Good Money Moves

In this episode of Good Money Moves, join Jenna Taubel, as she sits down with CFO, Jake Dorsh, to explore the ins and outs of money market accounts. Together Jenna and Jake break down what these accounts are, how they function, and the advantages they offer over traditional savings and checking accounts. Jake shares insights on interest rates, withdrawal limits, and the importance of maintaining a minimum balance. They also discuss when a money market account might be the right choice for your financial goals, especially as a tool for emergency savings or specific future expenses. If you're looking to better understand how money market accounts can work for you, this episode is packed with valuable information. Tune in to empower your financial journey!

In this episode of Good Money Moves, we explore the concept of the "invisible paycheck" and why understanding your employee benefits is crucial for your financial wellbeing. I’m joined by Robin, our Employee Experience Manager, as we break down what comprises your benefits package, including healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off. We'll discuss how these elements affect your overall financial picture and share tips on what to consider when evaluating job offers. Whether you're starting a new job or reassessing your current benefits, this episode will empower you to make informed decisions that can significantly impact your financial future. Tune in and get ready to uncover the hidden value of your employee benefits.

In episode 27 of the Good Money Moves podcast, titled “Emergency Funds: What You Need to Know,” Jenna Taubel welcomes Kristina Kovacevic, AVP of Retail Experience at First Alliance Credit Union. Krystyna draws on more than a decade in banking to explain exactly what an emergency fund is, how much to stash away, and the smartest places to keep that cash so it’s safe yet instantly accessible. Whether you’re juggling debt, living paycheck-to-paycheck, or rebuilding after a life shake-up, this episode gives you a clear, stress-free roadmap to build (and rebuild) your financial cushion—without derailing other money goals.

In this episode of Good Money Moves, titled "Mortgages Made Easy: Picking the Right Loan E26," Jenna Taubel, is joined by Nick Meeker, our real estate lending manager at First Alliance Credit Union. Together, they explore the diverse world of mortgage options beyond the conventional 30-year fixed loan. Together they dive into the pros and cons of FHA, VA, and USDA loans, highlighting their unique benefits and requirements. Nick explains how credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and down payments influence loan eligibility. We also discuss the differences between 30-year and 15-year terms, as well as the risks and advantages of balloon and adjustable-rate mortgages. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the mortgage landscape confidently. First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA & an Equal Housing Lender.

In Episode 25 of Good Money Moves, Jenna Taubel, dives into the world of debt repayment strategies with Kanwar Singh, our branch manager at First Alliance Credit Union. We explore the debt snowball and debt avalanche methods, two popular approaches to tackling debt. The debt snowball focuses on paying off smaller debts first to build momentum, while the debt avalanche targets high-interest debts to save money over time. We discuss the pros and cons of each method, how they impact credit scores, and share personal experiences to help you decide which strategy aligns best with your financial goals. Whether you're dealing with credit card debt, student loans, or other financial obligations, this episode offers insights to help you stay motivated and make informed decisions on your journey to financial freedom. First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.

In this episode of Good Money Moves, I dive into the world of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services with Leanne Tromm, our Loan Administration Manager. As prices rise and incomes struggle to keep pace, many find themselves turning to BNPL options, but these can quickly lead to a cycle of debt. We discuss how BNPL works, the risks involved, and why it may be more of a trap than a solution. Leanne shares insights on better alternatives, such as credit cards and personal loans, that can provide financial flexibility without the hidden costs. Tune in to gain a clearer understanding of managing your cash flow and making informed financial decisions.

In episode 23 of Good Money Moves, we break down the dangerous world of predatory lending, what it is, who it targets, and how to avoid falling victim. Jenna Taubel is joined by Kristina Kovacevic, who shares expert insight on the red flags to watch for, the devastating impact these loans can have, and most importantly, what you can do if you’ve already been caught in the trap. Whether it’s payday loans, title loans, or high-pressure lending tactics, understanding how these schemes work is key to protecting yourself and your loved ones. Learn how to spot the warning signs, where to find help, and how credit unions like First Alliance are offering safe, affordable alternatives. First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.

Welcome to Good Money Moves, the podcast that’s all about helping you take control of your financial future, one smart decision at a time. Whether you’re looking to kickstart your savings, crush your debt, or learn how to manage your money more effectively, we’ve got you covered! In today’s episode, we dive into creative, fun, and easy ways to make saving money feel less like a chore. From tried-and-true strategies like the envelope system to budgeting rules and saving challenges, we’ll help you set realistic goals to stay motivated all year long. Tune in now! First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.

Curious about the real benefits of refinancing a loan? In episode 21 of the Good Money Moves podcast, we break down what refinancing means, why it matters, and how you can save big on car payments, lower monthly bills, and build stronger credit, all without getting lost in jargon. Join Jenna and Jordan for a conversation that answers your top questions, from understanding APR to spotting hidden fees, so you walk away confident and in control of your money. First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.

