Make It Make Cents

Christie Smith, President/CEO of Acclaim FCU
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Acclaim FCU offers financial literacy tips.

Episodes

  1. MAR 4

    One More Mission, A Lifetime of Honor

    Some people talk about making a difference, and some people actually do the work. Today's guest is firmly in the second category. Alison Huber is the Executive Director of Triad Honor Flight, a 100% volunteer-driven nonprofit that takes local veterans on a one-day trip to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials built in their honor. What started as a personal mission became something much bigger, and the stories that have come out of it are the kind that stay with you. Running a nonprofit is no small thing, and Alison does it while holding down a full-time career and, somehow, a personal life. In this conversation, she walks us through what it actually takes to get a 501c3 off the ground, the costs most people don't anticipate, and how she managed to launch an organization in March of 2020. Yes, that March of 2020. Her financial instincts are sharp, her resourcefulness is real, and the way she thinks about money, both for Triad Honor Flight and in her own life, is something anyone can take something from. We also get into the details that set Triad Honor Flight apart, and I do mean details. From the jackets to the stamps on the cards they send after every flight, Alison thinks about all of it. If you've ever wondered how to stretch a dollar further, how to build something meaningful from scratch, or how to stay organized when life is pulling you in every direction, this conversation is worth your time. Episode Highlights:  [1:40] Guest co-host Tommy Riggins introduces himself and shares the roles that fill his “spare time.” [2:36] Alison Huber is the Executive Director of Triad Honor Flight, a 100% volunteer-driven nonprofit. [3:41] The purpose of Triad Honor Flight comes into focus: honoring veterans through one-day trips to Washington, D.C. [4:47] The conversation shifts toward what listeners don’t see is the work behind each Honor Flight. [5:33] Planning is described as a year-round effort requiring volunteers, sponsors, guardians, and detailed coordination. [6:12] Staying organized becomes the theme, with calendar systems framed as essential survival tools. [7:08] Passion is highlighted as a major driver of productivity and follow-through. [8:44] Boundaries around business hours are shared as a strategy for sustainability and balance. [9:49] The discussion turns toward the early stages of launching a nonprofit. [10:43] Research, mentorship, and understanding the market are emphasized as foundational steps. [11:52] The necessity of forming a board, establishing bylaws, and securing legal structure is explained. [12:39] Misconceptions about nonprofit costs are addressed, beginning with insurance requirements. [13:46] Liability considerations and risk protection emerge as critical realities. [14:14] Early operational challenges reveal the unexpected need for database systems beyond spreadsheets. [15:23] Launching in March 2020 is recalled as both exciting and financially uncertain. [16:18] Creative fundraising pivots, including yard sign campaigns, helped build awareness. [17:11] Small-dollar contributions are described as powerful momentum builders. [18:42] Supporter engagement expands into time, talent, and financial contributions. [19:37] Matching volunteer roles to individual strengths is framed as a success factor. [20:58] Personal financial lessons begin to surface from years of nonprofit leadership. [21:17] Frugality is described as both a personal mindset and an organizational discipline. [22:31] Attention to detail is highlighted as a defining strength of Triad Honor Flight. [24:39] Emotional reflections center on veterans whose flights fulfilled lifelong dreams. [25:26] Pride and meaning are tied to seeing Honor Flight jackets worn long after the trips. [26:24] A lighthearted rapid-fire segment brings a noticeable shift in tone. [27:09] Preferences reveal a blend of planner and phone calendar for staying organized. [28:34] Feelings of “not deserving” Honor Flight participation are discussed. [29:36] Donation and application details are shared with listeners. [30:12] Veterans and guardians are encouraged to apply despite the waitlist. [31:27] The episode closes on gratitude and reflection. Resources & Links:  Acclaim Federal Credit UnionTommy Riggins - LinkedInTriad Honor FlightAlison Huber - LinkedIn

