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PODCAST · education

Making Sense of your Cents

Feeling overwhelmed by your finances? Wish you could get clear, simple advice from a trusted source? Welcome to "Making Sense of your Cents," the weekly podcast from First Century Bank that gives you actionable financial tips.Join hosts Daniel Hill and Shanna Browning as they cut through the confusing jargon to help you build financial confidence. Whether you're looking to understand your credit score, create a budget that actually works, spot the difference between APY and APR, or protect yourself from scams, we're here to help.Our mission is to empower our community with friendly, practical money knowledge. Subscribe now and start making sense of your cents, one simple tip at a time.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Jun 12, 2026 · Source feed

  1. 35

    35 - Teaching Kids (Under 12) About Money

    How do you teach your kids about money without it becoming a chore? In this episode of "Making Sense of Your Cents," Daniel and Shanna break down the "Three-Jar System" for kids under twelve—an easy, visual way to introduce the concepts of spending, saving, and giving. We discuss why giving your kids the freedom to make small "money mistakes" now is the best way to prepare them for bigger financial decisions later. Plus, we answer common parent questions about chore-based allowances and the "24-hour rule" for impulse purchases, and we share our actionable tip: The Match Program—a simple strategy to supercharge your child's savings and show them the power of growth. Tune in to turn those kitchen table conversations into lifelong habits! Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  2. 34

    34 - Vacation Planning: Travel Without Debt

    Planning a getaway doesn't have to mean planning for debt! In this episode of "Making Sense of Your Cents," Daniel and Shanna break down the "Sinking Fund" strategy—the smartest way to pay for your vacation before you ever leave the driveway. We discuss the hidden costs of using credit for travel, the psychology of "guilt-free" spending, and how to automate your savings so your next trip is fully funded. Plus, we answer common community questions about balancing emergency savings with travel goals and getting the whole family on board with your vacation budget. Tune in for a simple, automated actionable tip that will change the way you look at summer planning forever! Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  3. 33

    33 - The Mystery of Escrow: Why Did My Payment Change?

     Why did your monthly mortgage payment suddenly go up? In this episode of "Making Sense of Your Cents," Daniel and Shanna demystify the escrow account. We explain the difference between a fixed-rate mortgage and a fixed monthly payment, break down the "Annual Escrow Analysis," and explain the mandatory account "cushion" required by federal regulations. We also detail the mechanics of the "Life of a Payment" and how escrow shortages are calculated. Plus, we answer common community questions about opting out of escrow and how to handle shortages, and give you an actionable, simple step to review your property tax assessment before your next payment adjustment. Tune in to take the mystery out of your mortgage and regain control of your homeownership budget! Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  4. 32

    32 - Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Mastery: Zelle & Venmo Safety

    Peer-to-peer (P2P) apps like Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App have revolutionized how we split dinner bills and pay friends back—but are you using them safely? In this episode, we break down the reality of P2P payments: why they should be treated like digital cash, the common "accidental payment" scam, and the specific settings you need to lock down in your apps today. Tune in to learn how to verify your recipients, why you should never use these apps for business transactions with strangers, and our simple "$1 Test" workflow to keep your money exactly where it belongs. Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  5. 31

    31 - Small Business 101: Managing Your Side Hustle

    Are you ready to turn your hobby into a business? In this episode, Daniel and Shanna are joined by Chris Rodes, founder of Hangar 37 Coffee, to discuss the transition from side hustle to small business owner. We explore the "Shoebox Moment," the importance of drawing a "Clean Line" between personal and business funds, and why local decisions are the true engine of growth. Tune in to learn how to roast your numbers before you roast your beans, the 30% tax rule you can't afford to ignore, and a simple actionable tip to professionalize your passion todayWhere to Find Hangar 37 CoffeeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hangar37coffeesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hangar37coffee/Website: https://www.hangar37coffee.comTazewell Store: 925 Main St. New Tazewell, TN 37825Harrogate Store: 116 Nettleton Road, Harrogate, TN, 37752Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  6. 30

    30 - Financial Spring Cleaning: Scrubbing Subscriptions

    Is "subscription creep" draining your bank account? In this episode, Daniel and Shanna help you perform a "Financial Spring Cleaning." We explore the rise of the subscription economy, the psychology of "Dark Patterns" designed to keep you paying, and why "ghost subscriptions" are so easy to ignore. Tune in to learn how to hunt down hidden charges in your app stores, the secret to consolidating family plans, and how to negotiate a better rate on your internet or cable. Plus, get our simple "30-Day Scrub" tip to give yourself an immediate raise this week.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  7. 29

