In this special tribute episode, we celebrate the remarkable career of Veronica Dangerfield, Patelco's beloved Senior Financial Wellbeing Educator and 2025 Financial Educator of the Year. Joined by longtime colleagues and friends, we reflect on her decades of impact, her signature humor and compassion, and the countless lives she's transformed through financial education. As Veronica heads into a well‑earned retirement, we honor her legacy and the inspiration she leaves for future educators.
Kick off the new year with practical holiday budgeting tips and a fresh approach to financial wellness. In this episode, Andrew and Michelle break down rising costs, real‑life budgeting challenges, and simple ways to plan for holiday spending without relying on debt. Learn how to set SMART goals, create a realistic budget, and build healthier money habits for 2026. Start the year with clarity, confidence, and a clean financial slate.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Patelco's Certified Financial Specialists, Danielle Lowe Robinson and Jerry Morales, as they share practical tips to boost your financial wellness. From busting budgeting myths to building credit and planning for big goals, learn how personalized coaching can help you spend wisely, save strategically, and borrow responsibly. Whether you're tackling debt or dreaming of homeownership, this episode offers actionable advice to start your journey toward financial confidence today.
Choosing the right college can feel overwhelming. Academics, finances, and family expectations all play a role. In this episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we sit down with Erin Moreci, a Patelco leader and parent, to discuss her family's journey from UC dreams to community college success. Erin shares practical tips on campus tours, financial planning, and open communication, plus insights on breaking the stigma around community colleges. Tune in for advice that makes big decisions easier.
In this special ICU Day episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we sit down with credit union pioneer Scott Simpson, newly appointed President & CEO of America's Credit Unions. From grassroots advocacy to fintech trends, Scott shares insights on the evolving credit union landscape, the importance of preserving not-for-profit status, and how credit unions empower communities. Tune in for inspiration, education, and a celebration of cooperation for a prosperous world.
In this special episode celebrating International Credit Union Month, Patelco team members share powerful stories of financial education and community impact. From supporting refugee families to breaking down barriers around banking and credit, hear how compassion and cooperation are driving real change. Learn how credit unions like Patelco empower individuals with tools for financial wellness, inclusion, and hope—one conversation at a time.
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Hermie Smit & Arlin Ortiz-Jovel, leaders from CityTeam San Jose to explore how holistic community support—from mobile food pantries to financial wellness workshops—is helping Bay Area families move from surviving to thriving. Learn how Patelco's partnership with CityTeam is making a meaningful impact, and discover ways you can get involved. It's a powerful reminder that trust, empathy, and collaboration can transform lives.
Ready to travel without wrecking your wallet? In this lively episode, Andrew Farrell, Uslea Evangelista, and Veronica Dangerfield share personal travel stories, budgeting hacks, and clever ways to make your adventures affordable. From credit card points to off-season deals and packing tips, they cover it all—plus a few laughs along the way. Whether you're a seasoned jet-setter or dreaming of your first trip, this one's for you.
In this finale of our elder financial abuse mini-series, we sit down with Yolanda Carcamo, APS Supervisor for Alameda County. Yolanda shares how Adult Protective Services investigates financial exploitation, the impact of recent policy changes, and how early intervention can protect vulnerable seniors. Learn how mandated reporters, financial institutions, and everyday community members can work together to stop scams and support aging adults.
In this heartfelt episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we explore the powerful connection between mental health, aging, and financial safety. Guest Avonelle Hanley-Mills, SOLVE Coordinating Manager, Mental Health Association of SF, shares insights on reducing elder isolation, embracing aging, and preventing scams through community, conversation, and compassion. Learn how early engagement, visibility, and support can help our seniors age with dignity and wellness.
Fraudsters are evolving, but so is the fight against them! In this episode, we sit down with 16-year-old Dublin Highschool student, Aayush Gandhi, founder of Fraud Stop, to uncover the growing dangers of financial scams. From protecting seniors to educating teens, Aayush shares insights on preventing fraud and staying ahead of scammers. Plus, Patelco's collaboration and real-world fraud stories you won't believe!
In this special episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we kick off our mini-series for National Elder Abuse Awareness Month with fraud prevention expert Erwin Lemi. With over 20 years of experience, Erwin shares insights into how elder financial abuse has evolved, the most common scams targeting seniors today, and practical tips for prevention. Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones from fraud in a rapidly changing digital world.
In this insightful episode, guest Andrew Farrell returns to explore the psychology of spending. From his successful No Spend Month to understanding emotional triggers and marketing influence, Andrew shares practical strategies to build healthier financial habits. Learn how early money experiences shape behavior and discover tools like the 30-day rule and accountability notes to curb impulse spending. A must-listen for anyone seeking mindful money management.
In this episode of Small Talks for Big Change, we're joined by Mel Murguia from Patelco Credit Union to explore practical ways to reduce loan payments and increase monthly savings. Learn how Patelco's Switch to Save program, along with options like auto refinancing and HELOCs, can help you make the most of your financial resources—especially during times of economic uncertainty.
Join us for an inspiring episode of Small Talks for Big Change as we celebrate Credit Union Youth Month and National Financial Literacy Month. Hear from high school interns Lei'ani Donaldson and Yesley Romo Quezada about their transformative experiences at Patelco Credit Union through the Genesys Works program. Discover their insights on financial wellness, personal growth, and practical advice for young people navigating their financial futures.
Join us for an engaging episode of Small Talks for Big Change as we chat with Jannine Glista, CEO of Biz Kid$. Discover how Biz Kid$ is revolutionizing youth financial education through innovative classroom initiatives and hands-on experiences. Learn how early financial education is empowering young minds to become future kidpreneurs. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on nurturing financially savvy kids and making financial literacy a classroom adventure!
Join us for a special episode of Small Talks for Big Change as we celebrate Financial Literacy Month and National Credit Union Youth Month! We welcome Kelly Young, Patelco's Director of Retail Branches, to discuss the importance of student checking accounts and financial education for teens. Discover how youth can build strong financial foundations, make smart banking decisions, and navigate student checking accounts.
Get ready for a fun and enlightening episode as we welcome the fabulous Veronica Dangerfield, Patelco's Senior Financial Well-Being Educator and the newly crowned Educator of the Year! Veronica brings her wit and wisdom to the table as we dive into the rising costs of homeowners insurance and the importance of planning for financial health. With her infectious humor and insightful tips, this episode is sure to leave you both informed and entertained.
In this episode, host Michele welcomes Charles Brandt, product manager in Patelco's consumer lending department. Charles shares his extensive experience and insights on credit cards, discussing how to choose the right product and use credit responsibly to achieve financial goals. Tune in to learn about Patelco's credit card offerings and how they can help you on your financial journey.
Join us as we welcome back Andrew Farrell, Patelco's community engagement specialist and financial educator, to discuss the transformative concept of a No Spend Month. Discover how this challenge can help you maximize savings, improve financial wellness, and kickstart your journey towards financial freedom. Tune in to learn practical tips, personal experiences, and the motivation you need to take on this exciting financial challenge!