Dollars & Sense

HAPO Community Credit Union
  • 5.0 (2)
  • INVESTING
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

This isn’t your average money podcast. Dollars and Sense breaks down personal finance without the fluff. You’ll get honest talk, real stories, and practical advice to help you get ahead while still enjoying the things that make life fun. Powered by HAPO Community Credit Union.

  1. 3D AGO

    The Truth About Fixing Your Credit (No One Wants to Say This)

    Watch the full-length episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.Podcast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/ https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/ There’s a lot of advice online about how to “fix” your credit. Quick wins. Loopholes. Disputes that magically erase everything. The reality is this isn’t how it works. In this episode, we sit down with a credit dispute specialist who works directly with credit reports every day to break down what’s actually happening behind the scenes and clear up some of the biggest misconceptions people have about their credit. We cover: Why your credit score doesn’t update right away What happens when you file a dispute The truth about credit repair companies Why paid-off accounts still show on your report The difference between late fees and being reported late What actually moves your credit score in the right direction If you’ve ever been confused by your credit or felt like you’re doing everything right but not seeing results, this episode will give you the clarity you need. Because fixing your credit isn’t about hacks. It’s about understanding how the system actually works.

    38 min

  2. MAR 18

    We Asked a Tax Pro What People Get Wrong About Taxes

    Watch the full-length episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.Podcast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/ https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/ Tax season can feel confusing, stressful, and overwhelming—especially if you’re filing for the first time. But it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Dollars and Sense, we sit down with Ken from AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, a free tax preparation service that helps thousands of people file their taxes correctly every year. We talk through some of the most common things people misunderstand about filing taxes, what documents you actually need before you sit down to file, and how free tax help programs work. Ken also shares insights from years of helping people through tax season—what trips people up, how to prepare ahead of time, and how to make the process smoother. Whether you’re filing your taxes for the first time or just want to avoid common mistakes, this conversation will help you walk into tax season a little more prepared and a lot less stressed. In this episode we discuss: • Common misconceptions about filing taxes • What documents you should gather before filing • The difference between credits and deductions • What first-time filers should know • How free tax preparation services work • Tips to make tax season easier If you’ve ever felt unsure about taxes, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to follow the show for more real stories and smart money talk.

    42 min

  3. MAR 4

    We Bought a House at 19 — Here’s What Almost Stopped Us

    Brenna's Socials: https://www.tiktok.com/@bren.nery?lang=en https://www.instagram.com/brenna.nery/?hl=en Kekoa's IG: https://www.instagram.com/kekoa.nery/?hl=en Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7dIYZRus5g9rjftdPkGVCL?si=41c4d1ded22442ad Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dollars-sense/id1788376326 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/ https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/ Buying your first home is a milestone most people dream about, but very few understand the process behind it. In this episode, Brenna and Kekoa share what it actually took to buy their first home at 19 and 20 years old. It wasn’t smooth. It wasn’t simple. And it definitely wasn’t guaranteed. They put in eight offers before one was accepted. Interest rates jumped from 3% to 5.5% while they were shopping. Their projected payment increased by nearly $800 a month. At one point, they were ready to walk away. We talk about: What first-time buyers underestimate How rate changes impact affordability The reality of bidding wars Why preparation matters more than timing What lenders and realtors are really looking for How to know if you’re actually ready to buy Whether you’re 19, 29, or just starting to think about homeownership, this episode breaks down the real process from pre-approval to closing day and the mindset shift that makes it possible. If buying a home feels intimidating, you might be closer than you think. Brenna and Kekoa are also hosting a First-Time Homebuyer Workshop where you can ask questions, learn the process, and build a plan. Keep an eye on social for details.  If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to get your first set of house keys this episode is for you.

    36 min

  4. FEB 10

    Investing Is Simple, But Your Emotions Decide the Outcome

    Investing isn’t complicated. But emotions make it feel that way. Most people understand the basics—buy low, sell high, stay invested. Yet time and time again, investors make decisions that work against them. Not because they lack information, but because fear, panic, overconfidence, and the urge to “do something” take over when uncertainty shows up. In this episode, financial advisors Tyler Pearson and Nick Haberling break down the psychology behind investing decisions and explain why emotional reactions often matter more than market conditions. We explore how action bias, media noise, and short-term thinking quietly erode long-term results—and why passive investing still requires discipline and intention. This conversation isn’t about picking stocks or predicting the market. It’s about understanding how your emotions influence your decisions, especially during volatility, and why staying calm is often harder—and more valuable—than being right. Because in the end, investing is simple. But whether you succeed or struggle is determined by how well you manage your reactions when things don’t go as planned. If you’ve ever felt tempted to react to headlines, adjust your strategy in the moment, or second-guess a long-term plan, this episode will help you approach investing with a clearer, steadier mindset. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.Podcast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/ https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/ This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

