
Backpacks and Budgets
From school supplies to extracurriculars, back-to-school season can add up fast. Learn tips to budget ahead, manage expenses, and start the school year prepared.
Episodes
98
Latest episode
Jul 2026
Language
EN
Join us on Money Talk as we share tips and tricks and talk to the experts about all things finance related. We're going to cover everything from credit and loans to cyber security, careers and so much more. Money Talk is brought to you by PFCU.

From school supplies to extracurriculars, back-to-school season can add up fast. Learn tips to budget ahead, manage expenses, and start the school year prepared.

In this episode, I'm joined by Bill Krieger, President of Veterans Archives and a veteran with 21 years of service in the Navy and Michigan National Guard. Bill reflects on his military career, the challenges and opportunities he encountered after leaving service, and the inspiration behind Veterans Archives. His story offers a powerful look at service, transition, and preserving the experiences of those who have served. Please note: This interview includes discussion of sensitive topics, including suicide, that may be difficult for some listeners. Please listen with care.

Before you sign up for the first credit card you see, it's important to know your options. Not all cards are created equal- some help you build credit, while others offer valuable rewards. In this episode, we break down different types of credit cards so you can choose the one that fits your needs best.

Summer fun doesn't have to come with a high price tag. In this episode, I share some simple and affordable ways to enjoy the summer, stay active and soak up every moment without breaking the bank.

Illness can affect more than your health, it can disrupt your financial stability, too. In this episode, we break down how to prepare ahead of the unexpected, from understanding insurance coverage to savings account options. We also explore federal benefits that can provide a safety net when you need it most, so you can focus on recovery, not financial stress.

Wire scams can be convincing, especially when scammers use fear, urgency and trust to get their hands on your money. In this episode, we break down the most common wire scam tactics, the red flags to watch for, and what to do if you're targeted.

In this episode I sit down with special guest, Paul Ryan. Paul is a retired US Navy Reserve Captain and he currently is Board Chair for the West Michigan Veterans Coalition. Not only will Paul share about his time in the Navy but he's also going to give great insight into the West Michigan Veterans Coalition.

Do you believe hackers only target executives? What about solely depending on the IT department at work for cybersecurity? Think hackers are only relying on high tech means to steal your information? Think again. I'm breaking down common digital security misconceptions and what you can do to stay safe online.

Credit plays a big role in our financial lives, but plenty of myths can lead us in the wrong direction. In this episode, we break down some of the most common misconceptions about credit. What's fact, what's fiction, and what do you really need to know?

From missing information to misunderstood questions, this episode highlights the errors that often delay or reduce financial aid. Tune in to learn how to complete your FAFSA with confidence.
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Valerie Hail

Mediaite

PodcastOne

Russ Mathews