Perfect Cents Podcast

SAFE Credit Union
  • 5.0 (63)
  • NON-PROFIT

Join the SAFE Community Relations team on a journey towards financial wellness and meaningful community involvement. The Perfect Cents Podcast, presented by SAFE Credit Union is a program designed to empower each listener to take control of their financial situation and become a greater force for good in their community. Episodes will feature recurring segments along with occasional guests from around the Greater Sacramento region. Guests will include SAFE Credit Union colleagues, industry experts, business leaders and non-profit champions. SAFE is a not-for-profit, cooperative state-chartered credit union based in Folsom, CA. Our mission is to help members improve their financial well-being, to provide excellent service and to ensure a financially sound credit union.

  1. 18H AGO

    Smart Spending (How to Build Healthy Financial Habits)

    Are you looking to improve your financial health but don't know where to start? In this episode, join host Alex and special guest Marcie Johnson (Debit and Credit Program Manager at SAFE Credit Union,) as they discuss why mindful spending is the absolute foundation of long-term financial wellness. Whether you're a parent teaching your kids about money or just trying to navigate the convenience of digital payments, this conversation offers practical strategies for everyone.  Topics include: The Three Spending Zones: How to categorize your expenses into essential, flexible, and emergency spending. Mindfulness & Money: Why taking a moment to think before you "tap" can prevent overspending in a world of Apple Pay and Google Pay. Strategic Tools: How to use mobile banking alerts and card notifications to keep your budget on track. Needs vs. Wants: Tips for differentiating between what you truly need and what can wait for a better time. Community & Local Favorites: Supporting Local Arts - Marcie discusses the positive community impact of Rocklin Community Theatre, a local nonprofit where her children participate. Local Eats - The episode wraps up with a nod to Thai Basil, a favorite local dining spot. SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender. To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below. Rocklin Community Theatre Thai Basil: Fresh, Authentic, Thai To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

    21 min

  2. APR 17

    Stop Impulse Spending (Building a Roadmap to Financial Freedom)

    On this episode of The Perfect Cents Podcast, host Alex Becerra is joined by Emilio Barrera, a Community Development Specialist at SAFE Credit Union. Together, they dive into the power of financial planning and how it can completely transform your relationship with money, starting with the way you spend. Emilio shares his expert insights on why a solid plan isn't just about numbers; it's about alleviating stress and stopping the impulse decisions that set you back. Whether you are starting your financial journey from scratch or recovering from past "speed bumps," this conversation provides a judgment-free roadmap to success. Key Takeaway: Financial wellness is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's about aligning your spending with your core values and building a small pathway of steps to reach your larger vision.  SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender. To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below. To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

    20 min

  3. APR 10

    The Real Power of a Savings Habit (It's Not Just for Emergencies)

    Are you feeling the weight of financial stress? Join us for a special episode of the Perfect Cents Podcast as we celebrate America Saves Week and Financial Capability Month! In this episode, Alex is joined by Savannah Brown, a Community Development Specialist at SAFE Credit Union, to discuss why building a savings habit is the essential scaffolding for your financial wellness plan. Whether you are starting with just one dollar or looking to break a cycle of debt, this conversation offers practical insights into shifting your mindset from "I can't" to "I can." About SAFE Credit Union: SAFE is federally insured by NCUA and is an equal housing opportunity lender. For more information on financial well-being, visit our website at safecu.org to schedule an appointment with an expert today.  To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below. To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

    20 min

  4. JAN 30

    Introducing Eli: Owning Success and Embracing a Growth Mindset

    On this episode of the podcast, Alex Becerra welcomes the newest member of SAFE Credit Union's Community Relations & Financial Education team, Eli Lopez! Together they discuss the importance of embracing a growth mindset, setting intentional goals, strengthening discipline, and practicing ownership & accountability. Throughout their conversation Eli also shares insightful analogies and helpful tips to illustrate the powerful impact of maintaining strong, clear, focus and following through on your commitments to achieve lifelong self-improvement. Tune in today, because staying committed to your goals, overcoming obstacles, and navigating challenges when things get tough… just makes Perfect Cents! To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below. To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

