Better Money with Elements Financial

Episode 35 - Fraud Fundamentals: Pig Butchering with Prajakta Paradkar

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:02:00 -0400

The Better Money Podcast is back with a new miniseries! Join host Miranda Finley as she partners with the Elements Fraud Prevention Team to explore the latest fraud trends.

In this episode, AVP Fraud BSA Officer Prajakta Paradkar shares her expert insights on Pig Butchering, red flags to look out for, and how investors can stay one step ahead of fraudsters.

Listen to the full episode at elements.org/BetterMoney or your preferred podcast platform.

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Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what may be suitable for you, consult the appropriate qualified professional prior to making a decision.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 34 - Matters of the Heart with Haley Rudolph from the American Heart Association

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:35:00 -0400

Financial stress doesn’t just affect your wallet; it impacts your heart. In this episode, host Miranda Finley talks with Haley Rudolph, the American Heart Association's Executive Director-Central Indiana, about how money stress influences heart health and what we can do to protect both.

Hear real stories, practical tips, and how the American Heart Association is making a difference in Indiana.

Learn more at www.heart.org

Listen to the full episode at elements.org/BetterMoney or your preferred podcast platform.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 33 - Fraud Fundamentals: Smishing with Prajakta Paradkar

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:03:00 -0400

The Better Money Podcast is back with a new miniseries! Join host Miranda Finley as she partners with the Elements Fraud Prevention Team to explore the latest fraud trends.

In this episode, AVP Fraud BSA Officer Prajakta Paradkar shares her expert insights on smishing, red flags to look out for, and how texters can stay one step ahead of fraudsters.

Listen to the full episode at elements.org/BetterMoney or your preferred podcast platform.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 32 - Financial Emergencies: Your Options & Resources with Nick Burks

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:05:00 -0400

This episode of Better Money with Elements Financial, discusses the difficult but important topic of financial emergencies. From unexpected expenses to job loss and everything in between, emergencies can happen to anyone.

Miranda is joined by Nick Burks, Success Coach with the Johnson County Employer Resource Network, who works hands-on with individuals in crisis to help them regain financial footing.

Together, they explore:

Why money shame is so common and how to overcome it
Common missteps people make under pressure and how to avoid them
Smarter alternatives to high-interest loans or draining your retirement
Local and national resources that can offer immediate relief

This episode offers guidance and support if you or someone you know is struggling.

Find more episodes at elements.org/bettermoney
Reach out: bettermoney@elements.org
Don’t forget to rate and review!

The Johnson County Employer Resource Network was founded by the Johnson County Community Foundation and is operated by Aspire Economic Development + Chamber Alliance and provides Success Coaching to several Johnson County Indiana employers.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 31 - Fraud Fundamentals: Romance Fraud featuring Shawn Adams

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 00:05:00 -0400

The Better Money Podcast is back with a new miniseries! Join host Miranda Finley as she partners with the Elements Fraud Prevention Team to explore the latest fraud trends.

In this episode, Senior BSA and Fraud Analyst Shawn Adams shares his expert insights on romance fraud, red flags to look out for, and how online daters can stay one step ahead of fraudsters.

Listen to the full episode at elements.org/BetterMoney or your preferred podcast platform.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 30 - Making Informed Choices: The Value of a Senior Care Advisor Featuring Clay Claborn

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 00:05:00 -0500

Taking care of a senior family member can be an unknown territory for most. The help of a Senior Care Advisor can be an essential resource for families during a virtual decision-making process.

In this episode, Miranda is joined by Care Patrol Senior Care Advisor Clay Claborn to explore how advisors can aid the process. They discuss the role of a Senior Care Advisor, the personalized advice they provide, and much more.

To contact Clay, visit www.carepatrol.com or call him directly at 463-202-8453.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 29 - From Piggy Banks to Paychecks: Financial Strategies for Children

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 00:05:00 -0500

In this episode, Miranda is joined by four different parents who offer practical tips, real-life examples, and age-appropriate financial strategies to ensure children grow up with a strong financial foundation.

They cover Essential conversations to have with your kids about money, effective activities to help children understand spending from a young age, financial products to prepare them for the real world and much more.

