Live Better by Centric FCU
56 episodes - English - Latest episode: 15 days ago -Monthly Podcast featuring financial tips from Centric Federal Credit Union
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Episodes
Building Financial Literacy for a Brighter Tomorrow with Melanie Moffett
April 12, 2024 17:00 - 16 minutes - 11.8 MBUnlock the secrets to planting the seeds of financial wisdom in our youth with Melanie Moffett, our whirlwind of a Marketing Coordinator who's making waves in the community. In celebration of Youth Month, we're putting the spotlight on the need for early financial education, and Melanie is here to share how she's engaging young minds on this vital topic. With the help of our lovable mascot Sprout, we're guiding kids to understand the value of a dollar and the significance of saving, starting...
Keys to Your First Home with Special Guest Ashley Wilson
March 26, 2024 21:00 - 20 minutes - 14.2 MBUnlock the secrets to a smooth path toward owning your first home, with guidance from Ashley Owens, the powerhouse Vice President of Mortgage at Centric. In our heartfelt discussion, she brings a trove of experience—16 years, to be exact—to demystify the home buying process. Ashley showcases Centric's unique offerings, like 100% financing options sans PMI, and how they intertwine with local real estate expertise to keep your budget in check. Her personalized approach to financial guidance doe...
Navigating Tax Season for Maximum Benefit with Finance Expert Billy Joiner
February 20, 2024 21:00 - 18 minutes - 12.8 MBUnlock the secret to a fatter tax refund and wiser financial future with Centric's CFO, Billy Joiner. As your savvy guide, Billy doesn't just break down the numbers; he brings to light the comprehensive value of being prepared with essential documents like 1099s and W-2s to ensure your tax return is not just timely but hits the mark for accuracy. Our conversation ventures into the diverse offerings at Centric, from financial counseling to the BizKids program, and paints a picture of a financ...
Mastering Credit Health: Strategies for Financial Prosperity with Expert Kelli Green
January 19, 2024 20:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MBUnlock the secrets to a thriving financial future with SVP Marketing Kelli Green, who joins us with her 16 years of finance acumen to navigate the complexities of credit health. Get ready to understand how your credit score shapes your economic opportunities and learn the ins and outs of installment debts versus revolving credit. We'll guide you through the importance of payment history and the subtle yet significant ways new credit lines can influence your score. If you've ever been puzzled...
Navigating Work-Life Balance
December 18, 2023 14:00 - 23 minutes - 16.7 MBIn Episode 324 of the "Live Better Podcast" from Centric FCU, host Emma explores the challenge of "Navigating Work-Life Balance." With guest speaker Lawrencia from Finding Solace Counseling, the episode provides practical tips for thriving in a harmonious work-life balance. They discuss evolving work-life balance concepts and trends in today's workplaces, sharing personal experiences and lessons learned. The conversation emphasizes setting boundaries at work, employer roles in creating supp...
The Gig Economy and Side Hustles
December 06, 2023 16:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MBIn Episode 323 of the Live Better Podcast, presented by Centric FCU, explore the transformative force of the gig economy and side hustles in our rapidly changing world. The gig economy has become more than just a buzzword—it's reshaping the way we work, earn, and live. Side hustles are now a lifeline for many seeking financial flexibility and diverse opportunities. Join us as we dive into the pros and cons of side hustles with Matt Waldroup, Centric’s SVP of Business Services. From assessin...
Surviving Inflation
October 18, 2023 19:00 - 39 minutes - 27 MBJoin us in this informative episode of Centric FCU's Live Better Podcast, where we explore the impact of inflation on your financial well-being and how Centric Federal Credit Union is here to support you. Host, Emma Banes, and special guest, Kelli Green, guide you through understanding inflation, its effects on your daily life, and strategies to protect your finances. Discover how Centric FCU empowers its members during these challenging times, providing a roadmap to financial stability in t...
Community Events in Ouachita Parish with Sheila Snow
September 11, 2023 18:00 - 29 minutes - 20.2 MBWelcome to another exciting episode of Centric FCU's Live Better Podcast! 🎙️ Join us on this journey as we explore the vibrant and captivating Ouachita Parish, where every day offers something special to discover. In our latest episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with a true community advocate, Sheila Snow, the Vice President of Communications for Discover Monroe-West Monroe. Sheila Snow is your ultimate guide to all things happening in the Ouachita parish area. From thrilling ev...