    29 - The New Frontier of Fraud: AI & Voice Cloning

    Scammers are no longer just sending suspicious emails—they’re using Artificial Intelligence to clone the voices of the people you love. In this episode, Daniel and Shanna dive into the "New Frontier of Fraud," explaining how AI can mimic a relative in distress with terrifying accuracy using just a 30-second clip from social media. We break down how voice cloning technology works, why you can no longer trust your "Caller ID," and the psychological traps of urgency and isolation scammers use to make you act in a panic. Tune in to learn how to stay one step ahead of the tech and get a simple, low-tech actionable tip—the "Family Code Word"—to protect your loved ones today.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  8. 28

    28 - Rooted in Community: Why Local Decisions Matter

    Your money has power—not just for you, but for your entire community. In this episode, Daniel and Shanna explain what it actually means to be "Rooted in Community" at First Century Bank. We trace the "Life Cycle of a Local Dollar" to show how your deposits fuel local dreams, and we compare the human-driven decisions of our Loan Committee—comprised of senior management who live and work right here—to the cold algorithms of national mega-banks. Tune in to learn why choosing a local bank is a vote for your neighborhood, and get a simple challenge to help you support the "circular economy" in your own community this week. Take a quick photo of your local find or that morning coffee and post it on social media. Use the hashtag #rootedincommunity so we can all share in supporting our neighbors. Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  9. 27

    27 - The Auto Loan Deep Dive: Buying Your Next Ride

    Don’t let the "new car smell" cloud your judgment! In this episode, Daniel and Shanna take you behind the scenes of the auto industry to show you how to walk onto a car lot with total confidence. We break down the massive advantage of stopping by the bank to run your actual numbers first, explain the 20/4/10 rule for budgeting, and reveal why "GAP insurance" might be the most important safety feature you buy. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned pro, tune in to learn how to turn yourself into a "cash buyer" by having your financing plan ready before you ever visit the dealership.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  10. 26

    26 - Tax Day: Last-Minute Sanity & Looking Ahead

    Welcome to the Season 2 premiere of "Making Sense of Your Cents!" With the tax deadline just 24 hours away, Daniel and Shanna are here to help lower your financial blood pressure. In this episode, we provide a last-minute sanity check by breaking down the critical difference between an extension to file and an extension to pay. We also debunk the myth of the "big tax refund" and answer community questions about managing taxes with a side hustle and avoiding common filing mistakes. Tune in for a simple 10-minute tip to help you take total control of your cash flow for the rest of the year. Let's start the new season by making some sense of your cents!Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  11. 25

    25 - The Switch to e-Statements: Faster, Safer, and Simpler

    In our Season 1 finale, we’re focusing on a simple switch that provides a massive upgrade to your security and convenience: e-Statements. Join Daniel and Shanna as they break down why moving away from the paper trail is the fastest and safest way to handle your bank records. We’ll walk you through our easy 4-step enrollment process and explain how immediate digital access puts you in total control. Plus, stick around for a special announcement about the launch of Season 2 coming next week! Make the Switch to eStatements!Note: Must be enrolled in Online Banking prior to enrolling in eStatements.If you’re not enrolled, you can visit www.firstcenturybank.com and click on Enroll in Online BankingSTEP 1: Login to Online BankingSTEP 2: Select the Account you wish to enrollSTEP 3: Select “Estatements SSO”STEP 4: Follow all prompts to complete EnrollmentTip: If you have multiple accounts, repeat Steps 2-4 for each account you wish to enroll.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  12. 24

    24 - Banking for Seniors: Protecting Your Finances in Retirement

    This episode focuses on the unique financial challenges and opportunities of retirement. We discuss practical strategies for simplifying and managing retirement income, including Social Security and RMDs. We also take a deep dive into the most common scams that target seniors, like the "Grandparent Scam" and tech support fraud, and explain the importance of having a trusted contact on your accounts to safeguard your financial well-being.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  13. 23