In today’s episode, we dive deep into Reward Credit Cards, from understanding which reward program is right for you, to learning how to responsibly spend to see your points, miles, or cash-back stack up. Our expert guests reveal how to avoid common pitfalls, like annual fees or overspending, while keeping your credit utilization in check. If you’re a young adult looking to confidently build (or rebuild) your credit, this episode is your playbook for achieving both short- and long-term financial success. Grab your headphones and prepare to level up your credit game, one smart swipe at a time.

In episode 19 of the Good Money Moves podcast, “Holiday Budgeting Without Stress: Tips to Spend Smarter This Season,” host Jenna Taubel, AVP of Marketing at First Alliance Credit Union, sits down with Jordan Kaehler, Loan Portfolio Manager, to break down: • Why holiday overspending happens, plus the hidden costs of “just swipe the card” • A simple, realistic budget plan (who, what, and how much) that keeps you in control • Smart ways to use credit cards—rewards, limits, and paying in full—to avoid January bill shock • Dangers of Buy Now Pay Later and how to dodge high-interest traps • Debt-free gift strategies: holiday savings clubs, automatic transfers, and round-up apps • Fast recovery options if you did overspend—debt consolidation, snowball payoff, and more Whether you’re new to credit cards, juggling travel costs, or rebuilding after a setback, this conversation gives you practical tools to celebrate the season without the stress. First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.

In episode 18 of the Good Money Moves podcast, “What is an ITIN Loan and How does ITIN Lending Work?”, host Jenna Taubel, AVP of Marketing at First Alliance Credit Union, sits down with Chelsy Lara, Community Development Advisor and specialist in ITIN lending. Chelsea draws on her expertise to break down: • What an ITIN loan is and who qualifies • How ITIN lending replaces SSN verification in loan applications • The types of loans available—auto, personal, manufactured home, and small business • How on-time ITIN-based payments build your credit history • Common misconceptions and transferring your ITIN credit history when you obtain an SSN Whether you’re new to credit, starting a small business, or planning for home ownership, this conversation gives you the clear guidance and tools to use your ITIN with confidence—without the confusion or guesswork. More helpful resources from First Alliance Credit Union • What is an ITIN? - https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/what-is-an-itin •What are Secured Credit Cards? - https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/what-are-secured-credit-cards • All member resources: https://www.firstalliancecu.com/ First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.

In episode 17 of the Good Money Moves podcast, “Overcoming Financial Fears,” host Jenna Taubel, AVP of Marketing at First Alliance Credit Union, sits down with Kristina Kovacevic, AVP of Retail Experience. Drawing on years of front-line member service, Kristina breaks down: • Why Money Feels Scary and First Steps to Break the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Cycle • Intentional-Spending Hacks (Color-Coding Statements, Trimming “Coffee Leaks”) • Building an Emergency Fund and Prepping for Job Loss With a 3-Month Cushion • Handling Sudden Big Expenses Without Wrecking Your Budget • Smart Ways to Crush High-Interest Debt and When Debt Consolidation Makes Sense • Credit-Score Myths—Utilization, History, and Quick Moves to Raise Your Rating • Fraud Red Flags, Mobile Alerts, and Gut-Check Steps to Avoid Scams for Good Whether you’re new to paychecks, juggling gig income, or just want peace of mind, this conversation gives you practical tools to conquer your biggest money fears—no guilt trips required.

In Episode 16 of the Good Money Moves podcast, “What Is a Business Plan and Why You Need One,” host Jenna Taubel - AVP of Marketing at First Alliance Credit Union, sits down with Mark Thien - Regional Director of the Southeast Minnesota Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Mark brings decades of experience helping entrepreneurs and startups turn big ideas into sustainable realities. In this episode, Mark breaks down: • What a business plan actually is and why every startup needs one • The key sections of a business plan, including the narrative and financials • How to use a business plan to grow strategically and avoid costly mistakes • Common missteps people make when writing their first plan (and how to fix them) • Real tools and free resources from the SBDC and SCORE to get started fast • How financial institutions use your business plan when deciding to lend Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur with a dream or already side-hustling your way to self-employment, this episode gives you the clarity, confidence, and tools to write a plan that works—without getting overwhelmed. First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.