Digital Detox
July 31, 2023 19:00 - 28 minutes - 19.8 MBJoin us for a compelling and insightful discussion on Episode 320 of Centric FCU's Live Better Podcast as we delve into the ever-relevant topic of Digital Detox. Our special guest, Lawrencia Jenkins, from Finding Solace, a cherished counseling service in our community, offers her expert insights on the impact of technology and social media on our lives. In this episode, we tackle the pressing issue of limiting screen time and shed light on the potential harmful effects of excessive social m...
The Entrepreneurial Journey
July 05, 2023 18:00 - 30 minutes - 21.3 MB🎙️ Tune in to the Centric FCU Live Better Podcast: Episode 319 - The Entrepreneurial Journey 🌟🎧 In this inspiring episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Chris Lewis, a remarkable local business owner and community advocate. Join us as we delve into his entrepreneurial journey and learn about his thriving business, Coney Island, renowned for serving our community's favorite chili dogs. 🌭🌟 But that's not all! Chris's passion for making a difference in our community shines through...
How to Prepare for a Job Interview
June 12, 2023 20:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MBWelcome to the Centric FCU Live Better Podcast, where we strive to help you live your best life. In this episode, we shift our focus to job interviews and delve into the dos and don'ts that can make a significant difference in your career journey. Join us as we dive deep into the world of job interviews, providing valuable insights, expert tips, and practical advice to help you navigate this crucial stage with confidence. While our podcast covers a wide range of topics related to living bet...
Are Student Loans Really Worth It?
May 12, 2023 19:00 - 16 minutes - 11.5 MBOn this month's episode of the Live Better Podcast, we chat with Centric's very own AVP of Operations to discuss whether or not student loans are really worth it.
What to Do with Your Tax Refund
April 13, 2023 17:00 - 18 minutes - 12.8 MBToday we are joined by Casey Messer, who is Centric's Training Manager, to chat about different ways to put your tax refund to good use.
Buying a Home in 2023
March 16, 2023 13:00 - 31 minutes - 21.6 MBOn this episode of the Live Better Podcast, we chat with Centric's VP of Mortgage Lending, Ashley Wilson, about the different aspects of buying a home in 2023.
The Importance of Financial Literacy in Schools
February 14, 2023 14:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MBOn this month’s podcast, we met with Brent May, principal at West Ridge Middle School here in West Monroe, to discuss the importance of financial education within the school system.
The Difference Between a Credit Union and a Bank
January 17, 2023 14:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MBOn this month’s podcast, we met with Kelli Green, Centric’s SVP of Marketing and Member Engagement, to discuss the many differences between a credit union and a bank.
Financial Wellness Checks
December 21, 2022 19:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MBOn this month’s podcast, we met with Kelli Green, Centric’s SVP of Marketing and Member Engagement, to discuss the many benefits of scheduling financial wellness checks with Centric’s Certified Financial Counselors.
Center for Children and Families
November 09, 2022 14:00 - 13 minutes - 9.57 MBOn this episode, we talked with Anna Grimmett, a member of the executive team at the Center for Children and Families. We discussed our community partnership and how they promote safe environments for children through advocacy, counseling, education, and prevention.
'Tis the Season
October 26, 2022 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.33 MBOn this month’s podcast, we chatted with one of Centric’s loan processors, Sarah-Beth Gaston, about different ways to budget and save money during the holidays. She shared her perspective on the importance of saving, budgeting, and spending time with family.
Budgeting Now
September 30, 2022 18:00 - 18 minutes - 12.5 MBOn this month’s podcast, we chatted with Centric’s Training Manager, Casey Messer, about different ways to budget and save money on gas, groceries, and energy. She shared her perspective on the importance of saving and budgeting and how her family does it.
Wellness for the Whole Family
August 29, 2022 16:00 - 9 minutes - 6.59 MBOn this month’s podcast we chatted with Krystal Farnell and Hannah Burgess from The Wellness Center in West Monroe, LA. We were able to chat about their fitness classes, memberships, childcare, and gym facilities. They offer camps throughout the year for children, called KidsFit. Through KidsFit, they have fun and creative activities that keep them moving. Be sure you make time to stop and check out their open house on September 19th from 5 to 7pm. They will be providing tours of the facil...