    32 min

  2. 10/23/2025

    CyberSense

    This month is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so we have a guest who can help make sense of what all of this really means. Cyber threats have a way of sneaking into our everyday lives through emails, texts, or a call that sounds just convincing enough to make you hesitate. It’s easy to think cybersecurity is something for IT experts, but in truth, it’s something we all have to think about. Our guest today is Tommy Riggins, Managed Services Account Executive at Zirrus Technology Solutions. He spends his days helping organizations protect their systems and their people, but what stands out most is how clearly he talks about it. No jargon, no scare tactics, just solid, practical advice. Tommy shares what actually works: longer passwords, regular software updates, multi-factor authentication. None of it’s complicated, but together, it makes a big difference. We also talk about how artificial intelligence is changing the game, what kinds of scams are showing up most often, and what to do if you ever get caught off guard. Tommy’s take is steady and reassuring. He reminds us that cybersecurity is about awareness not fear. And once you start thinking about it that way, it becomes part of how you move through your day. Episode Highlights:  [00:40] October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Tommy Riggins joins the show to share his expertise. [01:28] Tommy talks about his background, community involvement, and why cybersecurity is personal to him. [02:34] Acclaim Federal Credit Union celebrates winning a financial education award for this very podcast. [03:17] Tommy explains why cybersecurity is critical for credit unions and how Cybersecurity Awareness Month began. [04:01] Discussion on how people have grown numb to spam and scams, and why awareness must stay top of mind. [05:20] Everyday habits that put people at risk and how simple clicks can lead to major security breaches. [06:08] The growing threat of phishing, fake texts, and social engineering targeting busy consumers. [07:24] How stolen data from breaches is sold on the dark web and used for new forms of attacks. [08:50] Tips on slowing down, questioning urgency, and thinking before clicking or sharing personal information. [09:30] Tommy shares three key actions members can take right now to protect accounts and devices. [10:15] Why longer passwords and password managers are essential for modern security. [11:00] Keeping software up to date and treating your data like you’d protect your home or car. [11:45] We trade creative password ideas using hymns and personal phrases. [12:19] The importance of skepticism and situational awareness in everyday digital life. [12:55] How Zirrus Technology Solutions helps credit unions make cybersecurity part of their culture. [13:43] Security awareness training as the first line of defense and why employees are often the weakest link. [15:12] Building trust and simplifying cybersecurity for non-technical audiences. [15:44] What to do if you think you’ve been a victim of a cyber scam. [17:20] A real-life example of someone who hesitated to report a scam and why speaking up matters. [18:21] How older generations can be more trusting—and more vulnerable—to online fraud. [19:50] Looking ahead: how AI and easy-to-use hacking tools are changing the cybersecurity landscape. [20:53] Why multi-factor authentication should be standard across all platforms. [23:14] Balancing concern with confidence: how tech professionals are working to stay ahead of threats. [24:50] Resources for Cybersecurity Awareness Month, including CISA and NCUA. [25:30] The importance of ongoing training and awareness for credit union staff and members. [26:47] Acclaim’s excitement about opening its new branch in Stoneville in January 2026. [27:36] Closing thoughts and reminder to visit acclaimfcu.org for resources and future episodes. Resources & Links:  Acclaim Federal Credit UnionTommy Riggins - LinkedInZTSZirrus

