Ever wondered if carrying a balance really helps your credit score? Or why your bank sometimes texts you about suspicious transactions? Nic Peterson, VP of Payments at Affinity Plus, joins us to separate credit card fact from fiction!

We dive into the world of payments—from traditional cards to tap-to-pay technology—and discuss how to use credit cards safely and strategically. Nick shares insider knowledge about rewards programs, fraud prevention, and why your cards are more secure than you might think.

Plus, hear about an exciting merger bringing Affinity Plus services to Albert Lea, Minnesota, and get Nic's expert tips on protecting yourself from scams.

Whether you're new to credit or a payment pro, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of payments with confidence.

Topics Covered:

• Credit card myths debunked
• Rewards vs. non-rewards cards
• Fraud prevention and security tips
• Digital payment evolution
• How to spot legitimate alerts vs. scams

Learn more at affinityplus.org

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

Get ready to be inspired! Hosts Danielle and Amber sit down with Bill Fish, CEO of Special Olympics Minnesota, for an episode packed with exciting news, heartwarming stories, and a few polar plunge confessions.

What You'll Discover:

• Why the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota will be the second-largest sporting event in North America (behind only the World Cup!)
• How 3,000 Special Olympics athletes will compete across 8 days of incredible competition
• The amazing "26 Weeks of Giving" initiative supporting inclusion-focused organizations statewide
• Volunteer opportunities that don't require you to be a sports expert (seriously, you just need to show up!)
• Amber's detailed ranking of her 19 polar plunges and why #7 was the best
• Danielle's commitment to her very first plunge (with Amber as her elbow-throwing guide)

Bill shares his 35 years of Special Olympics experience, from memorable moments with Prince at the 1991 World Games to why CEO Dave Larson went from polar plunge skeptic to annual participant. Plus, learn about unified sports partnerships, power lifting sponsorships, and how Affinity Plus continues to champion inclusion across Minnesota.

Whether you're interested in volunteering, supporting local athletes, or just want to hear why jumping into freezing water is surprisingly rejuvenating, this episode celebrates the power of community, inclusion, and taking the plunge for a great cause.

Key Topics: • 2026 USA Games (June 20-26, 2026) • 26 Weeks of Giving grant applications (due September 30th) • Polar plunge tips and techniques • Volunteer opportunities year-round • Unified sports partnerships • Power lifting competition sponsorship

Connect with Special Olympics Minnesota: specialolympicsminnesota.org Learn more about Affinity Plus: affinityplus.org

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA

Get ready for some delicious financial wisdom! In this fun-filled episode of A + You, hosts Danielle and Amber team up with Affinity Plus Cambridge Branch Manager Kari Krummel to serve up essential money management tips with a tasty state fair twist.

While dreaming about fresh-cut french fries, Sweet Martha's cookies, and corn on the cob, our trio explores four crucial financial "tips on a stick":

🎪 Budgeting - Your ticket into financial success (and the fair!) 🎢 Managing Debt - Avoiding the financial equivalent of flying off the giant slide 💰 Building Savings - Setting up automatic savings accounts and learning about Affinity Plus's WIN Incentive Savings 🎡 Avoiding Financial FOMO - Resisting the urge to spend just because everyone else is

Kari brings her 23 years of credit union expertise to help listeners understand how to create a financial plan that works for their unique goals and values. Plus, you'll get insider tips on Affinity Plus services like financial coaching and member consultations.

Whether you're saving for next year's state fair adventure or planning for bigger financial goals, this episode will help you budget wisely and avoid getting in over your head. Fair warning: you might leave this episode craving some kettle corn!

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union - federally insured by the NCUA