    21 min

  5. 10/30/2025

    The Season of Giving: Tips for Smart Holiday Shopping

    On this episode of the podcast, Alex Becerra and Savannah Brown tackle the topic of Smart Holiday Shopping. Together they discuss insightful data points about consumer spending during the holidays, the importance of building a strong spending and savings plan, and strategies for ensuring a successful holiday shopping season. They also provide useful tips for avoiding flash sales, resisting the temptation for impulse purchases, and the fighting the inclination to jump on "too good to be true" deals. Tune in today, because navigating the holiday season with a smart shopping plan that won't break your budget… just makes Perfect Cents! To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below. TD Bank | Merry Money Survey TD Bank | Holiday Shopping Tips - Here's How to Keep Spending In Check GNCU | Tips for Smart Holiday Spending BBB | Shop Like a Pro and Make the Most of This Holiday Season Nasdaq | 8 Holiday Temptations That Destroy Your Budget To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

    29 min

  6. 09/25/2025

    Financial Avoidance Isn't Genetic

    On this episode of the podcast, Alex Becerra is joined by SAFE's Senior Design and Communications Specialist, Susan Burns to tackle the topic of Financial Avoidance. Together they discuss Susan's featured articles in Comstock's Magazine, the importance of understanding your relationship with money, and strategies for leveraging your unique personal qualities to keep your finances in check. They also provide useful insights for being a positive money role model and helping the young people in your life as they learn to navigate their own financial wants, needs, and goals. Tune in today, because learning and demonstrating smart money behaviors to inspire the young people in your life as they build financial freedom… just makes Perfect Cents! To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below. Read Susan's latest article in Comstock's Magazine: "How to Avoid Passing Financial Fears to Kids" Read Susan's first article in Comstock's Magazine: "Are You a Financial Avoidant?" To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

    25 min

  7. 08/28/2025

    First Time Home Buying & SAFE Home Rewards

    On this episode of the podcast, Alex Becerra is joined by SAFE Home Loan Consultant, Nate Dungca & Realtor, Nico Almanza to discuss all things Home Buying. Together they discuss the importance of organizing your finances before shopping for a home, the additional costs that come along with a home purchase, and the true value of leveraging strong lender/realtor relationships. They also provide useful insights about saving money on your purchase with SAFE Credit Union member benefits and the exclusive Home Rewards program. Tune in today, because having a dedicated team of professional experts to help you navigate the home buying process just makes Perfect Cents! To check out the resources highlighted in this episode visit the links below. Nate Dunga (Home Loan Consultant) | phone: (916) 639-7652 | email: nathaniel.dungca@safecu.org Nico Almanza (Realtor) | phone: (916) 745-9643 | email: nico@sellingsacramento.com To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

    23 min

  8. 08/14/2025

    Youth Workforce Development Program

    On this episode of the podcast, Alex Becerra is joined by Cordova High School student participants of SAFE's 2025 Youth Workforce Development program. Together they discuss their career goals and aspirations, the importance of financial literacy for Gen Z and Gen Alpha, and the impact of online influencers on young people's spending behaviors. They also provide valuable insights on how to prioritize savings and avoiding online spending traps. Tune in today, because investing in the personal and professional development of young adults in our community just makes Perfect Cents! Youth Workforce Development Marketing Ad (Instagram) To register for an upcoming Financial Wellness webinar visit: https://www.safecu.org/community/events To read the latest edition of SAFE's Beyond Everyday Banking blog visit: https://blog.safecu.org/ To learn more about SAFE Credit Union products and services visit: https://www.safecu.org/  To contact the podcast team, email Podcast@safecu.org

    10 min
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5
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About

Join the SAFE Community Relations team on a journey towards financial wellness and meaningful community involvement. The Perfect Cents Podcast, presented by SAFE Credit Union is a program designed to empower each listener to take control of their financial situation and become a greater force for good in their community. Episodes will feature recurring segments along with occasional guests from around the Greater Sacramento region. Guests will include SAFE Credit Union colleagues, industry experts, business leaders and non-profit champions. SAFE is a not-for-profit, cooperative state-chartered credit union based in Folsom, CA. Our mission is to help members improve their financial well-being, to provide excellent service and to ensure a financially sound credit union.

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