Financial Tea in the Morning

Grab your favorite cup and join us as we spill the tea on your next smart money moves! Think of the show as an easy addition to your morning routine. While you’re enjoying your first sips in the morning, or brushing your teeth, or on your way to work, we'll demystify money to help you and your family reach your goals. Stick around to the end of each episode for your Financial Tea “Hot Sip”, one actionable takeaway that you can use today to up your financial game. Get your tea ready...

Financing Any Student’s Educational Future: FAFSA Tips with Ruben Reyes, New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation 06/15/2022

Financing Any Student’s Educational Future: FAFSA Tips with Ruben Reyes, New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation Ready for back to school? Whether you’ve got a college freshman about to spread their wings or a high school graduate intent on certification in a skilled trade, the bill for whatever comes next will arrive sooner than you think. Hosts Andrea Klunder and Josh Stringer close out the season with financial aid tips plus plenty of resources to help anyone navigating life and debt after high school––with Ruben Reyes, New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation (NMEAF), a provider of New Mexico student loans. Want to know the best time to apply for post-secondary education funding options? “As soon as you can,” advises Ruben. With most financial aid awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, your chances of securing more money increase when you apply early. And often. Many folks don’t realize they can apply for financial aid each year that a student attends college or trade school. But where to begin? Regardless of your graduate’s plans or your family’s financial status, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form is the place to start. FAFSA data is critical to determining federal aid eligibility, including grants that recipients aren’t required to pay back. The FAFSA is easy to navigate and includes the most current information on application deadlines for each state, award amounts, and eligibility assistance. Still, some opt-out of the FAFSA because they don’t think their need is great enough. Ruben urges them to reconsider. “I always say just do it because you never know.” For those needing additional guidance, the NMEAF has many recommendations for funding their educational future, including Money Mondays, the Q & A session for all things FAFSA. Ruben also suggests contacting the financial aid offices of your short-listed universities or schools to learn about funding options like merit-based scholarships and local monetary awards. Del Norte Credit Union, for example, offers DNCU account holders access to its scholarship program through the Del Norte LOV Foundation. Don’t let financial aid go unclaimed. There’s a funding path for every educational endeavor and economic status. All you have to do is ask. “I see a lot of good things coming,” says Ruben, “and it's because of these new students that are coming into our world now.” Financial Tea Hot Sip: Fill out that FAFSA! It’s the quickest, easiest way to assess your eligibility for grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. For those with more lead time, open a 529 savings plan for your student today. And for everyone with a student in their life, never miss an opportunity to let them know how special they are and how proud you are of them. RESOURCES MENTIONED - 1-800-279-9777 FEATURED GUEST Ruben Reyes Provider of New Mexico Student Loans Learn more and send your feedback and questions at: *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at Technical Director: Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Josh Stringer & Andrea Klunder Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at Disclosures Del Norte Credit Union is Federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender, NMLS ID 500583. Content in this episode is for entertainment purposes only and not financial advice. /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/23427752

Your Most Profitable Day: Business Financial Services with Kevin Southwick and Linda Rodriguez Brandt 06/01/2022

Your Most Profitable Day: Business Financial Services with Kevin Southwick and Linda Rodriguez Brandt Del Norte Credit Union has helped people achieve their personal financial goals for over 65 years. Now, DNCU is applying that same fiscal know-how to small business banking. Hosts Andrea Klunder and Josh Stringer introduce folks to DNCU’s brand new small business department with its enhanced menu of services, including loans, remote deposit, payroll services plus business checking and savings options that cater to your needs––with Del Norte Credit Union’s Kevin Southwick, Chief Member Business Officer, and Linda Rodriguez Brandt, Business Services Development Officer. While DNCU’s small business services focus on micro-to-medium businesses, the enthusiasm from two of its leading representatives is super-sized. “We are really excited to have this new department at our institution,” says Kevin. “We focus on the community. That's where our heart is; that's where our passion is.” What better way to share that passion with surrounding communities than by providing additional opportunities for financial success? “We want to see people happy in the flourishing and comfortable, economically, and we think the key to that is to advocate and hold up the small businesses that are really the heartbeat of Santa Fe.” Linda shares Kevin’s commitment to local entrepreneurs and small business owners. “I want to help give them the tools and the resources and information they need or want to succeed and grow their business in the community and flourish so their life is the best that it can be.” She understands that the financial aspects of turning a dream into reality can feel intimidating, not to mention isolating. DNCU’s business services offer practical solutions to minimize challenges, maximize potential, and build lasting relationships so you never have to go it alone. Now’s the time to get down to (small) business. Del Norte Credit Union is the perfect partner. Financial Tea Hot Sip: Ready to talk to a credit union about your small business? Kevin recommends not getting caught up in dollars and cents. Instead, paint a clear, passionate picture of your goal. A business services representative can help you color in the financial specifics. Not sure if your dream will translate into reality? Linda advises folks to create an action plan by capturing ideas all in one place––on paper or with a favorite notes app. FEATURED GUESTS Kevin Southwick Chief Member Business Officer Linda Rodriguez Brandt Business Services Development Officer Learn more and send your feedback and questions at: *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at Technical Director: Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Josh Stringer & Andrea Klunder Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at Disclosures Del Norte Credit Union is Federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender, NMLS ID 500583. Content in this episode is for entertainment purposes only and not financial advice. /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/23269838