Miranda is joined by:

Liz Wertz, Vice President, LPL Financial Advisor, Elements Wealth Management
Eliza Claborn, Relationship Manager at Elements Financial
Curtis Dodd, Relationship Manager at Elements Financial
Michelle Payne, VP Marketing & Communications at Elements Financial

Portions of this podcast episode were recorded virtually, away from the podcast studio. Please be aware that there may be some differences in audio quality.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 28 - Planning Ahead: Your Guide to Estate Planning Featuring Attorney Kent Emswiller

Wed, 22 May 2024 00:05:00 -0400

During this episode, Miranda is joined by Indiana Attorney Kent Emswiller of Emswiller, Williams, Noland & Clarke, LLC to answer common questions regarding Estate Planning. During their conversation they cover what an Estate Plan is, the benefits of starting the process early, what information and documents you need to get started, and much more.

To contact Kent directly to start the Estate Planning process, he can be reached at 317-257-8787. Their website is also accessible at www.ewnc-law.com.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

During this podcast, legal examples will be discussed. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. Please consult a licensed attorney regarding your own situation and prior to making any decisions.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 27 - Navigating Financial Hardships

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:05:00 -0500

According to a recent survey conducted by Gallup, 61% of Americans are facing moderate to severe financial hardships due to the recent price hikes. If you are also struggling to cope with the current situation, then you might be looking for some guidance and support.

Terri Mossbrucker joins the podcast to share her insights and discuss the topic with Miranda. She is a member of the Elements Financial Asset Recovery department and is well-equipped to help educate others on financial hardships.

Terri has almost 30 years of experience in helping individuals with budgeting and finding solutions for difficult financial situations.

Websites referenced in the episode:

Indiana Debt Relief: https://www.indianadebtrelief.org/

Indiana Hardest Hit Fund/Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network: https://www.877gethope.org/

Statistics sourced:

More in U.S. Say Inflation Is Causing Financial Hardship

Americans Remain Discouraged About Personal Finances

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 26 - Special Live Episode - Purpose Day with CICF CEO Jennifer Bartenbach

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:05:00 -0500

On October 9, 2023 Elements Financial conducted their seventh annual Purpose Day - a day dedicated to giving back and serving the communities and causes we care about.

As part of the day, Elements employees heard from Jennifer Bartenbach, the CEO of the Central Indiana Community Foundation. During this conversation with Miranda, the two discuss the importance of giving back and the different ways you can do so.

This episode was recorded live in front of an audience and may vary in sound.

To learn more about Purpose Day 2023, visit elements.org/PurposeDay. To learn about CICF, visit cicf.org.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 25 - The Impact of Inflation

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:05:00 -0400

Miranda is joined by Andrew Chalko, the Chief Financial Officer of Elements, to discuss the causes and effects of inflation. They will explore the sectors that are most affected by inflation and provide tips on budget restructuring to combat it.

They'll also dive into the root causes of inflation, which businesses continue to be impacted, and practical ways to restructure your budget to mitigate its effects.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 24 - The Power of Early Investing

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 00:05:00 -0400

Miranda is joined by Liz Wertz, LPL Financial Advisor at Elements Wealth Management. Liz shares the answers to the top five questions young professionals have when beginning to invest.

Their conversation covers why it’s important to start investing for retirement while you are young, how to use a 401k and employer matching to your advantage, and additional ways you can invest to supplement your current strategies.

To learn more about Liz and to contact her, visit her website at elements.org/LWertz.

To view the visual charts mentioned in this podcast, please contact us at bettermoney@elements.org.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may be suitable for you, consult the appropriate qualified professional prior to making a decision.

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). For hyperlinks to FINRA and SIPC, please refer to ‘See Contact Info’ section above. Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Elements Financial Federal Credit Union and Elements Wealth Management are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Elements Wealth Management, and may also be employees of Elements Financial Federal Credit Union These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Elements Financial Federal Credit Union or Elements Wealth Management. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

• Not Insured by NCUA or Any Other Government Agency
• Not Credit Union Guaranteed
• Not Credit Union Deposits or Obligations
• May Lose Value

Your Credit Union (”Financial Institution”) provides referrals to financial professionals of LPL Financial LLC (“LPL”) pursuant to an agreement that allows LPL to pay the Financial Institution for these referrals. This creates an incentive for the Financial Institutions to make these referrals, resulting in a conflict of interest. The Financial Institution is not a current client of LPL for brokerage or advisory services.