Summer Fun
August 02, 2022 12:00 - 16 minutes - 11.2 MBOn this month’s podcast we chatted with Haleigh Murphy. Haleigh is the Center Manager at Centric’s Arkansas Road Center and is one of Centric's Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors. Haleigh previously served at our Ruston Center for three years before moving to the Arkansas Road location. Haleigh enjoys helping members with her team. She shared with us on how to have fun with your family right here in our community such as Kiroli Park, Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, The Northeas...
Summer Safety
June 27, 2022 16:00 - 32 minutes - 22.1 MBThis month we sat down with Officer Glenn Springfield to chat about having a safe summer. Glenn is the Public Information Officer at the Ouachita Parsih Sherriff's office, where he has been employed for nearly 30 years. Listen now for tips on swimming and boating safety, fireworks safety and much more!
Business Services at Centric
May 31, 2022 16:00 - 32 minutes - 22.2 MBOn this month’s Podcast, we sat down with Centric’s Vice President of Business Development, Matt Waldroup, to discuss Centric’s benefits and Business Services. Matt shared with us some of the great benefits Centric’s Business Services team offers. Some of these include competitive rates and terms for Business loans, business checking and savings accounts, as well as business debit and low-rate credit cards. If you’re looking for an opportunity to expand your business and have Centric has y...
Biz Kid$ at Centric
April 28, 2022 17:00 - 14 minutes - 9.93 MBOn this month’s episode of the Live Better with Centric FCU Podcast, we sat down with Centric’s Senior Vice President & CFO, Billy Joiner and Centric’s Thomas Road Center Manager, Destiny Witherington to talk about Centric's Biz Kid$ program. Both Billy and Destiny share with us some of their favorite memories, favorite lessons, and their over all experiences with Bizkids. Centric offers free financial education for middle and high school students throughout Northeast Louisiana. To learn mo...
Live Better with Centric
March 01, 2022 14:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MBOn this month’s podcast, we sat down with Centric’s VP of Mortgage Lending, Ashley Wilson, to talk about the home buying process. Ashley shares with us the many ways that the Centric mortgage team helps our members Live Better in the home of their dreams. From a first-time homeowner to those ready to build their forever home, Centric can help everyone reach their goals of homeownership. Ashley sheds truth on many myths people believe about being able to own a home. Even if you aren’t ready n...
Vacation Better with Centric
February 01, 2022 14:00 - 53 minutes - 36.9 MBWhile we are settling into the routine of colder weather, many of us are looking forward to the sunshine and freedom of summertime. To help us start planning for our getaways, we sat down with Centric’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Member Engagement and the infamous camping queen, Kelli Green, to discuss her tips and expertise on vacationing. Kelli enjoys weekend getaways in her RV with her family and week long vacations to discover new adventures. Listen to our podcast to hear her...
All About Credit Scores
January 19, 2022 15:00 - 26 minutes - 18.2 MBAs the New Year rolled in, we sat down with one of Centric's retail managers, Glenda Augustine, to talk about all things credit scores and how to reach your financial goals this year. Glenda shares with us the advice that she shares with every person who comes to sit down in her office. We discuss what factors into having a good credit score and how building your savings can create a safety net to help. Listen now to share a laugh with us and learn more about Centric can help you build and r...
Finish the Year Out Strong
December 17, 2021 21:00 - 27 minutes - 19 MBThis month we sat down with Toni Crawford from Summit Financial to talk about end of year plans and how to prepare for the new year. She shares dates to keep in mind, how to plan for retirement starting now, and how Summit Financial helps Centric's members Live Better.
What to Know About Credit Cards
November 30, 2021 19:00 - 15 minutes - 11 MBAs Centric continues our Holiday Double Points promotion, we decided it would be a great time with one of Centric’s most credit-wise employees, Lori Riggin, our Assistant Vice President of Consumer Lending. Lori shares with us the knowledge she has earned over her 29 years at Centric working with our members to help them reach their financial goals and teaching them how to build and manage their credit. Lori shares reasons why we should have a credit card in our wallet and tips on how to use...