Put Your Money to Work for You, Investing for All Budgets with Scott Covey and Cynthia Frederick, Del Norte Investment Services 05/18/2022

Put Your Money to Work for You, Investing for All Budgets with Scott Covey and Cynthia Frederick, Del Norte Investment Services What is it about investing that holds folks back from growing their money? Fear. The market’s rollercoaster-like peaks and drops keep folks from realizing financial goals like saving for a stress-free retirement or funding higher education. But investing doesn’t have to feel like a crazy carnival ride. As hosts Andrea Klunder and Josh Stringer discover, there’s a strategy for every investment personality, from risk-averse to more tolerant. A trusted financial adviser can help you pick the right financial product and keep you on track through the fluctuations––with Scott Covey, Financial Advisor, Del Norte Investment Services, and Cynthia Frederick, Service Coordinator, Del Norte Credit Union. Many folks shy away from investing because they think the cost of entry is too prohibitive and the toll on their sanity too great. Not so! DNCU members can opt for guaranteed no-risk accounts and start with as little as $1000. As for less queasy investors, Scott cautions against them going it alone via highly volatile trading platforms. “That should not and just can't be the long-term overall strategy for investments,” he says, especially if your goal is retirement. “You have to have a better long-term outlook.” Clients can count on Del Norte Investment Services to connect them to age-appropriate advice and steady, rather than flashy, opportunities for financial growth. Financial Tea Hot Sip: Don’t trust your financial future to friendly suggestions! Consult with the pros (Scott and Cynthia) at Del Norte Investment Services or contact your local credit union to find out what programs and services they can offer. Your team of financial professionals can provide you with reliable strategies to help you reach your goals without worry. FEATURED GUESTS Scott Covey Financial Advisor Cynthia Frederick Service Coordinator Learn more and send your feedback and questions at: *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at Technical Director: Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Josh Stringer & Andrea Klunder Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at Disclosures Del Norte Credit Union is Federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender, NMLS ID 500583. Content in this episode is for entertainment purposes only and not financial advice. /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/23142038

Scammers Beware! Fraud Protection and Prevention Strategies with Judah Montano 05/04/2022

Scammers Beware! Fraud Protection and Prevention Strategies with Judah Montano There’s nothing better than settling in with a bowl of popcorn and a scandalous tale of deceit. When viewed from a safe distance, it's difficult to imagine ever falling prey to those outrageous financial scams. But what happens when the drama hits close to home? Hosts Andrea Klunder and Josh Stringer learn that shame-free discussions coupled with innovative safety measures can prevent real-life swindlers from taking advantage of you and the ones you love––with Judah Montano, Fraud Prevention Manager, Del Norte Credit Union. Money is an emotional matter, so it makes sense that scammers exploit feelings of loneliness, boredom, inadequacy, or worry to gain financial access. “These people spend a lot of time really building a strong social connection with victims,” says Judah, explaining that the attention is often intoxicating, alarming, or both. The speed at which scammers convince even the most cautious individual to wire money overseas or turn over sensitive personal details is dizzying. Seniors are particularly susceptible to financial ruin through windfall emails and courtesy call scams. In the former, the “winner” is notified of tax due before they can collect winnings. In the latter, victims are coerced into helping a fraudulent bank representative rectify erroneous activity on their account. Teens are increasingly at risk via scams conducted over social media. The sugar daddy/sugar mama scheme offers excitement and a lavish lifestyle in return for seemingly innocuous assistance. The FOMO scam also promises a fast track to wealth by tugging at a teen’s fear of missing out on cryptocurrency millions and other get-rich-quick schemes. Del Norte Credit Union’s brand new online banking system protects members from potentially costly scams and identity theft. Nothing’s failproof, however, so Judah advocates for ongoing financial education and transparent communication. “I've always believed that an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.” Financial Tea Hot Sip: Think you or someone you know is the victim of fraud or identity theft? Take a deep breath––then contact , or your trusted local credit union. We can provide you with frontline assistance, intervention, and educational tools. Everything's going to be okay. FEATURED GUEST Judah Montano Fraud Prevention Manager Learn more and send your feedback and questions at: *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at Technical Director: Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Josh Stringer & Andrea Klunder Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at Disclosures Del Norte Credit Union is Federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender, NMLS ID 500583. Content in this episode is for entertainment purposes only and not financial advice. /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/22994837

