Small Talks for Big Change

Ready to travel without wrecking your wallet? In this lively episode, Andrew Farrell, Uslea Evangelista, and Veronica Dangerfield share personal travel stories, budgeting hacks, and clever ways to make your adventures affordable. From credit card points to off-season deals and packing tips, they cover it all—plus a few laughs along the way. Whether you're a seasoned jet-setter or dreaming of your...

In this finale of our elder financial abuse mini-series, we sit down with Yolanda Carcamo, APS Supervisor for Alameda County. Yolanda shares how Adult Protective Services investigates financial exploitation, the impact of recent policy changes, and how early intervention can protect vulnerable seniors. Learn how mandated reporters, financial institutions, and everyday community members can work to...

In this heartfelt episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we explore the powerful connection between mental health, aging, and financial safety. Guest Avonelle Hanley-Mills, SOLVE Coordinating Manager, Mental Health Association of SF, shares insights on reducing elder isolation, embracing aging, and preventing scams through community, conversation, and compassion. Learn how early engagement, visibi...

Fraudsters are evolving, but so is the fight against them! In this episode, we sit down with 16-year-old Dublin Highschool student, Aayush Gandhi, founder of Fraud Stop, to uncover the growing dangers of financial scams. From protecting seniors to educating teens, Aayush shares insights on preventing fraud and staying ahead of scammers. Plus, Patelco's collaboration and real-world fraud stories yo...

In this special episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we kick off our mini-series for National Elder Abuse Awareness Month with fraud prevention expert Erwin Lemi. With over 20 years of experience, Erwin shares insights into how elder financial abuse has evolved, the most common scams targeting seniors today, and practical tips for prevention. Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones fro...

In this insightful episode, guest Andrew Farrell returns to explore the psychology of spending. From his successful No Spend Month to understanding emotional triggers and marketing influence, Andrew shares practical strategies to build healthier financial habits. Learn how early money experiences shape behavior and discover tools like the 30-day rule and accountability notes to curb impulse spendi...

In this episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we're joined by Mel Murguia from Patelco Credit Union to explore practical ways to reduce loan payments and increase monthly savings. Learn how Patelco's Switch to Save program, along with options like auto refinancing and HELOCs, can help you make the most of your financial resources—especially during times of economic uncertainty.

Join us for an inspiring episode of Small Talks for Big Change as we celebrate Credit Union Youth Month and National Financial Literacy Month. Hear from high school interns Lei'ani Donaldson and Yesley Romo Quezada about their transformative experiences at Patelco Credit Union through the Genesys Works program. Discover their insights on financial wellness, personal growth, and practical advice fo...

Join us for an engaging episode of Small Talks for Big Change as we chat with Jannine Glista, CEO of Biz Kid$. Discover how Biz Kid$ is revolutionizing youth financial education through innovative classroom initiatives and hands-on experiences. Learn how early financial education is empowering young minds to become future kidpreneurs. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on nurturing financially...

Join us for a special episode of Small Talks for Big Change as we celebrate Financial Literacy Month and National Credit Union Youth Month! We welcome Kelly Young, Patelco's Director of Retail Branches, to discuss the importance of student checking accounts and financial education for teens. Discover how youth can build strong financial foundations, make smart banking decisions, and navigate stude...

Get ready for a fun and enlightening episode as we welcome the fabulous Veronica Dangerfield, Patelco's Senior Financial Well-Being Educator and the newly crowned Educator of the Year! Veronica brings her wit and wisdom to the table as we dive into the rising costs of homeowners insurance and the importance of planning for financial health. With her infectious humor and insightful tips, this episo...

In this episode, host Michele welcomes Charles Brandt, product manager in Patelco's consumer lending department. Charles shares his extensive experience and insights on credit cards, discussing how to choose the right product and use credit responsibly to achieve financial goals. Tune in to learn about Patelco's credit card offerings and how they can help you on your financial journey.