    46 min

  5. JAN 22

    Why the Same Income Feels Completely Different at Every Stage of Life (The Budget Experiment)

    What happens when people at different life stages are given the same income and asked to build a budget? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, we run The Budget Experiment — giving each guest the exact same income, expenses, and framework, then watching how their priorities, values, and life stage shape the outcome. From young professionals to parents with kids, this conversation shows why budgeting isn’t about restriction — it’s about tradeoffs. You’ll hear what each person protected, what they struggled to cut, and why comparing budgets rarely tells the full story. 🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: @DollarsAndSense.Podcast 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @hapoccu | @dollarsandsense.podcast

    55 min

  6. 12/31/2025

    5 Financial Habits That You Should Adopt in 2026

    Most financial advice sounds good… but doesn’t stick. In this episode of Dollars & Sense, we break down five practical financial habits that actually matter in 2026 — not trendy hacks or unrealistic rules, but simple actions that help reduce stress, improve clarity, and build consistency over time. We talk about: Why checking in on your money once a month matters more than perfectionHow automation can quietly do the heavy lifting for youThe role interest and credit play in long-term financial healthWhy small habits are often more powerful than big financial goalsWhether you’re starting fresh in 2026 or just looking to feel more in control of your finances, these habits are designed to meet you where you’re at — and help you move forward with intention. 👉 You don’t need to do everything at once. Start with one habit, build momentum, and adjust as you go. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: @DollarsAndSense.Podcast 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @hapoccu | @dollarsandsense.podcast

    34 min

  7. 12/24/2025

    What 25 Years of Debt Counseling Reveal About How We Handle Money

    In this episode of Dollars and Sense, Scott Cowan interviews Chris Dlugozima, a financial counselor and podcast host for GreenPath Financial Wellness, discussing the complexities of debt accumulation, the psychological barriers to seeking help, and the importance of financial literacy. They explore common signs of financial distress, the impact of life events on debt, and share success stories from debt management programs. The conversation emphasizes the need for open discussions about money struggles and encourages listeners to seek help when needed. Takeaways Debt often accumulates over time rather than appearing suddenly. Many people feel shame about their financial situations, which prevents them from seeking help. Debt doesn't discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of income level. Signs of financial distress include unopened bills and reliance on minimum payments. Using new credit to pay off old debt can lead to a worse financial situation. Debt management programs can provide structure and support for those struggling with debt. Unexpected life events, such as medical emergencies, can lead to significant debt. It's common for people to delay seeking help until they reach a breaking point. Talking about financial struggles can be cathartic and lead to solutions. Community resources, like financial coaching, can provide valuable support. GreenPath Financial Wellness Podcast: https://www.greenpath.com/podcasts/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Financial Literacy and Guest Background 03:15 Understanding Debt Accumulation and Its Causes 05:20 Signs of Financial Distress and Debt Management 08:42 The Cycle of Minimum Payments and New Debt 10:33 Exploring Debt Management Programs 13:24 Unexpected Life Events Leading to Debt 16:03 Success Stories from Debt Management Programs 20:50 Realizations and Seeking Help for Financial Issues 24:28 The Psychological Barriers to Seeking Financial Help 26:42 Real Stories of Financial Struggles and Recovery 33:59 The Importance of Follow-Up and Community Support 36:17 Final Thoughts on Seeking Help and Financial Wellness 🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: @DollarsAndSense.Podcast 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @hapoccu | @dollarsandsense.podcast

    39 min

  8. 12/03/2025

    How One Family Built Generational Wealth… And What You Can Learn From Them

    What does it really take to build generational wealth that lasts? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, we sit down with Tony and Brenna from Christiansen Inc., a three-generation family business that grew from a one-bedroom house and six employees into a billion-dollar company supporting more than 400 team members. Their story is not about luck or shortcuts. It is about courage, sacrifice, leadership, and the mindset required to build something that outlives you. In this conversation you will learn:  • True generational wealth is more than just money.  • Tony’s parents took risks to build their future.  • Struggle, not comfort, shapes responsible children.  • Preparing the next generation without creating entitlement is important.  • Family businesses need systems and structures to survive.  • Brenna’s experience in the business changed her views on money.  • Advice for building a legacy includes being mindful of creating entitlement. Whether you come from money, grew up struggling, or are building something for your kids right now, this episode gives you a playbook for thinking long term, grounding your values, and creating impact that spans generations. If you are interested in leadership, family business, legacy building, or financial freedom, this is a conversation you will not want to miss. 🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: @DollarsAndSense.Podcast 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @hapoccu | @dollarsandsense.podcast

    37 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

This isn’t your average money podcast. Dollars and Sense breaks down personal finance without the fluff. You’ll get honest talk, real stories, and practical advice to help you get ahead while still enjoying the things that make life fun. Powered by HAPO Community Credit Union.

Information

  • Creator
    HAPO Community Credit Union
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dollars & Sense
  • Show Website
    Dollars & Sense