Wellbeing and Your Wallet

Hosted by Affinity Federal Credit Union

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! Learn tips and tricks on how to navigate everyday money challenges and chart the course to financial wellbeing from our expert hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz.

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60 recent

June 9, 202629 min

What Does a Day at the Jersey Shore Really Cost in 2026?

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by their new WAYW hosts: Sarah Rose, Director of Loan Servicing and Home Equity, and Alexandra Eddy, Assistant Branch Manager. They discuss key findings from Affinity’s Day at the Shore report and share tips on planning a fun, budget-friendly summer for the whole family.Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: With inflation rising, my family can’t afford summer camp and a trip to the shore. We’re trying to decide what to pick, and how to make the rest of the summer fun for the kids. Do you have any suggestions on planning a great summer when money is tight?Finally, Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s high-yield checking accounts. Grow your savings, get monthly ATM refunds, and earn a 5.50% APY to make your money work for you.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

May 15, 202631 min

Building Stronger Communities and Stronger Futures: Lessons from the YMCA

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by David Carcieri, President of the Greater Somerset YMCA. They discuss how to build local community, enriching your life and the lives of those around you.Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I feel like I am constantly busy, but not really connected to anything outside of work and family. I want to get more involved in something, whether that is a hobby, fitness, or just getting out more, I just do not know where to start. What is a realistic first step?Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s financial wellbeing resources, including blogs, webinars, and fraud protection resources. If you’re working on your credit, check out our free consumer credit counseling services, offered in partnership with Navicore Solutions.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

April 29, 202633 min

Smart Savings Strategies That Don't Feel Restrictive

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss how to find the motivation to save. Key discussion topics include saving for exciting goals, practicing positive reframing, and balancing short-term expenses with long-term priorities.Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I always tell myself I am going to use the weekend to reset, get organized, and get ahead, especially when it comes to things like my finances, but it never really happens. I end up feeling just as behind on Monday. How do you actually make time to reset without it feeling like more work?Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Plus Checking Account. Earn up to 10% in cash back on debit card purchases, get refunds on ATM withdrawal fees, and manage your money with zero monthly maintenance fees.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

April 15, 202636 min

Treating Your Budget Like a Workout Plan

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Anthony Russomano, Founder of Mano Wellness, to talk about physical wellness habits and how they play into financial wellbeing. Key discussion topics include how to set and meet attainable goals, building community for accountability, and finding fun habits that enrich your life.Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I joined a run club to get active and meet people in my community. The problem is, I’m the slowest person there! Everyone is kind to me, but I’m feeling embarrassed and considering dropping out. How can I get over my insecurity and stick with it?Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Certified Wellbeing Coaches. Trained to provide members with the best possible support, they can help you work out your financial wellness goals. Schedule an appointment online to meet a coach in your area.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

April 1, 202643 min

The Power of Community: How Connection Shapes Wellbeing

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by John Carpenter, national practice partner at ERA Group and a member of Affinity’s Board of Directors, to talk about the role community plays in shaping our everyday lives. Key discussion topics include what community really means beyond geography, why showing up and getting involved matters, how local engagement supports personal wellbeing, and simple ways to build stronger connections where you live.Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I moved across state lines last year, and I’m still working on finding my community. I just don’t know where to start! How do I find my people and connect with the new place I live?Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Wellbeing Awards, which honor individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence in financial, community, and physical wellbeing.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

March 18, 202632 min

Splitting the Check: Part 4 - Planning for Retirement

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss how to align financial goals and plan for retirement with a partner. Topics include establishing regular financial check-ins, bridging different goals and communication styles, and setting yourselves up for success as a team.Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: As my New Year’s resolution, I significantly increased the monthly contribution to my retirement account. I feel like I’m finally getting ahead of my financial goals - but I’m miserable! I had to cut most forms of entertainment out of my life. I’m not traveling to see family or getting drinks with friends. How do I turn this resolution into something more sustainable? I’m willing to sacrifice to safeguard my future, but I don’t want to totally ruin my life in the meantimeGrant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Certified Wellbeing Coaches. Trained to provide members with the best possible support, they can help you get your financial plans back on track. Schedule an appointment online to meet a coach in your area.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

March 4, 202633 min

Dealing with Burnout for Kids and Adults

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss how to identify and address burnout. Key topics include stress management strategies for individuals and families, communicating about personal challenges, and building healthy habits to recover from burnout.Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My son just started middle school, and it has been a stressful experience. He’s having trouble adjusting to the schedule, making friends, and keeping up with homework. How do I encourage him while also helping him build healthy habits, like a positive work ethic? I want to make things easier for him, but I also recognize that tough transitions are a learning opportunity.Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s Cash Back Plus Checking Account. Earn up to 10% in cash back on debit card purchases, get refunds on ATM withdrawal fees, and manage your money with zero monthly maintenance fees.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

February 18, 202637 min

Holiday Hangover: Bouncing Back

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz discuss the financial strain that the holidays can bring, and how to bounce back in the first few months of the year. Key topics include assessing spending habits, conducting a budget reset, and getting back on track after overspending.Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: My partner and I have multiple weddings and family events over the next few months that are quickly adding up. Should we consider skipping, dividing up who attends, using BNPL options, trying to use points for airfare, etc? I feel like outside of using credit cards, we can’t afford to book all the necessary travel ahead of time. Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s many wellbeing resources, including public seminars, free credit counseling with Navicore Solutions, and a blog packed with helpful tips on saving, budgeting, and more.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

February 5, 202646 min

Building a Career You Love In the New Year

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by Tammy Latif, Human Resources Generalist at Affinity. They discuss how to build a career plan, develop key skills, and find fulfillment in your professional life.Following the main discussion, the team addresses a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: Last year, I moved to a new state, and I started a new job after ten years at my last one. How do I show my skills, get to know my coworkers, and maintain life balance all at the same time? It’s been so long since I’ve made a transition like this, and I feel rusty.Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s High-Yield Checking Accounts. Grow your savings, get monthly ATM refunds, and earn a 5.50% APY to make your money work for you.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.

January 21, 202641 min

Ask Us Anything! (Part Two)

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz answer your burning questions about Affinity. They discuss the credit union difference and share tips to improve member financial wellbeing.Following the main discussion, the team addresses a final question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: Since switching over from a bank to Affinity, I have finally gotten control over my finances. By working with a Wellbeing Coach, I’ve learned the fundamentals of budgeting, and have even started saving for retirement. My brother is having some financial issues right now, and I think it could benefit him to join as a member. However, he doesn’t really understand credit unions. How do I address his misconception that Affinity will have less resources than a bank?Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s High-Yield Checking account. With a 5.50% APY up to $15,000, monthly ATM refunds, and no maintenance fees, this account is a great option to manage your money.Just a reminder if you have a question or comment for a future Member Mailbag segment, please email them to us @membermailbag@affinityfcu.com.Rate, like, and subscribe for more from the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast. Visit www.affinityfcu.com for additional information about financial wellbeing and Affinity products.Thanks for listening and be well.