Where should you start when it comes to buying a new car? Besides knowing your make, model haggling strategy, and desired number of cupholders, we will be the party poopers that remind you, the best place to start is figuring out how you’re going to pay for it. When it comes to financing, there’s a big difference between asking the dealer and starting with your local credit union. All this and more on today’s episode.

South Sound Money Talks

The ultimate guide to car buying in a pandemic

COVID-19 has had a big impact on our lives, especially our personal and financial health. As we enter a new season of restrictions and lockdowns, the financial impacts are expected to linger for a while. There's no exception locally, so today, we wanted to take this episode to explore what resources are out there for Pierce County families and everyone who might be in need of some extra support right now. Join us as we chat with Dona Ponepinto, CEO of United Way of Pierce County, and Taylor Johnson, Branch Supervisor at TAPCO. 

Navigating COVID-19 with TAPCO and United Way

2020 has been full of frights. Let's look at the lighter side of scary and explore mysteries and ghostly tales in Pierce County's history. 

Ghostly tales of Pierce County's haunted history

Unexpected life events happen. Losing a job. Medical or dental emergencies. Car troubles. While saving money isn't always easy, it's the biggest safeguard when it comes to being financially prepared. TAPCO employee Shima Pulicicchio joins us to share her personal story about the unexpected and gives us tips for growing a savings account to support emergencies. 

A personal story about saving for an emergency

Imagine getting a jumpstart on your savings before you even turn 13. At TAPCO, we love seeing our members age 12 and under making it happen.  The best perk? Members of the Moola Kids Club earn prizes for every milestone (in addition to watching their interest and investments grow). Families also get perks such as $3 off Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium general admission and more. Bethany Neiman from TAPCO and her daughter Paige join us to share their experience and answer the biggest questions TAPCO gets when it comes to joining the Moola Kids Club.

Help children learn the value of savings - a testimonial from a Moola Kids Club member

When it comes to supporting local businesses, Tacoma and Pierce County have a growing number of options. But does buying local really matter? As a credit union, why do we care? We brought in Tom Pierson, the President & CEO of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, to explain the true impact on a community when you choose to "put your money where your heart is."

Why does "supporting local" really matter?

It's gray here in the South Sound this time of year and many of us start to dream about taking that next vacation. But when it comes to travel expenses, having enough set aside can be a big barrier for many. In fact, more than half of Americans don't take advantage of their paid vacation days. We brought in Jake Pugh from TAPCO to share his practical advice for starting a vacation fund. We also dive into cost-saving tips such as the smartest way to use your money abroad, the best place to find affordable flights and much more.

How to make travel a priority on any budget

Choosing the right credit card can be daunting. What should you consider when you're shopping around? When can a credit card help your credit and when does it hurt your credit? Kelly Watson of TAPCO joins us to answer some of the most common questions.

Your credit card matchmaker

Sites such as Trulia and Zillow make it easier than ever for homeowners and homebuyers to research the value of their home. How accurate are these sites and when should you use a professional instead? Dick Beeson of RE/MAX Northwest joins us to share everything you need to know.

Can you trust your "Zestimate®"?

If you have a lapse in your insurance policy, your financial institution could raise your monthly payment. Patty Jackson joins us to explain how it happens and what everyone should know before they secure a new loan.

Force-placed insurance: What everyone should know

Deciding how to pay the bills together can be a daunting conversation - especially if you and your partner have significantly different incomes or spending philosophies. Patty Swanson, a licensed marriage and family therapist, joins us to share helpful tips that every couple should discuss before paying bills together or saying “I do”.  

Conversations every couple should have about money

If you’re intimidated by buying a home, you’re not alone. From knowing how much you actually need to save up for a down payment to figuring out what you can afford, there’s a lot to consider (and there are a lot of rumors and misinformation out there).  Mortgage Loan Officer Josh Johnson joins us to share everything you should consider when you start the home buying process.

Confident mortgages

Co-ops. Member-owned. Shared branching. Not-for-profit. We see these buzzwords everywhere, but what do they really mean? And why does it even matter? Lynn Heider from the Northwest Credit Union Association joins us to explain the benefits of credit unions (and she gives us some cocktail party conversation starters, too).

What is a credit union, anyway?

We’re tackling confusing financial topics, answering your questions and helping you make smart financial decisions. This podcast is made possible by TAPCO Credit Union, Pierce County’s original member-owned credit union.