In this episode, we sit down with David Ocasio Ross—a former teller turned Assistant VP at AmeriCU Credit Union—who shares how a denied car loan at 21 became the wake-up call that launched his career in finance. Now, he’s on a mission to help others level up their money game, understand credit, and navigate the homebuying process with confidence.

But David’s story goes far beyond banking. He’s also a devoted girls basketball coach with a deep love for the game, using the court to teach life lessons about accountability, confidence, and leadership. Whether he’s in the office or on the sideline, David shows up with heart, purpose, and a mindset built for growth.

💬 In this episode:

• How a personal money misstep turned into a career helping others with their finances
• The biggest credit myths—and what most people get wrong about homebuying
• Why credit unions might just be the best-kept secret in banking
• How coaching girls basketball keeps David grounded and inspired
• The motto he lives by: “Be you, they’ll adjust.”

--
Whether you’re a young professional trying to build credit, a parent raising athletes, or just someone who loves a good story of growth — this one’s for you 🏀💼💪

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Intro: Getting Into Banking
(1:45) - Moving Up & AmeriCU Advantage
(4:40) - Sitting Down with a Loan Officer
(5:30) - Common Misunderstandings
(6:45) - Local Advantage & Education
(10:00) - Impact of Credit Pull
(11:50) - Advice For Young Buyers
(15:05) - Credit Considerations
(16:10) - AmeriCU Region & Local Focus
(18:25) - Coaching Girl's Basketball
(21:10) - Catchphrase or Mantra to Live By
(23:10) - Mamba Mentality in Life
(26:00) - Belief in Yourself
(26:55) - Relocating to CNY
(28:10) - What Makes This Area Different
(29:30) - Be You, They'll Adjust
(32:10) - Loyalty & Building Trust
(34:15) - Becoming a Member
(35:35) - Real Estate Market Update
(39:35) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
David's Links
IG - https://www.instagram.com/davidantonio041
FB - https://www.facebook.com/david.ocasioross
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ocasio-ross-76037b10a
AmeriCU - https://www.facebook.com/AmeriCU

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com