Better Lives Podcast with CWCU

Send us Fan Mail  In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, we sit down with Amanda Curran, CWCU's Director of Retail, to explore what member experience really means at a credit union. We discuss how building trust, providing personalized service, and putting people first creates stronger financial relationships. 

Send us Fan Mail Build a little breathing room into your finances. In this episode of the Money Reset series, Kaitlin and Erik share why your first buffer matters, how to start saving, and why even a small emergency fund can make a big difference. 

Send us Fan Mail What is Honor Flight, and why does it matter? In this episode, Rebecca and Kellie talk with Southwest Willamette Valley Honor Flight about the work they do to recognize and celebrate the service of our local veterans.

Send us Fan Mail  In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, Kaitlin sits down with Bob Waddington, Senior Manager of Learning and Development at CWCU, to explore how employee training helps create a better member experience through knowledgeable service, strong leadership, and personalized support. 

Send us Fan Mail  In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, we sit down with Chris Singer, Employment Manager at Work Unlimited, to talk about the importance of dignity, independence, and meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

Send us Fan Mail Kaitlin and Michelle continue the Money Reset series by helping you get clear on what you actually spend. From hidden subscriptions to fixed costs that control your budget, this episode shows you how to find your “locked-in” number and stop guessing. 

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Rebecca and Veronica talk with the CEO of ABC House, Karsen O'Bryan, about their mission, the impact of their work, and how they’re making a difference for children and families in our community.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, Rebecca and Kaitlin are joined by Ben Martens from Jackson Street Youth Services to talk about the realities of youth homelessness in our community and the life-changing work being done to support young people in crisis. 

Send us Fan Mail  Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and it’s easier than ever to get caught off guard. In this episode, Tyler and John from CWCU break down the most common scams they’re seeing right now, how they work, and the red flags to watch for. 

Send us Fan Mail In the first episode of our new Money Reset series, Kaitlin and Michelle talk about the moment many people experience, the financial “wake up call.” 

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Better Lives Podcast, we introduce CWCU’s new Roadrunner Debit Card in partnership with the LBCC Foundation and explore how it will support students at Linn-Benton Community College.  Joined by Executive Director Steven Broncheau and student leader Michelle Kyle, we discuss the Foundation’s mission, the real barriers students face, and how this partnership h...

Send us Fan Mail  In this episode, we talk about the invisible job of managing money and responsibilities at home and why one person often carries more of the mental load. We share why it happens, how resentment can build, and what simple changes can help you feel more like a team. 

Send us Fan Mail You got a raise… so why doesn’t it feel like one? This episode breaks down lifestyle inflation, the sneaky ways spending rises with income, and what you can do to enjoy your raise without feeling stuck in the same financial place. 

Send us Fan Mail With interest rates beginning to shift, many homeowners are wondering if now is the right time to refinance. In this episode, Michelle and Kaitlin sit down with Sue Wack, Mortgage Loan Originator at Central Willamette Credit Union, to break down what refinancing really means, when it makes sense, and when it might not. 

Send us Fan Mail Join hosts Kaitlin and Michelle as they sit down with Alex Singletary, Mortgage Loan Originator at Central Willamette Credit Union. In this episode we will discuss home interest rates and what buyers can do to be prepared for changing rates in 2026. 

Send us Fan Mail Bonus Episode! We’re dropping a special episode outside our usual schedule! Kaitlin and Michelle are joined by Eugene Branch Manager Kellie Marshall to share practical tips for making the most of your money this holiday season.

Send us Fan Mail This episode of the Better Lives Podcast explores how to enjoy the holiday season without overspending. The hosts break down a simple three-step budgeting plan, smart ways to save, and creative gift ideas that won’t strain your wallet. Learn how a little planning can ease holiday stress and set you up for a financially confident new year. 

Send us Fan Mail In this special International Fraud Awareness Week episode, hosts Kaitlin and Michelle break down today’s most common scams, including impersonation, phishing, and new AI-driven fraud, sharing practical tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe.

Send us Fan Mail  Helen Higgins, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis, joins us to share her leadership journey and the Club’s mission to create opportunities, support families, and build a sense of community for local kids. 

Send us Fan Mail Erik sits down with Lending Specialist Keri Elrich to talk all things wellness! Learn how Central Willamette Credit Union's Wellness Program supports employees, adds fun to healthy living, and what new initiatives are on the way.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Better Lives Podcast, we sit down with Tracy Jones and Ben Kaufman from Oregon Coast Community College’s Student Support Team. Discover how OCCC helps students and families access vital resources like food, housing, financial aid, and more. Learn about the unique challenges facing coastal communities, the power of partnerships, and inspiring stories of stude...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Better Lives Podcast , we talk with Amellio Carney, Branch Manager of Central Willamette Credit Union’s Salem Lancaster branch. Amellio shares how his journey through banking led him to discover the power of putting people before profits. He discusses how CWCU’s member-first culture, community involvement, and team empowerment create better experiences for b...

Send us Fan Mail Join hosts Kaitlin and Erik as they chat with Rebecca, Senior Manager Community Engagement about what the CE team does for the credit union, and the wonderful initiatives that they are involved in.

Send us Fan Mail On this episode, your hosts reveal how your car can be a money-making machine! Discover various ways to earn extra income through ridesharing, delivery apps, car rentals, and even car advertising. 

Send us Fan Mail This episode of the Better Lives Podcast will introduce credit scores, explaining their importance and offering practical tips for improvement. Key topics include payment history, credit utilization, strategies for building credit, and common mistakes to avoid.  Get ready to uncover common pitfalls and grab some actionable tips to boost your score.