Fostering a Vibrant Financial Future with Connie Tooker Nuñez, Del Norte LOV Foundation 04/20/2022

Fostering a Vibrant Financial Future with Connie Tooker Nuñez, Del Norte LOV Foundation Happy Financial Literacy Month! Hosts Andrea Klunder and Josh Stringer celebrate by introducing folks to Del Norte LOV Foundation, the independent charitable organization associated with Del Norte Credit Union. What does philanthropic giving have to do with personal finance? As LOV Foundation Director Connie Tooker Nuñez explains, the funding it provides directly impacts the lives of youth and families within the DNCU community, fostering a vibrant financial future for all. “This region,” says Connie, “is beautiful and rich in diversity and culture. However, there's a lot of underserved young people in our region.” LOV Foundation provides DNCU’s 200+ employees with a dedicated mechanism through which they can lend their time, talent, and treasure to the region. LOV Foundation’s advocacy includes charitable payroll deductions, donations, and scholarships. The organization also supports DNCU’s financial literacy program and the dedicated youth accounts it offers. Additionally, LOV Foundation provides local nonprofits with various avenues for funding via sponsorships and grantmaking. Although only a few years old, the LOV Foundation has proven itself to be a vital community ally, allocating funds to support college aspirations, educational and cultural enrichment, and financial literacy. Connie agrees. “I live and work in this region, and so it's wonderful in order to advance the wellbeing of this region through Del Norte LOV Foundation. It's awesome to do this every single day.” Financial Tea Hot Sip: Give the young person in your life a head start toward financial literacy by opening a . Parents love the Baxter’s Bunch program for its $5 minimum and ease of use. Kiddos love it for the free prize and perks. Score! provides teens with eLearning resources to boost their financial acumen and the option to secure a Score! credit card. is the perfect choice for 18-25-year-olds ready to take total control of their finances. Not in the DNCU service area? Explore youth account options through your local credit union. Not the primary caregiver in a child’s life but still want to contribute to their higher education pursuits? Set up a 529 Plan naming them as the beneficiary. It’s a great way to help kids plan for (and afford!) the future they envision. FEATURED GUEST Connie Tooker Nuñez Director MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Learn more and send your feedback and questions at: *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at Technical Director: Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Josh Stringer & Andrea Klunder Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at Disclosures Del Norte Credit Union is Federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender, NMLS ID 500583. Content in this episode is for entertainment purposes only and not financial advice. /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/22843211

Financial Spring Cleaning: Securing your mortgage or home equity line of credit 04/06/2022