    23 - Your Annual Financial Check-Up

    Just like a medical physical, your finances need an annual check-up to stay healthy. In this episode, we provide a simple, step-by-step checklist for a yearly financial review. We'll guide you through reassessing your budget, reviewing your credit report, tracking your progress toward your goals, and auditing your subscriptions to find "leaks" in your spending. This is a proactive guide to keeping your financial plan on track.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  14. 22

    22 - Unlocking Your Mobile App: Features You Might Be Missing

    Your banking app can do a lot more than just show your balance. In this episode, we take a guided tour of powerful features you might not be using. We'll show you how to master mobile check deposit, how to set up custom security and balance alerts that act as your personal financial assistant, and how to use card controls to instantly turn your debit card on or off for ultimate peace of mind. Learn to unlock the full potential of the bank in your pocket.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  15. 21

    21 - Banking for the Next Generation: A Guide for Parents & Teens

    How do you teach your teen about money? With Branch Operations Coordinator Shelby Liford, we provide a guide to opening a first checking or savings account. This episode is packed with practical advice for parents, explaining when the right time is to get started, what account features to look for, and how to use this important milestone to instill good financial habits—like saving and tracking spending—that will last a lifetime. Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  16. 20

    20 - All About HELOCs: Using Your Home's Equity Wisely

    Your home has value you can use. With guest Megan Zielinski, VP/Area Executive, we explain the Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). In this episode, you’ll learn how to calculate your home's equity, how a HELOC's "draw" and "repayment" periods work, and the smart ways to use this powerful financial tool for things like home renovations. We'll also cover the important responsibilities and risks that come with borrowing against your home.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  17. 19

    19 - Overdrafts Explained: Fees, Protection, and How to Avoid Them

    Overdrafts can be a source of stress and costly fees. Joined by Compliance Operations Specialist Amy Earl, we provide a transparent look at how they work and the choices you have as a consumer. In this episode, you will learn the crucial difference between Overdraft Protection and Overdraft Privilege, understand your important "opt-in" rights for debit card transactions, and discover simple, proactive habits and mobile alerts you can set up to avoid overdrafts altogether.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  18. 18

    18 - FDIC Insurance: Is My Money Really Safe?

    In this episode, we answer one of the most fundamental questions in banking: is my money safe? This episode is a confidence-building deep dive into the protection that backs your deposits. We'll explore the history of the FDIC, explain exactly what's covered (checking, savings) and what's not (investments), and show you how the $250,000 insurance limit works and how you can get even more coverage at a single bank.The FDIC’s Electronic Deposit Insurance Estimator (EDIE)https://edie.fdic.gov/Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  19. 17

    17 - Inflation Explained: Why Your Dollar Buys Less

    Feeling the pinch at the grocery store and the gas pump? This episode is a jargon-free guide to inflation. We demystify what it is, how it's measured using the Consumer Price Index (CPI), and how it impacts your daily life. We'll explain the difference between "demand-pull" and "cost-push" inflation and provide practical, everyday tips for adjusting your family budget to cope with rising prices, fight back against the rising cost of living, and protect your purchasing power.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  20. 16

    16 - The Fed Explained: What a Rate Change Means for You

    You hear "the Fed raised rates" on the news, but what does that actually mean for your wallet? In this episode, we translate the complex headlines into practical, personal knowledge. We'll explain who the Fed is, what their "dual mandate" means, how their decisions directly affect the APY on your savings account, and why the interest rate on your variable-rate credit card goes up when they tighten policy. This episode connects the big picture to your budget.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  21. 15

    15 - The World of Refinancing: When Does It Make Sense?

    Could you be paying less on your car loan or mortgage? In this episode, we explain the pros and cons of refinancing. It can be a powerful tool to save money, but it's not the right move for everyone. We'll discuss the two main reasons to consider refinancing—an improved credit score or a drop in market rates—and teach you how to calculate your "break-even point" on closing costs to see if it's truly worth it for your financial situation.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  22. 14

    14 - Building (or Rebuilding) Credit from Scratch

    Whether you have a blank credit file or are recovering from past financial mistakes, this episode provides a clear roadmap to a better score. We lay out actionable strategies for building a positive credit history, starting from day one. We’ll explore how to leverage a secured credit card to prove your creditworthiness, the benefits of a credit-builder loan, and how becoming an authorized user can provide a powerful head start. It’s never too late to write a new financial story.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  23. 13