    28 min

  3. 09/25/2025

    Mortgages Made Simple

    Buying a home is a milestone, but getting there often means facing a maze of mortgage terms, credit requirements, and unexpected costs. For someone starting out, it’s not just about coming up with a down payment, it’s about understanding the bigger picture of what lenders look for and what it really takes to qualify. Jennifer Kettlewell from myCUmortgage walks through that picture in plain terms. She explains why credit scores carry so much weight, how conventional and government-backed loans differ, and why things like escrow accounts and PMI end up surprising so many buyers. Her advice on building credit, starting small with both revolving and installment loans, and preparing for upfront costs feels especially relevant for younger buyers who want to avoid common missteps. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the practical side either. Debt-to-income ratios, the role of student loans, and even how buying a car too soon can derail a mortgage application all come up. Taken together, it’s a realistic guide that helps first-time buyers see the process clearly and understand how to prepare before they start shopping for a home. Episode Highlights:  [02:08] Jennifer explains the two main types of mortgages: conventional and government-backed. [04:06] Discussion on how credit scores impact mortgage eligibility and interest rates. [04:35] Jennifer shares tips for building credit as a young adult, including using credit cards responsibly. [06:05] Advice on using installment loans and trade lines to establish credit history. [06:59] Breakdown of down payment expectations for first-time homebuyers and program options. [09:08] Jennifer outlines additional upfront costs like closing costs, escrows, and prepaids. [10:56] Conversation about private mortgage insurance (PMI) and how credit scores affect the cost. [11:56] Debt-to-income ratios explained for different mortgage types, including conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA. [13:40] How student loans are factored into mortgage qualification. [14:35] Property taxes and homeowner’s insurance increases and their effect on monthly payments. [15:51] Budgeting for home maintenance and saving for future expenses. [18:08] Discussion on market conditions, interest rates, and first-time homebuyer confidence. [20:10] Common mistakes young buyers make, like financing expensive cars before buying a home. [21:05] Jennifer walks through the mortgage process for a first-time buyer, from application to pre-approval. [23:23] Jennifer shares her best financial advice about saving, limiting liabilities, and living simply. Resources & Links:  Acclaim Federal Credit UnionJennifer Kettlewell - LinkedInmyCUmortgage

    26 min

  4. 05/19/2025

    Cracking The Credit Code: How Credit Scores Work and Why They Matter with Valerie Lentz

    A credit score might seem like just a number, yet it can raise or lower the cost of everything from a car loan to your monthly insurance bill. Joining me is Valerie Lentz, Senior Vice President at Performance Pro Consulting and a self‑described credit nerd who has spent more than two decades teaching credit‑union teams how to read reports line by line and spot the stories hidden in the fine print.  Valerie breaks down what those three digits really measure, why on‑time payments and low card balances carry the most weight, and how even a single late fee can be repaired with smart moves like share‑secured loans or starter cards. We also tackle the biggest misconceptions; income and a wallet full of new cards do not boost your score, and we share practical tips for building credit from scratch, checking all three bureaus before big purchases, and steering clear of soaring variable‑rate cards.  If you have ever wondered how to crack the code on credit and keep more money in your pocket, this conversation will make the mystery feel a whole lot smaller. Episode Highlights:  [01:45] Valerie can read a credit report better than anybody I've ever seen. [02:00] A credit score is a number ranging from 850 to 300. Credit scores predict the rate you will pay and can even determine if you get a job. [03:03] Landlords use credit reports to qualify you to rent and to determine your security deposit. Auto insurance companies also pull a copy of your credit report to determine premiums. [05:20] Misconceptions about credit scores include shopping for credit can actually hurt you. Stick with two to three new counts a year. Credit score is not based on your income. Being an authorized user can help you or hurt you depending on the credit of that account. [07:40] Credit monitoring using services like Credit Karma. [09:05] Building a good credit history from scratch. [10:57] Start building credit before you need it. [12:49] Recovering from credit mistakes like a missed payment. Strategies include to start making payments on time and continue making them on time. A secured loan with on time payments could also help. [15:34] If you see something inaccurate you can go to the credit bureaus: TransUnion, Experian and Equifax and report it. [17:55] Payment history and how you handle credit card limits affect your score. Keep it around 30% to maximize your credit. [20:21] Keep in mind the type and amount of interest that you are paying on your credit cards. [22:24] Make sure you read the disclaimers and disclosures on your card. [23:03] We learn who has inspired Valerie the most when it comes to her use of credit. Resources & Links:  Acclaim Federal Credit UnionPerformance Pros ConsultingValerie Lentz - Performance Pros ConsultingValerie Lentz - LinkedInCredit Karma