Financial Spring Cleaning: Securing your mortgage or home equity line of credit Home is more than walls and a roof; it’s where we create memories and plan for the future. Home is also a major source of collateral that can be tapped to meet long-term financial goals or cover life’s unexpected expenses. Financial Tea in the Morning is back with a new season, new hosts, and spring cleaning tips to refresh your money mindset. Where better to start than at home? Hosts Andrea Klunder and Josh Stringer discover strategies for turning one of life’s biggest investments into instant cash. They also learn how credit unions ensure that members get the best fiscal fit––with guests Marco Padilla, Chief Lending Officer, Del Norte Credit Union, and Ever Acosta, home equity loan specialist, Del Norte Credit Union. Two of the most popular lending options at a homeowner’s disposal are the home equity loan and home equity line of credit, or HELOC. A home equity loan allows borrowing at a fixed rate with a locked-in monthly payment. On the other hand, HELOCs are attached to fluctuating or variable interest rates. These funds remain accessible via a line of credit, allowing folks to plan, within reason, for the unexpected. No home yet? No problem! Credit unions provide first-time mortgage applicants with competitive rates and community-focused financial literacy. “Even if you don't do the loan with us, I'll actually sit with members and say, ‘Let's go over the paperwork, so you make sure you understand what you're getting,’” says Marco. “That's not a sales technique; that's just us. We want our members to get the best.” Financial Tea Hot Sip: Now’s the time to spring into economic action! Pick up the phone or visit your local credit union to learn how you can become a member. At , you can get started with as little as a $5 deposit. Already a member? Let one of our loan specialists recommend the best home loan product to suit your needs. You might be closer than you think to securing that mortgage! FEATURED GUESTS Ever Acosta Home Equity Loan Specialist Marco Padilla Chief Lending Officer Learn more and send your feedback and questions at: *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at Technical Director: Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Josh Stringer & Andrea Klunder Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at Disclosures Del Norte Credit Union is Federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender, NMLS ID 500583. Content in this episode is for entertainment purposes only and not financial advice. Del Norte Credit Union is Federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender, NMLS ID 500583. Content in this episode is for entertainment purposes only and not financial advice. Rates effective as of 3/28/2022 are subject to change. APR may vary. Stated rates are based on the following scenario: Home purchase transaction, $300,000 purchase price, 20% down payment, 45-day lock period, 740+ credit score, and estimated prepaid finance charged by the lender ($1,250). Estimated prepaid finance charges do not include all costs associated with originating a mortgage and may vary. Not all borrowers qualify for all programs, must meet underwriting guidelines, and are subject to credit review and approval. This does not constitute a commitment to lend. For mortgage loans other than fixed rate loans, it is possible that the borrower’s payment may increase substantially after consummation. The information contained is subject to change without notice. For an exact quote, contact Del Norte Credit Union. /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/22699184

Season 2 - Your Next Smart Money Move 03/25/2022

The Future of Credit Unions Post-Pandemic 08/09/2021

The Future of Credit Unions Post-Pandemic What will banking and belonging look like in a post-pandemic world? That’s the question Diego posed to all of his guests for this season’s finale. Their answers remind us that through it all, credit unions remain powered by the people they serve. Remember the before-times? If you’re a credit union member or employee, your banking experience probably looked, sounded, and even smelled a bit different than it does now. From the friendly faces that greeted you by name to that cup of coffee (or tea) always at the ready, visits to a brick-and-mortar location never failed to amplify the credit union difference: community connection. When COVID-19 forced the doors to close and the coffee to go cold, it necessitated the need for credit unions to have an even more significant online presence. But what do institutions miss when they expand to digital? And how do credit unions bridge the distance between past, present, and future? Beyond obvious pivots like temporary shifts to drive-thru only services, credit unions around the world have taken the opportunity to combine their interpersonal expertise with online innovation. We’ve learned that we can be a digital bank with brick-and-mortar community roots, meeting our members’ needs where the fintechs and big banks can’t. After all, our focus has never rested solely on the products we offer. To that end, we’re excited about sharing new endeavors with our members and thrilled with initiatives that promote women and people of color into credit union leadership positions. That’s the future of credit unions. That’s belonging. Learn more and tell us what it means to YOU to belong: Financial Tea Hot Sip: Have recent spring cleaning efforts left you with stacks of old statements and documents? Did you know that credit unions can help clear the clutter? Check with your local credit union to see when their next shredding event will take place. You don't even have to be a member to participate! Credit unions welcome everyone in their community. Featured Guests Juan Fernández Ceballos President and CEO Kristin Harrison Director of Business Development WebStrategies, Inc. Malcolm Keyte Business Development Manager 6Towns Credit Union, UK - Sandwell James Robert Lay Founder & CEO Digital Growth Institute Chris Murrin Sales Experience Support Manager GTE Financial Deb Salazar Chief Experience Officer Tanya Valdez Santa Fe Registered Nurse & DNCU member *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at and mixed by Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Cover art by Leonard Cummings Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/20039177

