Dollars & Sense

Hosted by HAPO Community Credit Union

Business Investing

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

This isn’t your average money podcast. Dollars and Sense breaks down personal finance without the fluff. You’ll get honest talk, real stories, and practical advice to help you get ahead while still enjoying the things that make life fun. Powered by HAPO Community Credit Union.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 3, 2026Episode 6437 min

What Working at a Credit Union Taught Us About Financial Mistakes

Watch the full-length episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.PodcastFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/Most people don’t realize how many small financial habits quietly impact their future.In this episode of the Dollars & Sense Podcast, the team sits down to talk about the biggest financial mistakes they’ve seen while working at a credit union—from credit card misconceptions and spending habits to late payments, savings, budgeting, and the financial advice people get completely wrong.They also break down the habits financially stable people tend to have in common, the mindset shifts that can improve your finances long term, and the lessons they wish more people understood earlier in life.Whether you’re trying to build credit, save more money, avoid common financial traps, or simply become more intentional with your finances, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world observations.

April 22, 2026Episode 6337 min

How Scams Are Evolving In The Age Of AI

Watch the full-length episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.PodcastFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/Scams are changing and most people don’t realize how fast.In this episode, we sit down with fraud analyst Jen to break down how AI is reshaping the way scams work, why they’re becoming more convincing, and what that means for everyday people.From phishing texts that look completely real to voice cloning and AI-generated relationships, the tactics are evolving. In many cases, they are not easier to spot. They are just easier to believe.But here’s the good news. The fundamentals of protecting yourself have not changed.We walk through:How AI is making scams more believableThe most common scams people are falling for right nowWhy red flags are not always as obvious as they used to beHow scammers use urgency, trust, and emotion to their advantageSimple habits that can protect you and your familyThis is not about fear. It is about awareness.Because the more you understand how these scams work, the easier they are to avoid.

April 15, 2026Episode 6240 min

The Biggest Financial Mistake People In Their 20s Make

Watch the full-length episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.PodcastFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/Most people think they’ll figure out investing later.The problem is, later gets expensive.In this episode, we sit down with Cameron Ridgeway from Petersen Hastings to break down the biggest financial mistake people make in their 20s and why waiting to start investing can cost you more than you realize.We talk about why time is your biggest advantage, how compounding actually works in real life, and what happens when you delay even a few years. From Roth IRAs to 401k contributions and employer match, this episode simplifies what you should be doing right now to set yourself up for the future.We also get into the psychology behind why people wait, how lifestyle choices impact long-term wealth, and how to build a simple plan that works for your real life.If you’ve ever thought “I’ll start later,” this is the episode you need to hear.

April 8, 2026Episode 6138 min

The Truth About Fixing Your Credit (No One Wants to Say This)

Watch the full-length episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.PodcastFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/ https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/There’s a lot of advice online about how to “fix” your credit.Quick wins. Loopholes. Disputes that magically erase everything. The reality is this isn’t how it works.In this episode, we sit down with a credit dispute specialist who works directly with credit reports every day to break down what’s actually happening behind the scenes and clear up some of the biggest misconceptions people have about their credit.We cover:Why your credit score doesn’t update right awayWhat happens when you file a disputeThe truth about credit repair companiesWhy paid-off accounts still show on your reportThe difference between late fees and being reported lateWhat actually moves your credit score in the right directionIf you’ve ever been confused by your credit or felt like you’re doing everything right but not seeing results, this episode will give you the clarity you need. Because fixing your credit isn’t about hacks.It’s about understanding how the system actually works.

March 18, 2026Episode 6041 min

We Asked a Tax Pro What People Get Wrong About Taxes

Watch the full-length episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.PodcastFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/ https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/Tax season can feel confusing, stressful, and overwhelming—especially if you’re filing for the first time. But it doesn’t have to be.In this episode of Dollars and Sense, we sit down with Ken from AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, a free tax preparation service that helps thousands of people file their taxes correctly every year.We talk through some of the most common things people misunderstand about filing taxes, what documents you actually need before you sit down to file, and how free tax help programs work. Ken also shares insights from years of helping people through tax season—what trips people up, how to prepare ahead of time, and how to make the process smoother.Whether you’re filing your taxes for the first time or just want to avoid common mistakes, this conversation will help you walk into tax season a little more prepared and a lot less stressed.In this episode we discuss:• Common misconceptions about filing taxes• What documents you should gather before filing• The difference between credits and deductions• What first-time filers should know• How free tax preparation services work• Tips to make tax season easierIf you’ve ever felt unsure about taxes, this episode is for you.Don’t forget to follow the show for more real stories and smart money talk.

March 4, 2026Episode 5936 min

We Bought a House at 19 — Here’s What Almost Stopped Us

Brenna's Socials: https://www.tiktok.com/@bren.nery?lang=en https://www.instagram.com/brenna.nery/?hl=enKekoa's IG: https://www.instagram.com/kekoa.nery/?hl=enListen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7dIYZRus5g9rjftdPkGVCL?si=41c4d1ded22442adListen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dollars-sense/id1788376326Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/ https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/Buying your first home is a milestone most people dream about, but very few understand the process behind it.In this episode, Brenna and Kekoa share what it actually took to buy their first home at 19 and 20 years old. It wasn’t smooth. It wasn’t simple. And it definitely wasn’t guaranteed. They put in eight offers before one was accepted. Interest rates jumped from 3% to 5.5% while they were shopping.Their projected payment increased by nearly $800 a month. At one point, they were ready to walk away.We talk about:What first-time buyers underestimateHow rate changes impact affordabilityThe reality of bidding warsWhy preparation matters more than timingWhat lenders and realtors are really looking forHow to know if you’re actually ready to buyWhether you’re 19, 29, or just starting to think about homeownership, this episode breaks down the real process from pre-approval to closing day and the mindset shift that makes it possible. If buying a home feels intimidating, you might be closer than you think.Brenna and Kekoa are also hosting a First-Time Homebuyer Workshop where you can ask questions, learn the process, and build a plan. Keep an eye on social for details. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to get your first set of house keys this episode is for you.

