Money Donuts®

What actually counts as an emergency fund, and how is it different from your regular savings? From surprise car repairs to concert tickets, we’re breaking down where your money should go (and how to start saving without stress).

You had questions, and we’ve got answers (or at least Cooper does 😄). This time, we’re talking about why saving money can feel impossible, even if you’re usually pretty disciplined. From gas prices to daily temptations, we dive into the real-life reasons saving is tough and share simple ways to make it easier.

Scammers are getting smarter,and the tactics they use continue to change. In this episode, the Money Donutsteam is joined by fraud analyst Misty to review common scams and consider howemotions and urgency are used to try and trick people. We also look at how AIis enabling new types of fraud, share red flags that are often missed, andcover scam prevention techniques to help protect you and your mon...

In this episode of Money Donuts, the hosts explore the growing anxiety around managing money in an increasingly digital world. From online payments to app-based banking, it can sometimes feel uncertain—did that transaction go through, and is your money really safe? The team shares relatable experiences, breaks down common concerns, and offers practical tips to help you feel more confident navigati...

With so many opinions about how much you should save or when you should retire, it’s easy to wonder if you’re doing enough. In this donut hole, the Money Donuts® crew discusses why financial timelines look different for everyone and how calculators, goal setting, and expert advice can help you understand where you really stand.

In this quick Donut Hole episode, we break down what actually moves your credit score—and how to improve it fast. From payment history to credit utilization, our experts explain the biggest factors that can help (or hurt) your score. You’ll also learn practical strategies like paying down credit cards or using a consolidation loan to boost your credit if you’re preparing for a major purchase like...

In this episode of Money Donuts, the hosts sit down with a Consumer Loan Underwriting Manager to break down how the car-buying land scape has evolved in 2026. From shifting market trends to what lenders are seeing behind the scenes, the conversation offers a timely look at what’s impacting auto loans right now. The team covers what to expect when financing a vehicle, how to prepare, and smart tips...

Starting your financial journey can feel intimidating, especially with so many opinions and strategies out there. In this donut hole, Cooper explains why money advice isn’t one-size-fits-all and how finding trusted guidance can help you move forward toward your financial goals.

Paying off debt isn’t a sprint — it’s more like a marathon. So how do you stay motivated when the finish line feels so far away? In thisDonut Hole, the Money Donuts® crew shares real-life strategies to keep yourmomentum strong and celebrate small wins. Because staying motivated might justbe the secret ingredient to becoming debt-free!

In this Donut Hole, the team explores when rolling your debtinto one payment can be a smart strategy and when it can cost you more in thelong run. If you are craving simplicity but want to be sure it truly helps,this bite-sized episode is for you!

In this episode of Money Donuts, the hosts dive into the debate of buying the cheap option versus going for the more expensive one. Is spending more always worth it, or can the budget-friendly choice get the job done? The team shares stories, perspectives, and tips on how to decide when to save, when to splurge, and how to strike the right balance in your everyday spending.

Trying to decide which debt to tackle first can feel likestanding in the middle of a financial snowstorm. Do you go with the snowballmethod for quick wins? Or the avalanche method to save on interest? In thisDonut Hole, the Money Donuts® crew breaks down the differences, the pros andcons, and how to choose a strategy that works best for you.

The Money Donuts® crew breaks down the biggest mistake people make when trying to become debt-free and why it can leave you feeling discouraged. With a few small changes, you can stop feeling stuck and start making real progress toward that debt-free finish line!

In this episode of MoneyDonuts, we’re doing a deep dive into Royal’s self-service toolkit and sharingpractical ways to build financial confidence at any age and stage of life. Thehosts explore Royal’s helpful resources like financial calculators, EnrichOnline Learning, the Debbie rewards app, and the Silvur retirement platform tohelp you set goals, stay motivated, and keep moving forward one step...

In this episode of MoneyDonuts, the hosts are joined by a special guest to dive into the financialrealities of raising kids. From diapers to college tuition, the crew exploresthe various expenses parents face and offer tips on how to manage these costseffectively. Join us as we discuss the hidden costs, unexpected expenses, andstrategies to help keep your family’s finances on track.  

Curious how kids think aboutmoney? Hear about it firsthand as Steve sits down with special guests from alocal elementary school in Royal Credit Union’s School $ense program. Weexplore what it means to learn about money at an early age, hear how studentfinancial education programs make an impact, and get insights into money from a5th grader! rcu.og/podcast

We embarked on a summer fun savings challenge in episode 55, and now it’s time for the results! Tune in as the Money Donuts hosts revisit their vlogged adventures that challenged them to get creative and think outside the box for low-cost summer fun. Plus, one host wins it all as the Super Summer Fun Saver!

In this special collaborationepisode of Money Donuts, we team up with the Running On Air podcast fromthe Eau Claire Marathon! We’re talking all things 2026 marathon, the charitiesbenefiting from the 10k Charity Classic, and practical budget tips every runner(and future runner) should know. Whether you’re lacing up for your first 10k orplanning your next big race, this episode is packed with insigh...

On this episode, hosts Cooper and Steve chat with Jeff and Joshua from Royal’s Learning & Development team to discover how to harness a growth mindset to take yourself to the next level – whether that’s in your career, in your finances, or in almost any other adventure. Get ready to stretch your brain without pulling a muscle as we learn what a growth mindset means and why it matters.

In this summer episode of theMoney Donuts podcast, hosts Cooper, James, Steve, and Alexis share theirfavorite low-cost summer activities and creative ways to make the most of theseason without breaking the bank. Whether you're planning a staycation, lookingfor family-friendly fun, or just need budget-friendly ideas to beat the heat,this episode is packed with inspiration! Plus, the team introd...

In this episode of Money Donuts, the hosts are joinedby Comprehensive Lending Specialist Heather to dive into the world of auto loanrefinancing. Whether you're curious about lowering your interest rate,adjusting your monthly payment, or just want to learn how refinancing works,this podcast has you covered. Heather walks us through the ins and outs ofrefinancing an auto loan at Royal Credit Union,...

Hosts Cooper, Steve, andAlexis are joined by High School Tellers Ary and Max who share what it’s liketo be part of Royal’s High School Teller Internship program. From building jobskills to learning about money and marketing, they give a behind-the-sceneslook at how their internship has equipped them to help their peers and preparefor future career opportunities.

In this episode of MoneyDonuts, hosts Cooper and Steve are joined by Royal team member Mikaela whoshares how she turned her passion for photography into two sidehustles—including a nonprofit helping no-to-low-income individuals. She alsotalks about the financial side of running a small business and why the rightaccounts matter. If you’re looking to start your own side hustle, tune in forhelpful ti...

Investing in real estate orexpanding your business portfolio? In this episode of Money Donuts, the hostsare joined by Royal Commercial Loan Officer Scott to explore how commerciallending can help Members take the next big step with investing. Learn howfinancing works, what lenders look for, and how smart borrowing strategies canset you up for long-term success.

Steve and three special guests share their thoughts about the financial considerations of owning a pet! This episode is packed with advice about how to approach pet expenses, from making and modifying a budget to having a separate pet account. It’s also a great introduction to some of the real-world costs (and cost savings) that come with pet parenting!