Wellbeing and Your Wallet

Hosted by Affinity Federal Credit Union

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Aug 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

August 19, 202653 min

Work Perks That Actually Boost Wellbeing

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Sarah Rose are joined by Julia Hand and Michael Cirillo from Affinity’s People & Culture team. They discuss their favorite perks for Affinity employees, plus how you can take full advantage of your own company’s benefits package. Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I just got my first full-time job, and I’m going off my parent’s health insurance. Help! What do I need to know about this transition, and how do I determine which package is right for me? I know everyone does it, but I’m nervous about the switch. Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s SmartStart Savings accounts. Enjoy no monthly account fees and earn up to 2.65% APY on your first $10,000. Whether you’re saving for a down payment, dream vacation, or rainy day, Affinity is here to help you earn more toward your financial goals. 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.

August 3, 202638 min

Summer Money Diaries: Real Costs, Real Choices

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Ali Eddy discussed tracking their personal expenses over the past week, including what surprised them and what they learned about budgeting. Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I’d like to set a budget, but I feel like my expenses are constantly changing. My electric bill has been all over the place; I’ll have lots of social plans to pay for one month, and then nothing the next. How do I stay consistent month to month? 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.

July 22, 202638 min

Looking Ahead at Affinity: Organizational Updates and a New Era of Wellbeing

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher, Shawn Lubitz, and Sarah Rose are joined by Affinity Federal Credit Union CEO Kevin Brauer. They discuss Affinity’s major achievements over the past 90 years before turning towards what is coming next. Topics include member wellbeing, tech and AI, and financial education. Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: I want to learn more about money management and financial wellbeing, but I’m not sure where to start. I’ve only recently been able to open a savings account and set long-term goals. Where would you suggest that I take the next step in my financial wellbeing journey? Grant concludes the discussion by highlighting Affinity’s full-service offerings and financial education resources, including a free blog, webinars, and seminars. Affinity also provides free credit counseling through Navicore Solutions , helping members keep their credit on track. 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.

June 30, 202652 min

Small Habits, Big Impact: Building Consistency for Everyday Wellbeing

Affinity Federal Credit Union presents the Wellbeing and Your Wallet podcast! In this episode, hosts Grant Gallagher and Shawn Lubitz are joined by new host Ali Eddy and guest Jeffrey Downs, Founder of MyStreaks. They discuss how to build and keep healthy habits by starting small, tracking effectively, and celebrating wins along the way. Following the main discussion, the team answers a question from the member mailbag. Grant pulls the following submission: As I get older, I’m trying to move my body daily. However, I can’t seem to find a fitness habit that sticks! I’ve tried pickleball, biking, and weightlifting, but I always need to force myself to go. How do I meet my movement goal without fighting myself? 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.

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 meantime Grant 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.