    13 - How to Read Your Credit Report

    Your credit report is the official story of your financial life—but is it telling the truth? In this episode, we provide a step-by-step guide to pulling your free annual credit report from the only official source. We'll teach you how to decode the four key sections of your report, how to spot common errors or red flags for fraud, and the exact process for formally disputing an inaccurate item with the credit bureaus to protect your score and your reputation.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  24. 12

    12 - Planning for Major Life Events

    Life's biggest milestones—getting married, having a baby, buying a home—are also major financial events. Joined by CFO Barron D. Kennedy, IV, we discuss the key financial conversations and action steps for these exciting transitions. Learn how to have the "money talk" with your partner before getting married, the non-negotiable financial steps to take when a child is on the way, and how to avoid being "house poor" by buying what you can comfortably afford, not just what you're approved for.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  25. 11

    11 - Protecting Your Identity

    Identity theft goes far beyond a single stolen credit card number. As the bank's Security Officer, Daniel Hill joins Shanna Browning to dive into serious threats like the "Grandparent Scam," elder fraud, and the invisible danger of synthetic ID theft. This episode is a crucial guide to safeguarding your personal information. Daniel and Shanna explain what a credit freeze is, why it's the single most powerful tool for preventing new accounts from being opened in your name, and the proactive steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.Credit Bureau Credit FreezeEquifaxExperianTransUnionSend us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  26. 10

    10 - Spotting a Phish: How to Avoid Common Scams

    Fake emails, suspicious texts, and urgent calls—scammers are working overtime to trick you. In this episode, cybersecurity expert Ben Lawson, GM of Burk IT, joins the conversation to teach you how to spot the red flags of a phishing attack. You'll learn the psychological tricks of urgency and authority that fraudsters use to manipulate you, how to inspect a sender's email address, and hover over links to reveal the truth.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  27. 9

    09 - Digital Banking & Online Security

    Your bank is in your pocket, but is your account secure? Joined by Wesley Minton, COO & Information Security Officer at First Century Bank, we discuss the essential habits for staying safe in the digital world. This episode is a masterclass in personal cybersecurity, explaining what makes a truly "strong" password in the modern era and why Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is the single most effective tool for protecting your account. We'll also cover simple rules for using public Wi-Fi and setting up alerts to turn your phone into a fraud detection system.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  28. 8

    08 - Intro to Mortgages

    The path to homeownership can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we break down the crucial first steps of the mortgage process. This episode is a jargon-free introduction to buying a home with confidence, explaining the critical difference between a pre-qualification and a pre-approval, how to understand your total monthly payment (or "DTI"), and the truth about the 20% down payment myth and other options available to first-time homebuyers.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  29. 7

    07 - Checking, Savings, and Beyond

    Is all your money piled into one checking or savings account? In this episode, Daniel and Shanna explore the financial toolbox of different bank accounts. We’ll explain the specific jobs of Checking, Savings, Money Market, and CD accounts. Learn how to use this "bucket system" to organize your finances, protect your emergency fund, and make your savings work harder for you by matching the right account type to your specific financial goals.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  30. 6

    06 - Demystifying Debit vs. Credit

    Which card should you swipe at the checkout? It’s not about "good" vs. "bad"—it's about using the right tool for the right job. In this episode, we explore the fundamental differences between debit and credit cards, focusing on the crucial distinctions in fraud protection and liability. We’ll also cover how each card impacts your ability to build a credit history and earn rewards, and we'll provide a simple, hybrid strategy to get the best of both worlds: the security of credit and the discipline of debit.Send us Fan MailIs your sensitive financial data sitting in an unsecured mailbox? Switching to e-Statements is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from identity theft. Moving your records from the street into our high-security digital vault provides faster access, clears the clutter, and keeps your information safe. Subscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

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    05 - Creating a Simple Budget That Works

    The word "budget" often brings up feelings of restriction and stress. In this episode, we reframe budgeting not as a financial diet, but as an empowering roadmap for your money. Daniel and Shanna explore simple, sustainable methods that you can actually stick with. We’ll teach you how to use the balanced 50/30/20 rule to categorize your spending without getting overwhelmed, and we’ll explore the power of the "Reverse Budget" for those who hate tracking every penny. Find the right method for your personality and feel in control of your cash flow.Send us Fan MailSubscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