Please visit https://www.lpl.com/disclosures/is-lpl-relationship-disclosure.html for more detailed information.

Bonus Episode - Innovation in Higher Education: Butler Beyond

Wed, 17 May 2023 00:10:00 -0400

In this bonus episode, learn about Butler University's innovative approach to higher education accessibility from Dean Esteves, Executive Director of Butler University’s Office of Strategic Engagement, as they revolutionize traditional methods.

Learn more about Butler's Office of Strategic Engagement at: https://www.butler.edu/strategic-engagement/

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 23 - Money in Your Early 20s

Wed, 17 May 2023 00:05:00 -0400

College graduation season is here and many young adults are embarking on a new chapter in their lives. This can often bring about challenging life lessons, especially in regard to finances. In this episode, Miranda is joined by Eliza Claborn, Elements Relationship Manager, to provide guidance on navigating finances for those in their early twenties. Later in the show, Dean Esteves, Executive Director of Butler University’s Office of Strategic Engagement, shares valuable advice on managing money that he wishes he had known in his younger years.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 22 - Women and Money with Andrea Liebross

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 00:05:00 -0400

In celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, Miranda is joined by Life Coach Andrea Liebross to discuss the history of women and money and how Andrea helps build confidence and empower women to be unapologetically successful.

Andrea is a Certified Business and Life Coach, Podcast Host, and Certified You Need a Budget Coach who specializes in helping women holistically achieve peace and success in all aspects of their lives.

Andrea can be reached at https://andrealiebross.com/

Her podcast - "Time to Level Up with Andrea Liebross" is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Andrea's social media pages, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and more are also available from her website.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 20 - Finding Balance in the Name of Progress

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 00:15:00 -0400

In this bonus episode, we're joined by Tara Kamm, Managing Director of Finance for Republic Airways to take a closer look at the airline industry. We'll discuss the contributing factors of inflation in airline travel, what Republic is doing to create the next generation of aviation professionals, and much more.

Republic Airways was founded in 1974 and is based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Republic is one of the largest regional airlines in the U.S. with nearly 1,000 daily flights to 100 cities in 40 U.S. states, Canada, the Caribbean, and Central America. Republic offers fixed-fee flights operated under our major airline partner brands of American Eagle, Delta Connection, and United Express. To learn more, visit rjet.com.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 15 - Fuel & Flights: Navigating Travel Inflation

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 00:02:00 -0400

The cost and logistics of traveling can sometimes outweigh the destination. With increased gas prices and airline travel becoming unpredictable, what are the best ways to manage these while staying within our means?

Miranda is joined by fellow Elements employees Abbey Askew and Karmen Johnson to chat through some ways you can incorporate cost savings into both your everyday and leisure travel plans. Then, Republic Airways' Managing Director of Finance, Tara Kamm, joins the show to discuss the airline industry.

Listen to our bonus episode with Tara and Republic Airways for a more in-depth look at airline travel.

Reference to, or information about, any specific product or service by name, trade name, trademark, or service mark in this podcast does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 14 - Your Guide to Family Fun at Victory Field

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 00:05:00 -0400

Kids of all ages can find something that fits their budget when coming out to a game at Victory Field. Indianapolis Indians Director of Communication Cheyne Reiter joins the podcast to discuss affordable family fun for the current season. Learn more about the Knot Hole Kids Club, special character appearances, the Elements Financial Club, and more.

Interested in ticket discounts or have questions? Email bettermoney@elements.org to learn more.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 13 - Keeping up with the Joneses

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 00:05:00 -0400

Do you find yourself comparing your lifestyle to those you see on social media? In this episode we discuss the idiom ‘Keeping Up with the Joneses’ and how you can align yourself for financial goals with wants vs. needs.

Federally Insured by NCUA

Episode 12 - Understanding Underwriting

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 00:05:00 -0400