Joseph Long from Relief Heating and Air joins us to discuss how to maintain your AC system during scorching Louisiana summers while keeping energy bills manageable. We explore maintenance essentials, temperature management strategies, and how to determine when it's time to repair versus replace your aging AC unit.

• Annual AC maintenance checks are crucial for maximum efficiency and preventing costly breakdowns
• Air filters should be changed monthly or bi-monthly, with standard pleated filters sufficient for most homes
• Setting thermostats between 75-78 degrees significantly reduces energy consumption
• Smart thermostats offer convenient temperature control and scheduling options
• Warning signs your AC needs attention: unusual noises, constant running, or requiring frequent repairs
• AC systems typically last 10-15 years before replacement becomes more economical than repairs
• Refrigerant should never need recharging unless there's a leak that needs repair
• Keep blinds closed during hot days and minimize opening doors to maintain cool temperatures

For AC service or maintenance in the Louisiana area, contact Relief Heating and Air at 225-244-0520. They offer $95 maintenance services to keep your system running efficiently.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.

Our mortgage experts and real estate professional break down what financial readiness truly means for first-time homebuyers and why qualifying for a mortgage doesn't always mean you can afford homeownership.

• Understanding the difference between what you can qualify for versus what you can truly afford
• Warning signs that indicate you may not be ready to buy a home yet
• The importance of budgeting for more than just your mortgage payment
• How credit scores, income stability, and available assets impact your mortgage eligibility
• Common mistakes people make during the pre-approval and mortgage application process
• Different down payment options from 3% to 20%, and when "no money down" loans might be appropriate
• Why you still need cash reserves even with 100% financing options
• The reality of closing costs and what expenses to expect beyond just the down payment
• How to create a sustainable path to homeownership when you have good income but poor credit (or vice versa)
• Why being informed is the best way to avoid expensive mistakes in the homebuying journey

Check your credit score early, get pre-approved before shopping, save for more than just the down payment, and know your real budget by factoring in taxes, insurance and maintenance to avoid becoming house poor.

Visit our guests:
Denetria Burris, Realtor ® Notary Public
Licensed in Louisiana & Mississippi| LPT Realty LLC
Cell: 225-223-0499 | Office: 877-366-2213
Email: denetria@dbclosers.com

Matthew Cloy
Mortgage Loan Originator @ Neighbors FCU
Cell: 225-953-5076
Email: mcloy@neighborsfcu.org

Bridgette White
Vice President of Mortgage @ Neighbors FCU
Email: bwhite@neighborsfcu.org

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.

Travel experts Cindy Chambers and Tutti Bonacarso from Pearson's Travel share insider tips on planning dream vacations while maximizing value and avoiding common pitfalls.

• Benefits of using a travel agency include personalized service, passport verification, and having a local contact instead of navigating frustrating 1-800 numbers
• Popular 2025 destinations include Italy, London, Scotland, Croatia, and river cruises in Europe
• Book trips from two months to two years in advance—earlier booking allows for monthly payments and better availability
• Common travel mistakes include overplanning and not allowing enough relaxation time
• Travel myths debunked: solo travel can be safe for women, booking on Tuesdays isn't always cheapest
• Travel insurance is essential for international trips—covers medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip interruptions
• Budget travel tips: consider national parks, use public transportation, and book directly with hotels for special discounts
• Watch for travel scams like "too good to be true" deals and suspicious communications after online searches

To book your next adventure with Pearson's Travel, call 225-926-3752 Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 5:30, or stop by their office on Jefferson.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.

Money is a major stressor that affects our mental health, yet it remains a taboo topic many avoid discussing. Dr. Shannon Matthews joins us to explore the psychological impact of financial stress and how to develop a healthier relationship with money.

• Financial stress affects everyone - even those with adequate resources worry about future economic uncertainty
• Anxiety and depression are common responses to financial stress, often manifesting in physical symptoms like disrupted sleep and poor eating habits
• "Retail therapy" does release feel-good endorphins but serves as a temporary fix to deeper issues
• Planning purchases rather than emotional spending helps maintain financial control while still enjoying occasional treats
• Childhood experiences shape our adult relationship with money through learned behaviors and attitudes
• Creating shopping lists before entering stores helps prevent impulse purchases driven by emotional needs
• News consumption can trigger financial anxiety - limit exposure to maintain perspective
• Seeking help for financial stress should be normalized just like getting treatment for physical health issues
• Surrounding yourself with financially healthy individuals helps develop better money habits
• Maintaining dignity in financial conversations by keeping the person in the "driver's seat" of their finances

If you're experiencing financial stress, don't suffer in silence. Talk to a financial counselor, mental health professional, or trusted advisor before things snowball out of control. Visit neighborsfcu.org/financial-wellness for more tools to help you build a strong financial future.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.

