Smarter Money Life

We live in a connected world—and that means more convenience and more risk. On this episode of Smarter Money Life, we're joined by fraud expert Ben to share simple, practical ways to protect your accounts, devices, and personal information. For more information, please visit us at Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to,...

By age 16, kids don't need every financial account out there—but they do need the right mix. This is when money starts getting real: paychecks, debit cards, spending choices, and more. In this episode we are breaking down the accounts 16 year olds should have. For more information, please visit us at Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouT...

Feeling stuck financially, even though you're doing all the right things? On this episode of Smarter Money Life, we break down the most common money mistakes-and how small changes can help you get ahead fast. For more information, please visit us at Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information about, any specif...

We see credit decisions every day—and we know how confusing they can feel. In this episode of Smarter Money Life , we'll help you understand how to use credit that fits your lifestyle and improve your financial well-being. For more information, please visit us at Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information abo...

Even pre-teens should start learning about money concepts and in this episode we are answering common questions and sharing a few ways to reinforce important money skills. For more information, please visit us at Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, tradem...

Financial stress rarely comes from one big mistake. In this episode, we break down the everyday money habits—and hidden pressures—that slowly add up. You'll learn practical steps to reduce anxiety, avoid setbacks, and build long term financial stability. For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube ....

Spring isn't just for cleaning out closets - it's a great time to reset your finances.   In this episode we break down simple steps to clean up cash flow, tackle debt, invest smarter, and protect your family. For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information about, any speci...

Maybe what you know about buying a home is not entirely accurate. In this episode Mike Senn is joining Andy and Nicole to debunk a few homebuying myths and share the smart moves to make when buying a home. For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information about, any specific...

Whether you are just starting out a relationship or have been in a long term relationship, this episode will help you improve your financial harmony because being in agreement about money is so important for lasting relationship bliss. For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or i...

Protecting your all your online accounts and using the right tools is critically important to avoid being a victim of fraud. In this episode Andy and Nicole talk about reasons to protect all accounts and effective ways to keep your personal information safe. For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTu...

Starting or adding to your family can be overwhelming and if you have financial concerns it can become very stressful. In this episode, Andy and Nicole break down the smart moves to make when a new baby is coming. For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information about, any...

Are you ready to make better resolutions for 2026? You won't want to miss this episode, as Andy and Nicole share how making SMART goals is the best way to achieve your financial dreams in 2026! For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information about, any specific product or...

Looking for a top ten list to improve your financial life? Then this episode is for you! In this episode, Andy chats with the FORUM experts to compile our year end review list. For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name,...

In this episode, Andy talks about how the holidays provide the perfect opportunity to teach your kids about money management. If you have kids or even if you want to brush up on your own money management skills, this is a great episode for you! For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference...

In this episode, Andy talks with Kevin Umberger, CPA and Director with Blue & Co., LLC, about some of the tax implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This will be beneficial as you prepare to file your 2025 taxes. Please note, the information provided is not intended to be tax advice and should only be used for informational purposes. Please consult your tax advisor for you specific tax si...

In this episode, Andy goes through several tips for BEFORE, DURING, and AFTER your Black Friday shopping to help you be prepared, save money, and reduce stress. This is a great episode for anyone who enjoys tips to help plan for holiday shopping! For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Referen...

In this episode, Andy talks with Bryson Murray, Manager of Indirect Lending at FORUM Credit Union, about the ins and outs of buying or leasing your next car. They go through the pros of buying and the pros of leasing, plus some great tips on negotiating your best deal. You are not going to want to miss the valuable info in this episode! For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life...

In this episode, Andy talks about what it means to live a frugal lifestyle (spoiler: it might not be as dull and boring as you think!), and ways to watch your spending so that you can live frugally and achieve your lifestyle goals! This episode provides helpful tips for anyone who wants to find ways to stretch their income and reach their financial goals. For more information, please visit us at ...

In this episode, Andy talks with Kurt Niles, VP of Underwriting at FORUM Credit Union, about the five main characteristics that lenders examine when reviewing a person's borrowing profile. They also cover the importance of being a strong borrower and how it can save you substantial money over your lifetime. Regardless of where you are in your credit journey, you will gain valuable information in t...

In this episode, Andy talks through several questions you need to begin answering as early as your 30s to ensure that you are prepared to retire when you want with the amount of money you will need to live the lifestyle you want. This episode is beneficial for everyone because it's never too early to begin preparing for retirement! For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You...

In this episode, Andy talks with several parents of current or recently-graduated college students about how they prepared their kids to handle money while away at college. They go through the important accounts to have, how to teach them a bit about budgeting, keeping their money safe, and how to find discounts. These parents share valuable pointers. If you have a child leaving home for college o...

In this episode, Andy talks about the essential financial habits that everyone needs. Whether you are just starting out on your financial journey or have been on it awhile, you will benefit from the tips Andy shares!  For more information, please visit us at Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter Money Life on YouTube . Reference to, or information about, a...

In this episode, Andy talks with Chelsea Coleman, a Mortgage Loan Originator at FORUM, about what first-time homebuyers should expect - everything from down payments to credit scores to PMI. If you are thinking of buying your first home, you will want to check out this episode! For more information, please visit us at Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with captions here: Smarter...

In this episode, Andy talks through the situations where people could use a financial advisor or coach. Spoiler Alert: most people would benefit from an advisor or coach during their lifetime! Check out this episode and see how a financial advisor or coach could help you reach your financial goals. For more information, please visit us at Smarter Money Life . You can also view this episode with ca...

In this episode, Andy talks with Tammy Marrs, Senior Financial Advisor with FORUM's Private Client Group, about important investing tips when dealing with a turbulent market. This episode is helpful for everyone because Andy and Tammy share great advice whether you are just getting started or have a huge investment portfolio.   For more information, please visit us at  Smarter Money Life . You can...