    26 min

  5. 03/20/2025

    FI SAFE and the Fight Against Financial Abuse with Shirley Senn and Jonathan "JT" Taylor

    Financial freedom isn’t just about building wealth; it can be a lifeline. In this episode, we’re diving into a crucial but often overlooked issue: financial abuse in domestic violence situations. Survivors face countless barriers when trying to break free, and economic control is one of the biggest reasons many feel trapped. But what if there were real financial solutions to help them regain independence? Today, we’re joined by Shirley Senn and Jonathan “JT” Taylor, co-founders of FI SAFE, an initiative dedicated to helping survivors navigate financial abuse and rebuild their lives. With decades of experience in the credit union industry, Shirley and JT are on a mission to show how credit unions can be a powerful force for change, offering financial tools, support, and pathways to safety that traditional banking often overlooks. We’ll explore the realities of financial abuse, the role financial institutions can play, and the concrete steps credit unions can take to support survivors. If you’ve ever wondered how financial empowerment can change lives, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.  Episode Highlights:  [01:18] FI SAFE is about financial safety for all. It focuses on the financial abuse aspects of domestic violence. [02:29] We learn about how “JT” has a fire in his belly for taking on financial abuse.  [04:20] Shirley's been in the credit union industry for 30 years.  [05:23] Studies show that 94 to 99% of domestic abuse survivors have been exposed to economic and financial abuse. [06:02] There was a need for products and services in credit unions to specifically help these women. [07:33] Shirley's challenges for credit unions to partner and help with assisting these people. [08:54] How financial abuse plays a role in domestic violence situations. Without access to finances it's almost impossible to break away from the situation, [11:38] It's about empowering people with options to free their funds and heal their credit, so they can get back on their feet. [13:02] FI SAFE is trying to put all of the pieces together to create a smooth path for survivors to break away. [13:47] One out of three women have suffered sexual violence or domestic abuse. 75% have stayed with an abusive partner, because they had nowhere to go. [18:16] Abuse cannot survive in the light. [21:05] Purple Bridges is a charitable arm focused on the process of getting folks from the outside world over to a resource center and then to a credit union. [25:32] Abusers are obsessed with having all of the control. They've stripped away the survivors' identity. Not having a credit score will affect the ability to get all the basic needs to survive. [28:37] We need to think about the impediments we've put in place that are preventing these people from getting on their feet and pulling back a little. [30:08] Compassionate banking opportunities include training employees to recognize someone who may be in an abusive situation and need a different approach. [37:15] There has been a stigma on survivors. Instead of society trying to help, they put so much on the survivor. The credit union was formed to meet unmet needs in the community. Helping with financial abuses is one of those needs. [39:04] JT and Shirley talk about ways to help. [44:38] Establish a credit union that's trustworthy and train your employees. [46:49] We need the brightest impact of people helping people now more than ever.  Resources & Links:  Acclaim Federal Credit UnionFI SAFEJonathan Taylor - LinkedInShirley Senn - LinkedIn

    49 min

  6. 02/18/2025

    Fraud Proof Your Finances with Chelsea Treboniak Expert Insights on Avoiding Scams