Student loan borrowers face significant changes as collection practices resume and the Department of Education faces potential dismantling by December 2026. Deborah Paul from the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance explains what borrowers need to know about these changes and how to navigate them effectively.

• Student loans are considered in default after 270 days without payment
• Only 38% of student loans are currently being paid as agreed
• Default consequences include wage garnishment (up to 15%), tax refund seizure, and credit damage
• Collection activities resume May 5th with at least 30 days notice before garnishment begins
• Borrowers can rehabilitate defaulted loans with 9 consecutive monthly payments
• Income-driven repayment plans calculate payments based on what borrowers can afford
• Deferment options exist for those returning to school, serving in military, or facing economic hardship
• Forbearance provides temporary relief for short-term financial difficulties
• The Department of Education dismantling would transfer functions to Treasury, HHS, and Justice departments
• Check your loan status at studentaid.gov by accessing the National Student Loan Data System
• Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to earn college credits, potentially graduating with associate degrees
• Future changes may include eliminating PLUS loans, increasing Pell Grant requirements, and decreasing loan limits

Contact Federal Student Aid at studentaid.gov to check your loan status and explore your options. Default can severely impact your financial future, so take action now before collection activities intensify.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.

Thrifting isn't just about stretching your budget – it's a legitimate way to generate extra income with minimal time investment. We explore how to turn other people's castoffs into your cash flow with experts Betty and Johnny Manella from the Fellowship Center.

• Developing an eye for valuable items – look for quality materials, weight, and craftsmanship
• Starting with items already in your home – if you bought it once, someone else probably wants it
• Using Google Lens to quickly identify potential treasures and determine market values
• Finding niche markets like vintage clothing or specialty collectibles
• Creating effective eBay listings with detailed photos and descriptions
• Recognizing authentic designer items versus counterfeits
• Moving inventory quickly by setting competitive prices rather than holding out for maximum profit
• Success stories including a $2 teapot that sold for over $250
• Unexpected sources for resellable items – from grandparents' attics to neighborhood curbsides

If you're ready to make income from thrifting, start small and experiment. Begin with items around your house, research prices first, and use tools like Google Lens to help set the right price. You can definitely make income from doing it – drop us a line if this episode helps you get into the market!

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.

We explore the transformative world of thrifting with Betty Mahika Milano and Steve Isaacs from America's Thrift Store, uncovering how secondhand shopping can dramatically stretch your dollar while supporting sustainability efforts.

• Thrift stores source merchandise through donations and many contribute proceeds to community organizations
• America's Thrift Store puts approximately 10,000 new items on the floor weekly
• Popular thrift items include clothing, accessories, housewares, furniture, and even brand-new products
• Most thrift stores offer additional discounts for seniors, military personnel, and often run special promotions
• Pricing at thrift stores is typically 80-95% lower than retail, with many high-quality and designer items available
• Common misconceptions include that thrift stores only serve low-income customers or offer poor-quality merchandise
• Thrifting has evolved to attract diverse shoppers including budget-conscious families, sustainability-focused young people, and resellers
• For beginners, start with smaller thrift stores and focus on housewares before tackling clothing sections
• America's Thrift Store offers a 30-day return policy with receipt, challenging the assumption that thrift purchases are final
• Beyond saving money, thrifting supports environmental sustainability by keeping millions of pounds of goods out of landfills

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.

Carmen Million, President of the Better Business Bureau of South Louisiana, shares critical insights on protecting ourselves from financial predators targeting our money through sophisticated scams and identity theft tactics.

• Grandparent scams are resurging with AI voice cloning technology that makes scammers sound like real family members in distress
• The IRS will never call demanding immediate payment or gift cards - they always send official mail correspondence first
• Tax identity theft is increasing, with criminals filing fraudulent returns to steal refunds before legitimate taxpayers file
• When choosing tax preparation services, avoid those promising unusually large refunds or same-day payments through loans
• Vacation scams often feature too-good-to-be-true deals - always verify reservations directly with hotels and cruise lines
• Identity thieves can reconstruct documents torn into pieces, making professional cross-shredding essential
• The BBB hosts a free document shredding event on April 5th at the Baton Rouge Police Department from 9am-12pm
• Anything containing personal information should be properly disposed of, including bank statements, tax documents, and credit card offers

To stay protected, be skeptical of unexpected calls and emails, verify before making payments, choose trusted financial service providers, and stay updated on scams through resources like the BBB Scam Tracker.

Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text message

Support the show

Welcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.