Mindful Money

June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the opportunities and resources that help make owning a home possible. In this month’s episode of the Mindful Money Podcast, we are joined by Elisa Cooley, Executive Director of REACH, for an encouraging conversation about the homebuying journey and why it may be more attainable than many people think.Together, we discuss common barriers people face when considering homeownership, including credit concerns, financial uncertainty, and simply not knowing where to begin. Elisa shares how REACH helps individuals and families navigate those challenges through education, guidance, and support that build confidence along the way.One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is simple: buying a home does not have to feel overwhelming. With the right resources and preparation, homeownership can become a realistic goal for more people than they realize.Whether you are preparing to buy your first home or simply exploring what homeownership could look like in your future, this is an episode you will not want to miss.Tune in for practical insights, helpful guidance, and encouragement for anyone interested in taking the next step toward homeownership.🔗 UK Credit Union’s Mindful Money Center: https://www.ukcreditunion.org/discover/mindful-money🔗 Learn more about REACH: https://www.reachky.org

April is Financial Literacy Month, a reminder that knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect our finances. In this special episode of the Mindful Money Podcast, we sit down with UK Credit Union experts Jamiel Miller-Dunn, BSA Financial Analyst, and Jordan Imlay, BSA & Fraud Mitigation Officer, who work on the front lines of fraud prevention every day.Together, they break down some of the most common scams affecting members right now, from schemes targeting young people opening their first checking accounts to more complex attacks aimed at professionals with established retirement savings. They also dive into trending tactics like car wrap scams and other evolving strategies fraudsters are using to stay one step ahead.This conversation reinforces an important truth. Financial literacy is not just helpful, it is essential. Recognizing red flags, staying informed, and knowing how to respond can make all the difference in protecting what matters most.If you are looking to stay informed and build confidence in your financial decisions, this is an episode you will not want to miss. Tune in and take a step toward protecting your financial future, not just during Financial Literacy Month, but all year long.🔗 UK Credit Union’s Mindful Money Center: https://www.ukcreditunion.org/discover/mindful-money 🔗 Learn more about UK Credit Union: https://www.ukfcu.org/discover/about-us

In this episode, we’re joined by Caroline Francis, Director of the University of Kentucky Alumni Career Services Program, for a timely and insightful conversation about navigating life after graduation, from your first job all the way to retirement.Today’s financial journey looks very different than it did a generation ago. Rising costs of living, evolving career paths, and the growing need for multiple income streams like side businesses are reshaping what financial stability looks like. And retirement? It doesn’t always start in your 60s anymore. With longer lifespans and changing financial realities, building a plan that supports a potentially decades-long retirement takes strategy and intention.Caroline shares expert guidance on career development, financial wellness, and how to adapt at every stage of life, whether you’re still in school, recently graduated, or preparing for what’s next.Tune in for a forward-thinking conversation on building a sustainable financial future, making informed career decisions, and taking advantage of the resources available to you through our partners at University of Kentucky Alumni Career Services.🔗 Learn more about UK's Alumni Career Services: https://www.ukalumni.net/s/alumni-career-services🔗 Learn more about UK Credit Union: https://www.ukfcu.org/discover/about-us

In this episode, we’re joined by Todd Moore, Education & Outreach Director at Trinity Debt Management, for an insightful conversation on financial wellness and navigating today’s evolving credit landscape. Todd shares his journey into financial services, some of the most impactful moments of his career, and timely insights on the growing influence of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) programs.We explore how BNPL options can impact spending—especially during the holiday season—why caution is critical, and how these tools can be used responsibly. Todd also highlights the positive potential of BNPL, including opportunities to build credit when managed the right way.Tune in for a fun, informative discussion packed with practical tips on protecting your credit, making smarter financial decisions, and staying ahead of the curve—with support from our trusted partners at Trinity Debt Management.🔗 Learn more about Trinity Debt Management: https://www.trinitycredit.org 🔗 Learn more about UK Credit Union: https://www.ukfcu.org/discover/about-us

In honor of Black History Month, we sit down with Dr. Roszalyn Akins, founder of the Black Male Working Academy and a champion for educational equity. Dr. Akins shares her journey growing up in Lexington, her passion for closing the achievement gap, and how she is empowering young Black men to reach their full potential.Learn about the transformative impact of the BMWA, the importance of mentorship, and the community collaborations driving its success. Dr. Akins also reflects on her role as the First Lady of First Baptist Church Bracktown and how her faith and upbringing inspired her commitment to education and leadership.Join us for an inspiring conversation on leadership, legacy, and the power of community.To learn more about BMW Academy visit: https://www.bmwacademyky.org/letter-for-our-executive-director/To learn more about UKFCU visit:https://www.ukfcu.org/discover/about-us

Welcome to UK Federal Credit Union's Mindful Money Podcast, where we share expert tips and inspiring stories to keep your finances in check while maintaining your zen.EPISODE THREE: A CEO’s Perspective - UKFCU’s Growth and Leadership PhilosophyWe’re sitting down with Ryan Ross, UK Federal Credit Union’s President and CEO, for an inspiring and candid conversation. Ryan shares his journey growing up in the credit union industry, his vision for UKFCU’s future, and the values that drive his leadership style.Discover how UKFCU is making strides with the grand opening of our first branch outside of Fayette County, and why prioritizing employee wellness is key to building a thriving organization. Ryan also offers valuable career advice, shares how he maintains work-life balance, and gives us a glimpse into his personal life as he settles into Kentucky.Follow us on you preferred social media platform.Learn more at ukfcu.org!

Welcome to UK Federal Credit Union's Mindful Money Podcast, where we share expert tips and inspiring stories to keep your finances in check while maintaining your zen.EPISODE TWO: Don't Fall Victim to Online Scams this Holiday SeasonIn this episode of UKFCU's Mindful Money Podcast, Morgan sits down with Shellie May, Executive Director of Senior Protection and Mediation with the Kentucky Attorney General's Office. Shellie, an expert on recognizing and preventing scams, shares valuable insights on how fraudsters may target you this holiday season—and how to stop them in their tracks.Follow us on you preferred social media platform.Learn more at ukfcu.org!

Andrew Miller from UKFCU sits down with University of Kentucky student-athletes Isabella Magnelli (UK Dance Team) and Fernando Beltran (UK Cheer Team) to discuss the valuable financial lessons they've learned throughout their college experience. With the recent changes in NIL laws, student-athletes now have more opportunities than ever to earn an income, and Isabella and Fernando share how they've navigated this new landscape.A big thank you to Isabella and Fernando for taking the time to share their financial journey with us!Follow UKFCU on your preferred social media platform.Visit www.ukfcu.org to learn more.