Join us as we welcome back Andrew Farrell, Patelco's community engagement specialist and financial educator, to discuss the transformative concept of a No Spend Month. Discover how this challenge can help you maximize savings, improve financial wellness, and kickstart your journey towards financial freedom. Tune in to learn practical tips, personal experiences, and the motivation you need to take...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Melissa Steed, Assistant Branch Manager at Patelco Credit Union's Folsom branch and a Certified Financial Specialist. Melissa shares her journey from stay-at-home mom to financial expert and offers invaluable tips on family budgeting, smart grocery shopping, and managing expenses. Whether you're feeling the pinch or just looking to optimize your finances...

Join us as we welcome back Jennifer Mink, the queen of financial health. Jennifer shares her insights on setting and achieving financial goals for 2025, including the popular "no spend" resolution. We also discuss the four pillars of financial health: spend, borrow, save, and plan. Tune in for practical tips and inspiring stories to kickstart your financial wellness journey this year!

Join us as we kick off a new year with financial wellbeing experts Jessica Rubalcava and Lauren Goucher from Patelco. They share their career journeys and provide actionable tips on spending wisely, saving effectively, managing debt, and planning for the future. Discover practical strategies and resources to help you achieve your financial goals this year.

As the year winds down and the holiday season picks up, it's the perfect time to set financial boundaries that will set you up for success in the new year. In this episode, Patelco Educators Veronica Dangerfield and Andrew Farrell share actionable strategies for managing holiday spending, communicating your financial limits with loved ones, and staying aligned with your financial goals. Tune in fo...

In this episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we welcome fraud expert Tiffany Kiefer to highlight the most common holiday scams—from fake delivery notices to fraudulent charity requests. Learn how to spot red flags, protect your personal information, and stay safe while shopping this season. Tune in for essential tips to safeguard your wallet and avoid falling victim to scams this holiday season.

Join host Michele Enriquez as she welcomes back Andrew Farrell, Patelco's Community Engagement Specialist, to discuss holiday budgeting. Catch his expert advice on aligning your budget with your values and making the most of your holiday season! Many feel the pressure to spend during the holidays. Andrew shares his practical approach to budgeting, goals, how to manage holiday expenses without sacr...

In this episode, we explore the differences between credit unions and traditional financial institutions. Our guest, Joseph Luque, Central Operations Supervisor at Patelco, shares his extensive experience in the financial services industry. Learn about the unique benefits of credit unions, how they support community financial wellness, and why they might be a better choice for your financial needs...

In this special International Credit Union month episode, we sit down with Flora Nafei, the Executive Director of Credit Union Affairs at Patelco. Flora shares her incredible journey from starting as a part-time teller in New Jersey, to becoming a leading advocate in the credit union industry. With over 30 years in financial services and nearly 15 years dedicated to credit unions, Flora discusses...

In this episode, we welcome Ruben Gonzalez, the Manager of Consumer Loan Processing at Patelco. Ruben shares his insights on the car loan process, emphasizing the importance of financial wellness and member-focused service. Ruben discusses how Patelco's team supports members through every step of financing, ensuring they get the best rates and a smooth experience. Join us for an engaging conversat...

In this episode, host Michele Enriquez and Patelco's Community Giving Partner Cara Houck, discuss the powerful community impact of Patelco Credit Union, focusing on support for local nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity, United Way, Children's Miracle Network and more. Join us as we discuss how Patelco collaborates with organizations to tackle pressing issues like homelessness and economic inequal...

Join Michele Enriquez, as she discusses insights from Patelco's latest webinar on membership perks. Special guest Peggy Wyman, a seasoned financial expert at Patelco Credit Union, shares tips on smart auto buying, retirement planning, and estate management. Discover how Patelco's membership benefits can help you navigate your own financial journey and bring some well-deserved financial wellbeing t...

Join Michele Enriquez and special guests Andrew Farrell and Alexia Razo-Orrego as they unpack all things credit cards. Tune in for expert advice and real-life experiences with interest rates, credit limits, rewards, credit score impacts, and a little guidance on how to choose the right card for you. Regardless of if you are a seasoned cardholder or a newbie this episode was created to help you mak...