year—and the perfect time for a financial tune‑up. In this episode of A+ You, hosts Danielle and Amber kick off 2026 with special guest Jamy Olson, exploring practical, realistic ways to get your finances on track without feeling overwhelmed. Jamy breaks down why big New Year’s resolutions often fall short and how small, intentional changes can lead to meaningful financial progress over time. From reframing the idea of budgeting as awareness—not restriction—to setting values‑based goals that actually stick, this conversation focuses on making money management approachable and personal. The trio dives into strategies like: Looking back at last year to plan ahead with confidenceBuilding a budget that reflects real life (not perfection)Using automation for bills, savings, and loan paymentsPreparing for seasonal expenses and building an emergency fundUnderstanding the emotional side of money and breaking unhelpful habitsJamy also shares helpful Affinity Plus resources—including financial coaches, budgeting tools, and an upcoming community webinar designed to help listeners take the next step with their money in a judgment‑free space. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your financial habits, this episode is packed with encouragement, practical guidance, and reminders that progress doesn’t have to be complicated. 🎧 Listen now and start 2026 feeling more confident about your money. Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

    21 min

  2. 11/14/2025

    All About Credit Cards & Payment Security

    Ever wondered if carrying a balance really helps your credit score? Or why your bank sometimes texts you about suspicious transactions? Nic Peterson, VP of Payments at Affinity Plus, joins us to separate credit card fact from fiction! We dive into the world of payments—from traditional cards to tap-to-pay technology—and discuss how to use credit cards safely and strategically. Nick shares insider knowledge about rewards programs, fraud prevention, and why your cards are more secure than you might think. Plus, hear about an exciting merger bringing Affinity Plus services to Albert Lea, Minnesota, and get Nic's expert tips on protecting yourself from scams. Whether you're new to credit or a payment pro, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of payments with confidence. Topics Covered: Credit card myths debunkedRewards vs. non-rewards cardsFraud prevention and security tipsDigital payment evolutionHow to spot legitimate alerts vs. scamsLearn more at affinityplus.org Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

    35 min

  3. 09/23/2025

    Diving into 2026: A big year for Special Olympics!

    Get ready to be inspired! Hosts Danielle and Amber sit down with Bill Fish, CEO of Special Olympics Minnesota, for an episode packed with exciting news, heartwarming stories, and a few polar plunge confessions. What You'll Discover: Why the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota will be the second-largest sporting event in North America (behind only the World Cup!)How 3,000 Special Olympics athletes will compete across 8 days of incredible competitionThe amazing "26 Weeks of Giving" initiative supporting inclusion-focused organizations statewideVolunteer opportunities that don't require you to be a sports expert (seriously, you just need to show up!)Amber's detailed ranking of her 19 polar plunges and why #7 was the bestDanielle's commitment to her very first plunge (with Amber as her elbow-throwing guide)Bill shares his 35 years of Special Olympics experience, from memorable moments with Prince at the 1991 World Games to why CEO Dave Larson went from polar plunge skeptic to annual participant. Plus, learn about unified sports partnerships, power lifting sponsorships, and how Affinity Plus continues to champion inclusion across Minnesota. Whether you're interested in volunteering, supporting local athletes, or just want to hear why jumping into freezing water is surprisingly rejuvenating, this episode celebrates the power of community, inclusion, and taking the plunge for a great cause. Key Topics: • 2026 USA Games (June 20-26, 2026) • 26 Weeks of Giving grant applications (due September 30th) • Polar plunge tips and techniques • Volunteer opportunities year-round • Unified sports partnerships • Power lifting competition sponsorship Connect with Special Olympics Minnesota: specialolympicsminnesota.org Learn more about Affinity Plus: affinityplus.org Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

    27 min

  4. 08/26/2025

    Financial Tips on a Stick

    Get ready for some delicious financial wisdom! In this fun-filled episode of A + You, hosts Danielle and Amber team up with Affinity Plus Cambridge Branch Manager Kari Krummel to serve up essential money management tips with a tasty state fair twist. While dreaming about fresh-cut french fries, Sweet Martha's cookies, and corn on the cob, our trio explores four crucial financial "tips on a stick": 🎪 Budgeting - Your ticket into financial success (and the fair!) 🎢 Managing Debt - Avoiding the financial equivalent of flying off the giant slide 💰 Building Savings - Setting up automatic savings accounts and learning about Affinity Plus's WIN Incentive Savings 🎡 Avoiding Financial FOMO - Resisting the urge to spend just because everyone else is Kari brings her 23 years of credit union expertise to help listeners understand how to create a financial plan that works for their unique goals and values. Plus, you'll get insider tips on Affinity Plus services like financial coaching and member consultations. Whether you're saving for next year's state fair adventure or planning for bigger financial goals, this episode will help you budget wisely and avoid getting in over your head. Fair warning: you might leave this episode craving some kettle corn! Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

    18 min

  5. 08/15/2025

    Getting Back to campus (with a checklist!)