Mission, Vision, Values: Making an Impact with a Credit Union Career 07/26/2021

Mission, Vision, Values: Making an Impact with a Credit Union Career Belonging cuts both ways with credit unions. In addition to the personalized financial expertise that members receive, credit unions also offer meaningful career opportunities and advancement to their employees. Diego and his guests explore the personal and professional impact that credit unions can have, especially in communities of color - with Juan Fernández Ceballos, president and CEO, Credit Union Association of New Mexico; Deb Salazar, chief experience officer, Del Norte Credit Union; and Chris Murrin, sales experience support manager, GTE Financial. Credit unions aren’t just great places to bank; they’re great places to work, too! Because they cater to the specific needs of their community, every credit union offers its members and staff a chance to truly belong. “Credit unions do great things for the communities, do great things for their customers, their employees,” says Deb, who began her credit union career in 2006. “I went to work for a credit union in Albuquerque, and it was like coming out of the dark into the light.” She’s excited to watch as the next generation of employees define Del Norteño pride for themselves and advance DNCU’s mission, vision, and values in their own unique ways. Like Deb, once Juan started working for a credit union, he never looked back. While his primary focus is on creating more awareness around what credit unions can do for their members, Juan’s also looking at opportunities to recruit young talent into leadership roles, especially among Latinos and people of color. “As we work toward creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive credit union movement, we need to invest in the leadership, coaching, and mentoring programs that are needed to help build up our staff and our members.” There’s no better expression of wholehearted belonging than a credit union career. “We give so much of ourselves for our members, communities, and each other, especially in challenging times,” agrees Chris, adding that the culture has more in common with a family business than an imposing institution. “It just makes you feel like you're part of something,” he says. Learn more and tell us what it means to YOU to belong: Financial Tea Hot Sip: You don’t necessarily need to belong to a specific professional group or organization to become a credit union member. Search for the nearest credit unions in your community. Find one with a mission and culture that fits your needs. You’re just a few clicks away from belonging! Featured Guests Deb Salazar Chief Experience Officer Juan Fernández Ceballos President and CEO Chris Murrin Sales Experience Support Manager GTE Financial *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at and mixed by Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Cover art by Leonard Cummings Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/19907897

Breaking the Cycles of Debt Through Financial Fitness 07/12/2021

Breaking the Cycles of Debt Through Financial Fitness For better or worse, our views and habits about money are shaped by the environments in which we grew up. If the adults around us struggled to maintain solid financial footings, we might inadvertently repeat their cycles of debt. Credit unions offer folks safe, shame-free spaces where they can strengthen their financial fitness. Diego and his guests explore the transformative power of member-focused fiscal education - with Tanya Valdez, Santa Fe registered nurse & DNCU member; Juan Fernández Ceballos, president and CEO, Credit Union Association of New Mexico; James Robert Lay, best-selling author and founder & CEO, Digital Growth Institute; Deb Salazar, chief experience officer, Del Norte Credit Union; and Kristin Harrison, director of business development, WebStrategies, Inc. At a time when very little is taboo in conversation, the topic of personal finances still makes people more uncomfortable than s-e-x. That’s too bad because money always matters: where it comes from, what you do with it, and yes, how you talk about it. “Financial literacy alone, as a standalone, does more harm than good because it creates a pseudo sense of confidence,” says James Robert. “But when you layer that education on top of advisory, what I would call coaching, now we're looking at financial health.” Credit unions are partners in their members’ fiscal well-being. Like gyms, credit unions offer support through various tools, programs, and options designed to strengthen core money muscles. When you’re in top-notch fiscal health, those around you are more likely to learn from the example you’ve set. Still, long-held shame around one’s ability to manage money can often prevent a person from seeking comprehensive, compassionate assistance. Credit unions don’t play the blame game or pressure members into unfit options. They put members on a path towards their goals or point them in the direction of someone who can help them now. “I often tell people that money is money,” Juan says. “Either you have a plan for money, or money has a plan for you. And, when money has a plan for you, it's not a good plan.” Credit unions foster relationship-focused conversations in which money matters are no longer taboo. Hey, financial fitness may not be the sexiest topic, but, as Juan explains, “It's a topic that can really change your life.” Learn more and tell us what it means to YOU to belong: Financial Tea Hot Sip: Next time you're thinking about making a big purchase, use a financial calculator. You can look at how much interest you'll pay per month. Sometimes institutions offer better rates if you choose a shorter term, but that may mean a higher monthly payment. Knowing this information upfront is crucial, saving you time and money. Featured Guests Tanya Valdez Santa Fe Registered Nurse & DNCU member Juan Fernández Ceballos President and CEO James Robert Lay Founder & CEO Digital Growth Institute Deb Salazar Chief Experience Officer Kristin Harrison Director of Business Development WebStrategies, Inc. *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at and mixed by Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Cover art by Leonard Cummings Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/19762640