February 10, 2026Episode 5846 min

Investing Is Simple, But Your Emotions Decide the Outcome

Investing isn’t complicated.But emotions make it feel that way.Most people understand the basics—buy low, sell high, stay invested. Yet time and time again, investors make decisions that work against them. Not because they lack information, but because fear, panic, overconfidence, and the urge to “do something” take over when uncertainty shows up.In this episode, financial advisors Tyler Pearson and Nick Haberling break down the psychology behind investing decisions and explain why emotional reactions often matter more than market conditions. We explore how action bias, media noise, and short-term thinking quietly erode long-term results—and why passive investing still requires discipline and intention.This conversation isn’t about picking stocks or predicting the market. It’s about understanding how your emotions influence your decisions, especially during volatility, and why staying calm is often harder—and more valuable—than being right.Because in the end, investing is simple.But whether you succeed or struggle is determined by how well you manage your reactions when things don’t go as planned.If you’ve ever felt tempted to react to headlines, adjust your strategy in the moment, or second-guess a long-term plan, this episode will help you approach investing with a clearer, steadier mindset.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DollarsAndSense.PodcastFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hapoccu/ https://www.instagram.com/dollarsandsense.podcast/This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

January 22, 2026Episode 5754 min

Why the Same Income Feels Completely Different at Every Stage of Life (The Budget Experiment)

What happens when people at different life stages are given the same income and asked to build a budget?In this episode of Dollars & Sense, we run The Budget Experiment — giving each guest the exact same income, expenses, and framework, then watching how their priorities, values, and life stage shape the outcome.From young professionals to parents with kids, this conversation shows why budgeting isn’t about restriction — it’s about tradeoffs. You’ll hear what each person protected, what they struggled to cut, and why comparing budgets rarely tells the full story.🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: @DollarsAndSense.Podcast📲 Follow us on Instagram: @hapoccu | @dollarsandsense.podcast

December 31, 2025Episode 5633 min

5 Financial Habits That You Should Adopt in 2026

Most financial advice sounds good… but doesn’t stick.In this episode of Dollars & Sense, we break down five practical financial habits that actually matter in 2026 — not trendy hacks or unrealistic rules, but simple actions that help reduce stress, improve clarity, and build consistency over time.We talk about:Why checking in on your money once a month matters more than perfectionHow automation can quietly do the heavy lifting for youThe role interest and credit play in long-term financial healthWhy small habits are often more powerful than big financial goalsWhether you’re starting fresh in 2026 or just looking to feel more in control of your finances, these habits are designed to meet you where you’re at — and help you move forward with intention.👉 You don’t need to do everything at once. Start with one habit, build momentum, and adjust as you go.This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: @DollarsAndSense.Podcast📲 Follow us on Instagram: @hapoccu | @dollarsandsense.podcast

December 24, 2025Episode 5538 min

What 25 Years of Debt Counseling Reveal About How We Handle Money

In this episode of Dollars and Sense, Scott Cowan interviews Chris Dlugozima, a financial counselor and podcast host for GreenPath Financial Wellness, discussing the complexities of debt accumulation, the psychological barriers to seeking help, and the importance of financial literacy. They explore common signs of financial distress, the impact of life events on debt, and share success stories from debt management programs. The conversation emphasizes the need for open discussions about money struggles and encourages listeners to seek help when needed.TakeawaysDebt often accumulates over time rather than appearing suddenly.Many people feel shame about their financial situations, which prevents them from seeking help.Debt doesn't discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of income level.Signs of financial distress include unopened bills and reliance on minimum payments.Using new credit to pay off old debt can lead to a worse financial situation.Debt management programs can provide structure and support for those struggling with debt.Unexpected life events, such as medical emergencies, can lead to significant debt.It's common for people to delay seeking help until they reach a breaking point.Talking about financial struggles can be cathartic and lead to solutions.Community resources, like financial coaching, can provide valuable support. GreenPath Financial Wellness Podcast: https://www.greenpath.com/podcasts/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Financial Literacy and Guest Background03:15 Understanding Debt Accumulation and Its Causes05:20 Signs of Financial Distress and Debt Management08:42 The Cycle of Minimum Payments and New Debt10:33 Exploring Debt Management Programs13:24 Unexpected Life Events Leading to Debt16:03 Success Stories from Debt Management Programs20:50 Realizations and Seeking Help for Financial Issues24:28 The Psychological Barriers to Seeking Financial Help26:42 Real Stories of Financial Struggles and Recovery33:59 The Importance of Follow-Up and Community Support36:17 Final Thoughts on Seeking Help and Financial Wellness🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: @DollarsAndSense.Podcast📲 Follow us on Instagram: @hapoccu | @dollarsandsense.podcast