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.