MakingCents with Navy Federal

Hosted by Navy Federal Credit Union

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Latest episode

May 2026

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About the show

Welcome to MakingCents, a podcast brought to you by Navy Federal Credit Union. Your hosts, Emily Bigham and Brandi G., will be chatting with Navy Federal's experts on how to help you make sense of your money. As members of the military, veterans and their families, financial health can mean anything from transitioning to civilian life, re-thinking your budget during a time of economic uncertainty, discussing how to have “the money talk” with family, and so much more. Emily and Brandi are here to ask the right questions and make sure you’re getting the information you need to make the most of your money. Subscribe today and tune in each week. Tell us the financial questions you want answered, today. You can reach Emily, Brandi and the team at makingcents@navyfederal.org. From Emily, Brandi and the team, welcome to MakingCents—"Making Your Financial Health Our Mission."

Listen to episodes

39 recent

May 29, 202620 min

Smart Account Balancing Tips for Financial Confidence

Account balancing isn’t about perfection — it’s about clarity. In this episode of MakingCents, guest host Thomas Racca sits down with Sun Bayless, SVP of Membership and Deposit Products, to talk through smart, realistic ways you can manage money across your checking, savings and other accounts. Skip the stress and balance your accounts with confidence!Building a Savings Buffer (8:15)Best Practices for Saving (11:08)Balancing Short-term and Long-term Goals (15:18)Whether you’re juggling multiple accounts, building your savings, or just want more peace of mind, below are resources that can help you feel more in control.My MakingCents - Track spending, create a budget, monitor credit and view all accounts and investments (even those at other banks)—for freeSaving Resources – Helpful tips to make your savings experience easier Message and data rates may apply. Visit navyfederal.org for more information.

May 4, 2026Episode 424 min

Financial Frontlines: Supporting Active Duty Through Every Stage of Service

On this episode of MakingCents, guest host Clay Stackhouse, Regional Outreach Manager, talks with Brian Parker, Vice President of Member Experience Innovation, about the real financial challenges military members and their families face throughout their service.Drawing on their military backgrounds, they unpack common misconceptions about military pay and benefits, share practical money moves for deployments and PCS transitions, and offer guidance for planning ahead from budgeting and emergency savings to preparing for life after service. Listen in for insights on:Misconceptions About Military Finances (3:20)Building a Financial Foundation for Servicemembers (10:07)Preparing for PCS Moves and Deployments (16:15)First Steps and Available Resources (19:59)Discover additional Navy Federal tools and resources to support members through every stage of the military journey.Preparing for a PCS – Get tools and financial resources to help you manage military transitionsPCS Checklist for Military Moves – Use our step-by-step guide to stay organized before, during and after a moveMilitary Life Financial Resources – Get support for deployments, family life, benefits and big transitionsTransitioning From Military to Civilian Life – Find financial planning tips and tools for life after service

March 13, 2026Episode 325 min

The Hidden Costs of Sports Betting: Money, Mindsets & Smarter Wealth Moves

In this episode of MakingCents, host Emily Bigham sits down with Thomas Racca, Personal Finance Manager at Navy Federal Credit Union, to unpack the growing impact of sports betting and how it can quietly affect financial well‑being.With sports betting more accessible than ever, Emily and Thomas break down how betting works, why it’s so easy to get pulled in, and the common red flags that signal when entertainment may be turning into financial risk. Thomas shares how small, seemingly harmless bets can add up over time—and why even knowledgeable, disciplined people can be vulnerable.Listeners will gain insight into the psychology behind betting, including loss chasing and “almost wins,” along with practical ways to set boundaries, recognize warning signs early, and explore safer alternatives for building income and long‑term financial stability. The episode also highlights how Navy Federal supports members through financial counseling, tools, and resources—ensuring no one has to navigate these challenges alone.Understanding Spots Betting: Risks and Realities (4:22)The Psychology Behind Betting: Chasing Losses (8:10)The Impact of Technology on Sports Betting (12:15)Alternatives to Sports Betting: Building Financial Health (16:39)Finding Balance: Moderation in Sports Betting (21:05) Looking to stay informed and protect your money? Here are resources to learn how awareness, planning, and trusted guidance can help you stay in control:Free Personal Financial CounselingTotal Money Management in One PlaceSaving & Budgeting Tips

February 9, 2026Episode 228 min

Romance Scams: Protecting your Heart and your Wallet

In this episode of MakingCents, host Emily Bigham talks with Carrie Foran Sepulveda, Vice President of Fraud and Physical Security Strategy at Navy Federal, about romance scams — an increasingly common form of fraud, especially in the digital age when many people are seeking connection online.Together, they explain how romance scams work, the common red flags to watch for, and why these schemes can be so emotionally and financially damaging. Carrie shares insights from working directly with members, emphasizing how trust and emotional connection are often exploited, and why anyone can be vulnerable.Listeners will also learn practical steps to protect themselves, what to do if something feels off, and how Navy Federal supports members through fraud prevention and recovery, ensuring no one has to navigate these situations alone. Want to take the next step toward protecting your money? Real Romance Scam Stories (00:58)Recognizing Red Flags (11:29)Practical Steps to Protect Yourself (20:43)Check out these resources designed to help you stay informed and secure.What’s a Financial Scam and How Do You Report One? 24/7 Navy Federal SupportCommon Scams Targeting Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans and Their FamiliesAvoid Phone Scams and Vishing (Voice Phishing)