In episode 15 of the Good Money Moves podcast, "Overdrafts & How to Avoid Them,” host Jenna Taubel AVP of Marketing at First Alliance Credit Union, sits down with Kim Ferraro Branch Manager of the Lake City branch and leader of our Contact Center Lenders team. Kim draws on her 17 years of experience to break down: • What an overdraft actually is and why it happens • True cost of fees—and how they can derail your budget and long‑term goals • Quick daily habits (mobile‑app balance checks, alerts, and good old‑fashioned check registers) that keep you in the green • How Courtesy Pay, overdraft lines of credit, and linked savings accounts work—plus when each option makes sense • Step‑by‑step moves to recover fast if you do go negative, and budgeting hacks to stop the cycle for good Whether you’re living paycheck‑to‑paycheck, juggling gig income, or simply want peace of mind at the checkout line, this conversation gives you the practical tools to protect your money—without the guilt trips. --- More helpful resources from First Alliance Credit Union • Understanding the Overdraft Line of Credit: A Lifeline for Families - https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/overdraft-line-of-credit • Download Your Free Budget Calculator - https://www.firstalliancecu.com/budgeting-calculator • Explore all member resources: https://www.firstalliancecu.com/

In episode 14 of the Good Money Moves podcast, "Three Rivers Community Action: Community Organization Spotlight,” host Jenna Taubel, AVP of Marketing at First Alliance Credit Union, sits down with Courtney Dugstad, Chief Operations Officer at Three Rivers Community Action. Courtney shares powerful insights into the mission and programs of this long-standing nonprofit that’s been serving Southeast Minnesota for 60 years. You’ll learn about: • How Community Action Agencies were formed to fight poverty by listening to the people they serve • The Achieve Homeownership program and how it helps first-generation and first-time homebuyers with education, coaching, and down payment assistance • Programs that support renters facing eviction or struggling to afford monthly housing • Mobile home rehabilitation efforts and weatherization assistance to maintain affordable housing • Mentorship and post-purchase support to keep families successful in their homes • The organization’s role in building equity and generational wealth through housing Whether you're renting, buying, or simply trying to stabilize your financial life, this episode shows how Three Rivers meets people where they are and walks with them toward long-term stability. More helpful resources from First Alliance Credit Union • Homebuying Help & First-Time Buyer Tools – https://www.firstalliancecu.com/mortgages • Free Budget Calculator – https://www.firstalliancecu.com/budgeting-calculator • Learn More About Community Partnerships – https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/30k-grant-to-three-rivers-community-action First Alliance Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.

Ready to drive off the lot — and into your next chapter — with zero buyer’s remorse? In this extended Good Money Moves episode, host Jenna Taubel sits down with Jordan Kaehler, Loan Portfolio Manager at First Alliance Credit Union**, to pull back the curtain on every piece of the auto-loan puzzle. From interest-rate math to “negative equity” traps, they walk you through each decision point so you can pick a payment plan that fuels your life instead of draining your wallet. Whether you’re buying your very first ride, upgrading to a family SUV, or looking for a smarter refi, this conversation will leave you feeling confident, informed, and fully in the driver’s seat of your finances.

In episode 12 of the Good Money Moves podcast, titled "How to Turn Your Dream into a Business," Jenna Taubel, AVP of Marketing, is joined by Danielle Sommerfeldt, AVP of Business Development & Lending at First Alliance Credit Union, to walk you through the first—and often scariest—part of entrepreneurship: turning a bright idea into a real-world business. Danielle shares the exact steps she coaches local founders through every day, from crafting a rock-solid business plan to choosing the right legal structure, opening the right accounts, and funding growth without drowning in debt. Whether you’re still dreaming or already filing paperwork, you’ll learn how to set yourself up for long-term success (and avoid the most common rookie mistakes). What You’ll Learn Idea → Plan → Launch – How the Small Business Development Center process turns a napkin sketch into a full business plan you can take to any lender. Must-Have Plan Elements – Market research, startup costs, break-even math, insurance, inventory, and the “what-if” analysis lenders love. EIN & Business Structure 101 – Why an EIN matters, when an LLC protects you (and when a DBA is fine), plus the tax and liability trade-offs. Separate Your Money – The risks of co-mingling funds and the sanity-saving power of a dedicated business checking, money-market, and digital banking tools. Funding Without Regret – Bootstrapping, SBA-style micro-loans, tapping home equity, and when unsecured credit makes sense—for the business and your personal credit. First Alliance Credit Union Build Credit Day One – Simple habits that create a positive payment history even before your business earns its first dollar. Real-Life Success – Danielle’s favorite member wins (and the best “no… for now” she’s ever delivered). Community Resources – SBDC, Collider, and other Rochester partners ready to help you move from concept to ribbon-cutting. Resources & Next Steps How to Start a Business: Your Guide to Turning Dreams into Big Success - https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/how-to-start-a-business 4 Ways to Fund Your Small Business Idea -https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/4-ways-to-fund-your-small-business-idea The Basics of SBA Loans – https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/the-basics-of-sba-loans How to Form an LLC in Minnesota in 4 Steps – https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/how-to-form-an-llc-in-minnesota-in-4-steps For more tools and personal guidance, visit First Alliance Credit Union: https://www.firstalliancecu.com/ #smallbusiness #entrepreneurship #businessplan #startupfunding #goodmoneymoves #creditunion #financialfreedom #llc #businesscredit #rochestermn #firstalliancecreditunion First Alliance Credit Union is federally Insured by NCUA & an Equal Housing Lender