    Fraud isn’t new, but scammers are getting more creative every day. Protecting our money requires awareness, vigilance and strategy. In this episode, we’re diving into financial red flags, common scams and how to protect your cash. I’m joined by Chelsea Treboniak, West Point graduate, U.S. Army veteran and financial fraud prevention leader. With her expertise in critical infrastructure protection and financial security Chelsea shares wisdom on traditional fraud schemes, modern cyber scams and the psychology behind financial crimes. From elder fraud and imposter scams to account takeovers, she helps us understand how to detect and prevent fraud before it’s too late. Whether you manage your own finances or are looking out for loved ones, this conversation will give you actionable steps to stay one step ahead of the scammers. Tune in as we break it down, explore the warning signs and make financial literacy more accessible for everyone. Episode Highlights:  [00:45] We are going to talk about financial red flags and avoiding scams and protecting our money. [01:07] We're joined by West Point graduate Chelsea Treboniak who's passionate about critical infrastructure protection. [02:25] It's Chelsea's passion to give back. [03:27] Fraud is nothing new. We're just comparing a more traditional fraud perspective with a more modern fraud perspective. [04:42] Fraud actors have become more sophisticated with things like cyber fraud by layering things that worked in the past into a digital world. [06:50] We talk about the need to protect people from the older generation who may be more trusting.  [07:33] We talk about the importance of keeping our staff up to date on forms of elder abuse. [08:25] Being proactive and recognizing fraud before it's too late. Ask yourself if this is too good to be true?  [09:06] Your financial institution will not encourage you to take urgent action. Do something on the front end to protect yourself and your financial institution. [10:10] Keep educating because repetition is crucial. Explain clues about unusual communications such as typos in email and links to click on. If asked for critical information, just hang up. [12:12] We talk about strategies to better protect your identity. Slow down. Security goes down with convenience on the rise. [13:55] Take a step back. Have a colleague check it. [14:49] There's also a lot we can do as far as rules and tools. We can create necessary friction points. We can also deploy tools to reinforce these rules. [15:53] Chelsea talks about tools used to monitor and keep accounts safe. [18:44] As a credit union, you can also cater your awareness campaigns around the average age of your members. [20:33] A unique scam story. Psychology is a significant part of lessons learned from the scam.  [22:00] The psychology of the fraud triangle.  [23:07] There's also a layer of embarrassment that sticks with people. [24:11] Education is key with our credit union members. [25:04] Chelsea shares who has made a meaningful impact in her life when it comes to financial literacy and our conversation today.  Resources & Links:  Acclaim Federal Credit UnionChelsea Treboniak - Critical OpsChelsea Treboniak - LinkedInChelsea Treboniak - CUNA

    29 min

  7. 01/18/2025

    Preserving Financial Literacy And Small Credit Unions With Denise Wymore

    What does it take to spend over 40 years in the credit union movement and still get excited about making a difference? Today we find out with someone who has done just that—Denise Wymore, a true credit union lifer. Denise started as a teller and has become one of the most vocal advocates for small credit unions and financial inclusion. As the Marketing Manager for Small Credit Union Initiatives at Zest AI and President of the De Novo CU Collective, Denise has spent her career advocating for the smaller institutions and making sure they survive in a changing financial world. With awards like being named a CU Times Woman to Watch and inducted into the HERstory Hall of Fame, Denise brings not only expertise but a passion for the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” We have a wonderful conversation about the importance of small credit unions in our communities and how technology and grassroots efforts can help preserve their value. We also covered setting and tracking financial goals, paying yourself first, short and long term savings and budgeting for emergencies, travel and homeownership. Denise shared about the emotional side of money and spending. We talk about buy-now pay-later and too many subscriptions. Denise encourages young people to start saving early, especially through 401(k)s. She also talked about financial literacy education, practical money management tips and shared her personal journey in the credit union industry, how she saves and how her husband has influenced her financial decisions. You won’t want to miss this! Episode Highlights: [01:57] According to Denise, starting as a teller is her superpower. It was one of the most valuable experiences ever. [03:39] Setting realistic financial goals for the new year. With technology, it's very easy to get a snapshot of our yearly spending. This creates an easy option to review our prior year. [07:18] Denise shares strategies for staying motivated and tracking financial progress towards goals including paying yourself first in an account you don't easily see. [13:38] Balancing long term and short term goals. Advice includes be aware of hidden spending like unused subscriptions. [21:03] Mindset and financial roles and how to shift your thinking. Being aware of the emotion behind money, earning, and spending. [31:48] We talk about buy now pay later options including studies that show it encourages overspending. [33:54] Denise shares a rewarding financial goal she has achieved. We discuss retirement and how employer 401k matches are easy money. She is now putting in her max catch up amount.   [36:39] Stop saying retirement to young people and phrase it as a super smart way to save money. [38:28] If goals are met at Acclaim, they make a discretionary deposit in your 401k. [39:47] How in a snap of a finger, you can go from the youngest person in the workforce to the oldest. [41:47] We learn who has influenced Denise as far as financial and other goal setting. [42:50] Denise talks about her husband's great financial habits and benefits of keeping your money separate. [47:32] The objective of this podcast is if we can help change someone's life.     Resources & Links: ●    Acclaim Federal Credit Union ●    Denise Wymore ●    Denise Wymore - LinkedIn ●    Zest AI ●    Tattoos: The Ultimate Proof Of A Successful Brand ●    The 2020 Vision of Marketing: A Focus on Purpose

