Student Loans: Navigating the Student Loan Collection Storm
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 limitsContact 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 messageSupport the showWelcome 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.
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Turn Dusty Treasures into Steady Income: The Art of Reselling Thrift Finds
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 curbsidesIf 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 messageSupport the showWelcome 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.
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39:01
Thrift Store Treasures: Stretching Your Dollar Further
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 landfillsHave an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text messageSupport the showWelcome 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.
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Identity Thieves Are Getting Smarter—Are You?
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 offersTo 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 messageSupport the showWelcome 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.
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The Entrepreneurial Journey: From Passion to Profit
Dreaming of turning your talent or passion into a profitable business? This episode of Money Matters takes you behind the scenes with three successful entrepreneurs who've done exactly that.SCORE mentor Bob Breaux reveals why so many new businesses fail—and it's not what you might expect. "If it doesn't work on paper, it's not going to work in real life," he explains, emphasizing the critical importance of business planning before risking everything. His practical breakdown of the "six M's" of marketing provides a roadmap any aspiring business owner can follow.Deidre Detelier shares how she built a 40-year Mary Kay business by prioritizing relationships over transactions. What began with a little suitcase of products evolved into a dedicated home-based storefront with loyal customers spanning decades. Her insights on adapting to technological changes while maintaining personal connections offer valuable lessons for any service-based business.Hair stylist and salon owner Cody brings a refreshing perspective on authentic entrepreneurship. "It's like 60% how you make them feel and 40% hair," he reveals, explaining how he transformed his creative skill into a thriving business despite naysayers. His candid discussion about navigating licensing requirements, overcoming self-doubt, and building a business during COVID demonstrates the resilience required for entrepreneurial success.Whether you're considering your first side hustle or ready to scale an existing business, this episode delivers actionable strategies from those who've weathered the entrepreneurial journey successfully. The consensus? Success requires passion, persistence, and people skills—plus the courage to ask for help when needed.Ready to transform your talent into profit? Subscribe now and join us for more financial insights that help you use the money you have, make the money you need, and save the money you want.Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text messageSupport the showWelcome 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.
The podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want. Host Kim Chapman, Financial Wellness Director for Neighbors Federal Credit Union, explores the issues that can affect your financial well-being and discusses ways for you to enjoy the financial freedom you've been looking for.
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