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    04 - Savings 101: Paying Yourself First

    Why is it so hard to save money, even with the best intentions? In this episode, Daniel and Shanna are joined by First Century Bank President & CEO Rob Barger to discuss the single most powerful habit for building long-term wealth: Paying Yourself First. Rob explains the crucial mindset shift from "saving what's left" to treating savings as your most important bill. We’ll discuss how to start saving even if you feel you're living paycheck to paycheck and why automation is the secret weapon for effortless, consistent success.Send us Fan MailSubscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

  33. 3

    03 - Your Credit Score Explained

    Your three-digit credit score holds incredible power over your financial life, affecting everything from loan rates to insurance premiums. But how is it actually calculated? In this deep dive, we pull back the curtain on the credit score formula, breaking down the five key ingredients that make up your score and revealing which ones matter most. We'll also bust common myths, like why you don't need to carry a credit card balance to build credit, and provide simple, practical habits you can start today to build a positive history.Send us Fan MailSubscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

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    02 - APR vs. APY: What's the Difference?

    APR and APY sound almost the same, but one costs you money while the other makes you money. In this episode, Daniel and Shanna demystify these common but confusing acronyms with clear, real-world examples. We'll explore what APR (Annual Percentage Rate) really means for borrowers and why it includes more than just the interest rate. Then, we'll flip the script to explain how APY (Annual Percentage Yield) accounts for the magic of compounding interest, helping your savings grow faster. This is a foundational episode that will make you a smarter consumer and a more effective saver.Send us Fan MailSubscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

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    01 - Welcome to Making Sense of your Cents

    Welcome to "Making Sense of Your Cents," the new podcast from First Century Bank. Have you ever felt intimidated by financial jargon? Join hosts Daniel Hill and Shanna Browning as they break down complex topics into clear, useful information.In our first episode, we share our story. Get to know your hosts and discover the deep community roots of First Century Bank, which began in Tazewell, TN, in 1894 as Claiborne National Bank. Learn the powerful legacy of former president Glenn Yoakum, the man whose life of service inspired the "Mighty Oak" in our logo.This podcast is our modern promise to help our community stay safe and be successful through education. This is your podcast, and we want to discuss what matters to you.Send us Fan MailSubscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

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    Coming Soon - Making Sense of your Cents

    What if your money made sense?For many of us, the world of personal finance can feel complex and intimidating. That's why First Century Bank is launching "Making Sense of your Cents" on Tuesday, November 4th.Join hosts Daniel Hill and Shanna Browning every week as they cut through the jargon to provide clear, actionable financial tips. Our mission is to empower our East Tennessee community with the confidence that comes from understanding your finances.Here’s what you can do right now: Search for "Making Sense of your Cents" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, and hit that “Subscribe” or “Follow” button.By subscribing today, you ensure our first episode will be delivered to your device automatically the moment it goes live. Don’t miss the start of this new conversation. Subscribe now, and get ready to finally make some sense of your cents.Send us Fan MailSubscribe today, wherever you listen to your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcast, etc.) and send your questions to [email protected].

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Feeling overwhelmed by your finances? Wish you could get clear, simple advice from a trusted source? Welcome to "Making Sense of your Cents," the weekly podcast from First Century Bank that gives you actionable financial tips.Join hosts Daniel Hill and Shanna Browning as they cut through the confusing jargon to help you build financial confidence. Whether you're looking to understand your credit score, create a budget that actually works, spot the difference between APY and APR, or protect yourself from scams, we're here to help.Our mission is to empower our community with friendly, practical money knowledge. Subscribe now and start making sense of your cents, one simple tip at a time.

HOSTED BY

First Century Bank

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Making Sense of your Cents have?

Making Sense of your Cents currently has 36 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Making Sense of your Cents about?

Feeling overwhelmed by your finances? Wish you could get clear, simple advice from a trusted source? Welcome to "Making Sense of your Cents," the weekly podcast from First Century Bank that gives you actionable financial tips.Join hosts Daniel Hill and Shanna Browning as they cut through the...

How often does Making Sense of your Cents release new episodes?

Making Sense of your Cents has 36 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Making Sense of your Cents?

You can listen to Making Sense of your Cents on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Making Sense of your Cents?

Making Sense of your Cents is created and hosted by First Century Bank.
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