    It’s back-to-school season, and we’re diving into the money matters that matter most for students! Hosts Amber and Danielle are joined by Morgan Wuebker from Affinity Plus’s Mankato campus branch to talk all things student finances — from opening your first checking account to building credit and saving smart. In this episode, you’ll learn: 💳 How to manage your first bank account like a pro 📈 Simple strategies to build and protect your credit 💰 Budgeting tips (yes, even on a ramen budget!) 🏦 Why an emergency fund is a student’s best friend 🎯 How to set your own financial pace and focus on YOUR goals Whether you’re a freshman just starting out or a returning student planning for life after graduation, this conversation is packed with practical advice, relatable stories, and a few laughs along the way. Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

    30 min

  6. 07/29/2025

    The Affinity Plus Foundation - Building Stronger Local Communities

    🎙️ A+ U Podcast Presented by Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union Guest: Jacquie Twedt, Director of Operations & Foundation Board Chair In this special episode, hosts Danielle and Amber sit down with Jacquie Twedt, Director of Operations at Affinity Plus and Board Chair of the Affinity Plus Foundation. They dive into the mission and growing impact of the Foundation—from addressing housing and food insecurity to expanding financial education and access to education across Minnesota. 🌟 In this episode, you’ll learn: What the Affinity Plus Foundation is and why it existsThe four key pillars guiding the Foundation’s work: housing stability, food security, financial well-being, and access to educationHow strategic partnerships are helping people access safe housing and homeownershipWays the Foundation supports youth through scholarships and Junior Achievement initiatives The story behind a historic $1 million in grants awarded through the Federal Home Loan BankHow you can support the Foundation during its 25th anniversary donation match campaign, in partnership with VisaWhether you’re a long-time member or new to Affinity Plus, this episode offers inspiring insight into how the Foundation is building stronger communities—and how you can be part of the impact. 🔗 Learn more and get involved at affinityplus.org/25years Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

    20 min

  7. 07/14/2025

    A Member Conversation - Local Artist Nur-D

    Brought to you by Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union Minneapolis music legend Nur-D joins hosts Danielle and Amber for a high-energy, heart-filled episode of A+ You! 🎤✨ A proud Affinity Plus member, Nur-D talks about his journey as an artist, what it means to give back to the community, and how building his own studio led to the creation of his upcoming 10th album, Chunkadelic—a funk-meets-hip-hop celebration of joy, soul, and self-expression. 💥 Hear behind-the-scenes stories about his favorite concerts, how he flipped the meaning of “nerdy” into his stage name, and why being part of a values-driven credit union has made such an impact in his life. 🎶 Album Drops: July 23 🎉 Chunkadelic Release Party: July 25 @ The Fillmore Minneapolis 🔗 More from Nur-D: https://nur-drocks.com Subscribe: https://youtube.com/@AffinityPlusFederalCreditUnion Connect with Affinity Plus: 💻 Website https://Affinityplus.org  Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

    22 min

  8. 06/19/2025

    Homeownership - The Journey

    In this episode of A+ You, brought to you by Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, hosts Danielle Johnson and Amber Shanley are joined by Tara Rutz, Mortgage Servicing and Origination Manager, to help simplify the often overwhelming world of homeownership. From buying your first home to making long-term improvements, Tara offers clear explanations, helpful tips, and relatable stories about the journey of owning a home. Whether you’re just starting out or already settled in, this episode will help you feel more informed—and empowered. Listeners will learn about: The difference between appraisals and inspectionsWhat escrow really means and how it worksDown payment expectations (hint: it’s not always 20%)What mortgage insurance is and when it appliesHow to prepare financially for homeownershipThe step-by-step home buying processHome equity loans vs. HELOCs (home equity lines of credit)What to expect during the closing processThe role of Affinity Plus in supporting members beyond the mortgageWhether you’re exploring your first home or planning a renovation, this episode helps make the process feel a little more approachable—and a lot more exciting. Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

    31 min
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About

🎙️ The Affinity Plus Podcast is Back! 🎙️ We’re thrilled to announce the relaunch of the Affinity Plus podcast A+ YOU! 🚀 After a brief hiatus, we’re back with a fresh new format, compelling stories, and deeper dives into the topics that matter most to you—our members and community. What can you expect?✅ Expert insights on financial wellness✅ Inspiring member stories✅ Behind-the-scenes looks at Affinity Plus initiatives✅ Community impact spotlights✅ Tips to make the most of your membership Our goal? To inform, inspire, and empower you on your financial journey—whether you’re saving for the future, navigating life’s big moments, or giving back to your community. Be sure to follow and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you don’t miss our first new episode, dropping soon! 🎧 What topics do YOU want to hear about? Drop your suggestions in the comments! 

Information

  • Creator
    Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 A+ YOU
  • Show Website
    A+ YOU