Relationship Banking in a Digital World 06/28/2021

Relationship Banking in a Digital World Digital banking and belonging aren’t mutually exclusive propositions, at least not for credit unions. Diego and his guests discuss the innovative interactive technologies that credit unions use to enhance member experience and strengthen relationships - with Tanya Valdez, Santa Fe registered nurse & DNCU member; Kristin Harrison, director of business development, WebStrategies, Inc.; James Robert Lay, founder & CEO, Digital Growth Institute; and Chris Murrin, sales experience support manager, GTE Financial. If you ask someone why they haven’t switched over to a credit union yet, the most likely answer is, “Because the big banks offer more bells and whistles.” Those big bank bells and whistles come at a high cost. “Are they convenient? Sure. But in a company like that, you're not even a number. You're not even a dot,” says Kristin, explaining that to the behemoth financial technology companies of the world, your hard-earned money barely registers. On the other hand, credit unions offer the same great digital features as a big bank with the added benefit of knowing that members - not numbers - are all working towards a common goal: fiscal security. Another reason people don’t switch to a credit union? They simply don’t like change. That’s also true for members who are wary of adopting new technology. “Money is one of the most emotional and stressful subjects that we all deal with,” says James Robert. “We must keep people at the center of all of our thinking, all of our doing.” Here, too, credit unions lead the big banks by creating solutions that meet our members where they are. Swipe payments and transfers, online mortgage applications, and interactive teller machines are just some of the ways we center our members while providing the personalized service they’ve come to expect. “I truly think we'll always have a branch presence. It may not look like it does today, obviously,” Chris says, adding that credit union branches don't look like they did 20 years ago, either. “I think we're always changing with the times.” Read more and tell us what it means to YOU to belong: Financial Tea Hot Sip: Taking care of each other also means taking care of ourselves, and our planet. Did you know that e-statements reduce your carbon footprint while keeping your identity safe? Paperless privacy is a win-win! Ask your credit union how you can get started today. Featured Guests Tanya Valdez Santa Fe Registered Nurse & DNCU member Kristin Harrison Director of Business Development WebStrategies, Inc. James Robert Lay Founder & CEO Digital Growth Institute Chris Murrin Sales Experience Support Manager GTE Financial *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at and mixed by Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Cover art by Leonard Cummings Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/19610378

Local Banking With a Global Vision 06/14/2021

Local Banking With a Global Vision Credit unions are local where it matters, no matter where in the world they’re based. Diego and his guests explore this credit union commitment to community and the universal desire to empower every member fiscally - with Tanya Valdez, DNCU member; Juan Fernández Ceballos, president and CEO, Credit Union Association of New Mexico; Malcolm Keyte, business development manager, 6Towns Credit Union, West Bromwich, UK; and Chris Murrin, sales experience support manager, GTE Financial, Tampa, FL. So, you deposit money into a traditional bank account. Where does it go after that? In today’s consolidated corporate marketplace, the answer is often far, far away. Credit unions are different. We build long-term relationships which allow us to design unique options for the communities we serve. Nowhere was that credit union advantage more evident than during the height of the pandemic. Tanya appreciated the security her membership provided back then and the initiatives it’s supporting now. In the last year, people have paid greater attention to their closest relationships. Credit unions have always operated from this focus on local responsibility. “When you put dollars at Del Norte Credit Union, for example, that money gets lent right back into the community, so you are helping to create jobs,” explains Juan, adding, “you are helping drive growth opportunities and employment right within our communities.” While locale and size may differ, every credit union understands membership in the same way. It’s all about belonging. Malcolm agrees. “Over the past 12 months, I have found it's been very much connected on a more basic level.” Credit unions meet members where they are, accompanying them throughout their entire financial journey, from opening a checking account to securing loans and saving for retirement. “We are truly focused on the long-term relationship with that member,” says Chris. Financial Tea Hot Sip: Local credit unions are part of a national network of ATMs and full-service branches. That means no matter where you go, from New Hampshire to New Mexico and all points in between, you always have fast, friendly access to your money. We want to hear from you... what does it mean to YOU to belong? Thank you to our featured guests: Tanya Valdez Santa Fe Registered Nurse & DNCU member Juan Fernández Ceballos President and CEO Malcolm Keyte Business Development Manager 6Towns Credit Union, UK - Sandwell Chris Murrin Sales Experience Support Manager, GTE Financial *** Financial Tea in the Morning is brought to you by Produced and Edited by Andrea Klunder at and mixed by Edwin R. Ruiz Recording Engineer: Kabby at in Santa Fe Hosted by Theme music by Ricardo Lambert Cover art by Leonard Cummings Logo design by Charlie Gonzalez at /episode/index/show/financialtea/id/19442174

People Helping People: The Credit Union Difference 05/18/2021

Season 1 Trailer - Get Your Tea Ready! 05/18/2021

Financial Tea in the Morning

TOPICS