What to Know about Credit Cards
November 30, 2021 19:00 - 15 minutes - 11 MBAs Centric continues our Holiday Double Points promotion, we decided it would be a great time with one of Centric’s most credit-wise employees, Lori Riggin, our Assistant Vice President of Consumer Lending. Lori shares with us the knowledge she has earned over her 29 years at Centric working with our members to help them reach their financial goals and teaching them how to build and manage their credit. Lori shares reasons why we should have a credit card in our wallet and tips on how to use...
It's the Holiday Season
November 04, 2021 16:00 - 27 minutes - 18.7 MBIn celebration of the holiday season, we sat down this month with Centric’s Omni Manager and unofficial Holiday Ambassador, Kristen Shambro. We discuss ideas on how to enjoy the season and getting the kiddos in your life involved with the reason we celebrate. The magic of the holidays can make sticking to a budget difficult; but with this episode’s tips, the Holiday Gift Budget, and the Santa Bucks Envelopes, you can keep the magic without the debt rolling into the new year.
From House to Home
September 30, 2021 05:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MBThis month we sat down with one of Centric’s Mortgage Loan Originators and our Market Development Specialist, Victoria Sullivan, to talk about the current housing market. With mortgage rates being so low right now, there are many people in the market looking to buy a new house. Victoria shares with us how you can put yourself ahead in the buying process and the ways that the Centric mortgage team can help you through the journey. Tune in now to learn more from one of Centric’s mortgage exper...
School's In!
August 30, 2021 17:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MBWith the start of a new school year, normalcy begins to enter all of our schedules again. Routines are being set as homework is sent home and extracurricular schedules are being decided. You might find yourself rushing from one thing to the next which can make managing everything difficult. From meal time to a stretched budget, adjustments have to be made as schedules change. On this month’s podcast, we talk with Melanie Moffett to find out how she balances things for her family as the schoo...
Wealth Planning with Summit Financial
August 05, 2021 18:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MBCentric is proud to partner with Summit Financial to provide our members with access to experts in wealth advising, estate planning, and investing. As an additional way to help our members Live Better, you can go to any of Centric’s five locations or online at MyCentric.org to get connected with a Summit Financial Wealth Advisor. Summit Financial can assist anyone, no matter age or dollar amount. Centric’s partnership with Summit Financial comes as an added resource to reaching your financia...
Choose Centric
July 23, 2021 20:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MBIn this episode, we welcome special guest, Casey Messer. Casey is Centric's Training Manager and expert on all the benefits Centric has to offer our Members. This month, Casey and Carmen discuss Centric's reward accounts, online banking, MyCentric Connect Video Banking and the many other account and online resources Centric Members can benefit from. Centric proudly offers free financial wellness checks with one of our on-staff Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors. Listen now to learn ...
Protecting Your Future
June 24, 2021 21:00 - 19 minutes - 13.7 MBFrom your loved ones to your finances, it is important to have plans in place to protect what is important to you. Making safety plans can vary depending on your personal situation, but there are some things we all can put into practice. When doing anything online, it is important to remember to be cautious of what information you are sharing and what people you are connecting with. Being open and honest with your family about what to be cautious of online is important to keep everyone safe....
Auto Shopping and Financing
May 28, 2021 15:00 - 37 minutes - 25.5 MBShopping for a new vehicle and choosing how to finance it can be a stressful situation. One quick way to make it easier is to do business with someone you know and trust. When you are shopping for a new vehicle, you want to know that you are getting the best deal and the best car for you. In the same way, when you are financing your new vehicle, you want to know that you are getting the best rate for you and working with someone who can help you the most.
Family Fun with Macaroni Kid
April 15, 2021 16:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MBApril is Youth month at Centric Federal Credit Union! We are RAWRing with excitement to celebrate the kiddos in our lives and find fun ways to teach them about money and banking. Throughout the month of April, we are sharing fun, budget-friendly ideas to keep your kids entertained as the weather warms up. From Boredom Busters to summer camp, we teamed up with Macaroni Kid to learn what fun there is to be had in our community.
Relationships
March 12, 2021 14:00 - 36 minutes - 24.9 MBWhen spring rolls in, the weather warms, plants begin to blossom and grow, and many people start taking their relationships to the next level. Our social media feeds fill with engagement pictures, and our schedules become busy with celebrations and wedding dates. If you are one of the happy couples planning on saying “I Do,” all of the celebrations and wedding planning can cause you to forget to plan for what life will be like after the big day. Engagement season is a great chance for you an...
