Good Money Moves

In this Good Money Moves episode, we explain how certificates of deposit (CDs) work, when a CD beats a savings account, and how to choose terms without locking up too much cash. You will learn early-withdrawal penalties in plain English, insured deposits, how interest is paid, and how to build a simple CD ladder for goals like taxes, travel, or a down payment. We also cover auto-renewal, grace periods, and how much to keep in your emergency fund vs. a CD.

In this Good Money Moves episode, we set up your very first paycheck so saving happens automatically and your bills stay on time. You will learn what pay yourself first really means, how to pick a starting percent, and an easy 50-30-20 split. We cover direct deposit splits, recurring transfers, round up savings, goal buckets for birthdays and trips, and a practical emergency fund target with a 90-day step-up plan. We also explain how to read your pay stub, W-4 basics, handling student loans in your first budget, and when 401(k), Roth IRA, HSA or FSA contributions make sense. Takeaways include: • Automate savings on payday with direct deposit splits • Build an emergency fund without stalling your life • Use goal sub-accounts and round up savings to stay on track • Turn on banking alerts and autopay the right bills first

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 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 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.

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.

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 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 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 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.

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

In episode 10 of the Good Money Moves podcast, titled "Home Equity Loans | Everything You Need to Know," Jenna Taubel, AVP of Marketing, is joined by Andrea Allen, Chief Revenue Officer at First Alliance Credit Union. Andrea shares expert insights on how home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) work, who they’re right for, and how to use them wisely. She explains the key differences between the two options, how to qualify—even after financial setbacks—and how to avoid common pitfalls. From remodeling your kitchen to consolidating high-interest credit card debt, this episode offers practical, plain-English guidance for making confident, informed decisions about tapping into your home’s value. Plus, Andrea outlines what to expect during the application process and how a HELOC can save you money compared to traditional credit card debt. Stick around for practical tips on qualifying (even after a rough patch), what the application costs really look like, and why a HELOC can beat a 25 % credit‑card rate every time. You’ll learn: The difference between a home equity loan and a HELOC How each option works (and what the risks are) Real-world examples of how people use them smartly What it takes to qualify—even if you’ve had financial setbacks Why a HELOC can be a smarter move than racking up 25% interest on your credit card 📚 Resources & Next Steps What is a Home Equity Loan? The Burns Family Example — https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/what-is-a-home-equity-loan How to Estimate HELOC Payments How to Estimate HELOC Payments — https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/how-to-estimate-heloc-payments Home Equity Loan vs. HELOC: What's the Difference? — https://www.firstalliancecu.com/blog/home-equity-loan-vs.-heloc-whats-the-difference For more helpful resources, visit First Alliance Credit Union: https://www.firstalliancecu.com/ First Alliance Credit Union is federally Insured by NCUA & an Equal Housing Lender

In this episode of Good Money Moves, titled "How to Save Money E8," I, Jenna Taubel, am joined by Kristina Kovacevic our AVP of Retail Experience at First Alliance Credit Union. Together, we tackle the essential topic of saving money, offering practical advice for those feeling financially stretched. Kristina shares insights on starting small, such as cutting back on daily expenses like coffee, and emphasizes the importance of setting realistic savings goals. We discuss common pitfalls, such as over-saving, and the benefits of automating savings to make the process easier. We also explore the significance of budgeting and how specific savings accounts, like the Wincentive Savings Account, can make saving more engaging. Tune in to learn how to build a sustainable savings habit and achieve financial peace of mind.