    49 min

  8. 12/18/2024

    Creating A Better Future Through Financial Literacy With Scott Baxter

    Welcome to the first episode of Make It Make Cents, a podcast powered by Acclaim Federal Credit Union that breaks down the sometimes complex world of financial literacy into practical, easy-to-understand ideas. I'm your host Christie Smith, and I'm delighted to have you join us for our inaugural episode. Whether you're just getting started or looking to improve your financial skills, we're here to help you connect to financial wellness one episode at a time.   Today's episode features Scott Baxter, President and CEO of Kontoor Brands—the company behind iconic clothing brands like Wrangler and Lee. Kontoor has a long-standing connection with Acclaim Federal Credit Union, united by our shared goal of empowering communities through financial education. Together, we’ll explore why financial literacy matters, especially for young adults, and how mastering essential skills like budgeting, managing debt, and making smart investments can shape a brighter financial future.  Scott shares personal insights from his experience, such as how he learned to manage debt and maintain discipline throughout difficult times like the 2008 crisis. We also talk about the relationship between financial well-being and mental health, the importance of delaying pleasure, and practical tips for making better financial decisions. This talk is jam-packed with wisdom and actionable advice. Episode Highlights:  [02:33] Acclaim and Kontoor Brands have a great history together. We are thrilled to dive into financial literacy.  [03:08] Bad decisions can have a snowball effect. It's important to take some courses in financial literacy in college. [04:03] It's crucial to build a budget and avoid or eliminate debt. Debt can be an albatross. [05:08] When young people are financially literate, it gives them options. [06:21] Finances can be one of the biggest stressors in life. This is why we focus on financial wellness. [07:17] Scott shares the importance of using cash and not carrying debt. Paying off debt gives you options for everything you want to do in the future. [08:50] Scott shares personal stories that affect how he handles finances today. Out of school, he hunkered down and paid off his debt. He also started learning everything he could about finances. [09:45] The crash in 2007 and 2008 was very eye-opening. [11:48] It's a good idea to keep some cash on hand and have available liquidity. [12:27] Kontoor has been innovative with financial literacy.  [13:12] Ways to increase financial knowledge include taking classes, talking with people, reading magazines, and watching shows about finances. Knowledge will help you understand how investments work.  [15:00] Scott talks about the myth of being too far in debt. Buckle down, change the way you're doing things, and make better decisions. Write down your plan and your goal and follow it. [16:02] Acclaim teaches financial literacy for different nonprofits and organizations. Write it down, track your expenses, and watch out for subscriptions. [17:03] Scott's best mentor is his wife.  Resources & Links:  Acclaim Federal Credit UnionKontoor BrandsScott Baxter - Kontoor BrandsScott Baxter - LinkedIn

    20 min
  • 8 Episodes

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Acclaim FCU offers financial literacy tips.

Information

  • Creator
    Christie Smith, President/CEO of Acclaim FCU
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Make It Make Cents