Homeownership 101
February 11, 2021 14:00 - 26 minutes - 18.4 MBHomeownership tends to be one of the big financial goals we all have, but it can sometimes seem like more of a burden then a blessing. Renting is a great option for people who know that they are not ready to commit to living in one place for an extended period of time. If you are ready to plant some roots but don’t think you are financially ready for it, you can set up a pre-qualification meeting with a mortgage loan originator who can tell you what financing options are available for you.
#Goals
January 08, 2021 14:00 - 40 minutes - 27.5 MBAs a new year rolls in, we all have a habit of setting resolutions for things we want to change. Instead of resolutions, we should be setting goals for ourselves. Goals have a tendency to stick for longer than the first month of the year. Resolutions make us feel like if we fail then we can’t start back, but goals remind us that we aren’t striving for perfection but progress. From your financial situation to physical health, wellness goals can help you build the life you want.
Tax Filing Tips
December 08, 2020 22:00 - 17 minutes - 11.8 MBTax filing time can seem like a nightmare when it comes around, but you can make it a little easier if you prepare ahead of time. From making a checklist on what you will need to keeping things organized throughout the year, filing your taxes can be made manageable. When you are ready to file your taxes, you want to be sure you also have a plan for what you will do with your money if you get a refund. Taxes can seem like a foreign language; but if you research and ask the experts, you can fi...
Tax Prep
December 08, 2020 22:00 - 17 minutes - 11.8 MBTax filing time can seem like a nightmare when it comes around, but you can make it a little easier if you prepare ahead of time. From making a checklist on what you will need to keeping things organized throughout the year, filing your taxes can be made manageable. When you are ready to file your taxes, you want to be sure you also have a plan for what you will do with your money if you get a refund. Taxes can seem like a foreign language; but if you research and ask the experts, you can fi...
Credit Cards and Personal Loans
November 11, 2020 14:00 - 33 minutes - 23.3 MBYour credit score says a lot about you and how you handle your money. Financial institutions, insurance agents, phone companies, and others will take a look at this score when deciding if they can trust you with their service. Knowing what factors into a credit score and how you should manage your debt can help you boost your score and increase your buying power.
Keeping the Holidays Budget-Friendly
October 05, 2020 14:00 - 21 minutes - 15.1 MBThe magic of the holidays is quickly blowing in, and we are all needing to prepare for the festivities. The biggest thing we have to prepare is our budgets. Budgets change during the holiday season because life is simply different during this time of year. Preparing before the rush of the holidays can take away stress and thinking outside of the box can keep costs low. You can keep the holidays magical and budget friendly if you take the time to plan before you spend.
Mobile Banking
September 22, 2020 16:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MBMobile banking has become a necessity in today’s world. Being able to control your money from anywhere at any time has become more important than ever before. Whether from your phone or online, you can do so much more than just check your account balances. From controlling your debit and credit cards to depositing a check from anywhere, mobile banking gives you the access and control of your money that you want.
Auto Buying 101
August 25, 2020 20:00 - 30 minutes - 20.7 MBWhat is debt? Debt is money owed or borrowed. Many might say there is such a thing as good debt and bad debt. What’s the difference? This podcast addresses this common question and more. Often times managing our debt can be overwhelming, but putting the right steps in place to manage your debt well will absolutely lead to debt freedom. Listen as methods and tips are shared to help you reach your goals!
Debt: What You Need to Know
July 28, 2020 15:00 - 22 minutes - 15.5 MBWhat is debt? Debt is money owed or borrowed. Many might say there is such a thing as good debt and bad debt. What’s the difference? This podcast addresses this common question and more. Often times managing our debt can be overwhelming, but putting the right steps in place to manage your debt well will absolutely lead to debt freedom. Listen as methods and tips are shared to help you reach your goals!
All Things Credit
July 01, 2020 15:00 - 16 minutes - 11.1 MBWhat is credit? Why is it important? Questions like this are asked all the time. You may be wondering the same thing or even have questions like: What makes up a credit score? or How can I improve my credit? Good credit increases your buying power. With more knowledge on how to grow your score, you can save so much money. This month, our hope is to educate you further in the world of credit.