January 23, 2026Episode 139 min

From Pinch to Progress: Your Financial Reset for 2026

In this episode of MakingCents, guest host Thomas Racca, Manager of Personal Finance Management at Navy Federal, sits down with Heather Long, Chief Economist at Navy Federal, to break down the financial landscape heading into 2026. Together, they outline why households feel squeezed, what’s changed in the economy, and the practical steps you can take to reset your budget, tackle debt, and rebuild savings using tools like our Emergency Fund Calculator and Mission: Credit Confidence® dashboard.Thomas and Heather also open up about the personal experiences that shaped how they think about money today. From early missteps to hard‑earned lessons, they reflect on how those moments influence the guidance they give members—and why the supportive, member‑focused approach of a credit union can make navigating finances feel more grounded and attainable.Budgeting for Financial Wellness (16:26)Strategies for Financial Resilience (24:48) Navigating Homeownership Challenges (33:26)Ready to start the year strong? Explore resources designed to help you take control of your financial goals.· Free Personal Financial Counseling· My MakingCents· Monthly Spending Calculator

November 14, 2025Episode 915 min

Beyond the Uniform: Financial and Civilian Transition Resources for Life After Service

In this episode of MakingCents, guest host Clay Stackhouse, Marine veteran and Regional Outreach Manager at Navy Federal, joins Jesse Border, Army veteran and AVP of Branch Operations, and Tracy Owens, Navy veteran and Senior Programs Manager at Support The Enlisted Project (STEP). Together, they share practical strategies and resources to help veterans and their families thrive. You’ll hear insights on financial planning for servicemembers making the transition, how Navy Federal provides personalized banking and planning tools, and STEP’s mission to promote financial self-sufficiency and holistic support for military families. Plus, Clay, Jesse, and Tracy open up about their own experiences, offering real-world perspective and advice.· From Combat Boots to Corporate Life (00:03)· Meet the Heroes Behind the Mic (3:06)· Your Transition Toolkit (8:37)· Impact Beyond Service (12:49) Ready for your next chapter? Check out our expert resources designed to support transitioning servicemembers.· Transitioning From Military to Civilian Life· Financial Checklist for Military Transition: Planning for Veterans and Retirees· How to Start a Business as a Veteran

October 29, 2025Episode 822 min

Cybersecurity Essentials: Stay Ahead of the Scams this Holiday Season

Cybersecurity might seem complex, but with a few simple steps, you can protect what matters most. In observance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month and just ahead of the holiday shopping season—we explore how planning ahead and being proactive can help protect your financial future and personal identity. From password hygiene to recognizing scams, our experts at Navy Federal Credit Union share practical tips to help you safeguard your personal and financial data with confidence. This episode, we’re chatting up with Carrie Foran Sepulveda as she shares her personal experiences with fraud and scams while offering relatable insights and actionable advice to help you stay protected.Understanding Fraud and Cybersecurity (00:18)Identifying and Responding to Fraud (10:03)The Evolving Landscape of Cyber Threats (15:23)Proactive Measures for Holiday Spending (20:41)Check out our cybersecurity and fraud resources which give members a one-stop spot to protect their identity, manage risk, and keep their finances secure. Privacy and Security ResourcesFraud ResourcesAll Things Cybersecurity

September 17, 2025Episode 741 min

Financial Planning Made Simple

Financial planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right guidance, it’s more manageable than you think. In this episode, we’re diving into the how and why of planning ahead can empower you to stay aligned with your financial goals. From smart investing to effective debt management, discover how our expert financial planners can help you stay focused, confident, and on track.Understanding Financial Goals: Short-term vs Long-term (3:08)Navigating Major Life Milestones (9:02)Inheritance and Estate Planning (18:08)The Role of Financial Advisors (26:49)Explore how these Navy Federal Investment Services* can help you stay the course of your money goals. Navy Federal Investment ServicesDigital Investor Find an Advisor NFIS Disclosures *Investments are only sold through Navy Federal Investment Services. Investment products are not insured, not obligations of NFCU, and may lose value.

August 13, 2025Episode 621 min

Beyond the Branch: Smarter Money Management in a Connected World

Managing your finances today is easier, more intuitive, and more personalized than ever. In this episode, we explore how our digital services can help you stay on track with your financial goals. From intuitive mobile banking to advanced budgeting tools, discover how we’ve modernized the way you can manage your money.Generational Engagement (3:30)New Enhancements in Member Experience (6:10)Resources for New Members (13:20) Security Innovations (16:14)Explore the new features in our all-in-one financial hub that can help our members budget, build their credit profiles (1*), and reach financial goals. (2*)Digital Banking Tutorials (2*)Checking Account ResourcesHow to Enroll in Digital Banking (2*)Digital Security Tips1. Recurring Payment Reporting Tool Disclosure *2. Message and data rates may apply. Visit navyfederal.org for more information.*

July 14, 2025Episode 526 min

Shifting Gears: The Road to a New Car

In this episode, we break down one of the most common financial decisions many families face—buying a car. Two experts in the consumer lending space at Navy Federal, Joe Pendergast and Kevin Wince, share their insights into the car buying process.Leasing versus Buying (0:45)Navigating the Car Buying Process (5:16)Auto Financing for the Military Community (11:04)Right Time to Shop (21:21)With modern tools and the right strategy to back you up, you can get behind the wheel of your own car without much trouble.Leasing vs. Buying a Car – Pros and ConsCar Buying: How a Preapproval Can Put You in the Fast LaneThe Servicemember’s Guide to Car BuyingWhen Is the Best Time to Buy a Car?Test Drive Your Finance OptionsWhen you’re ready to apply for financing, Navy Federal Credit Union is here for you. Learn how to apply and search for cars domestically and internationally.Disclosures:Credit and collateral subject to approval.Active Duty and Retired Military Member discountSenior Enlisted Program discountCARFAX Vehicle History Reports™Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP)

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