One More Mission, A Lifetime of Honor

Budgeting and Leadership from a Good Samaritan

We talk a lot about taking command of our finances, but today’s guest knows a thing or two about command in the truest sense of the word. Retired Air Force Lieutenant General Jim Vechery joins us to share what decades of military leadership can teach us about budgeting, stewardship, faith, and staying steady when life gets uncertain. Jim served our country for more than 31 years, leading thousands of service members and commanding operations at McConnell Air Force Base and Travis Air Force Base before serving as Deputy Commander of U.S. Africa Command. In this conversation, Jim reflects on servant leadership, why the best leaders focus on people first, and how a clear plan can keep both a mission and a budget from turning into constant crisis. We also talk about Jim’s current work with Samaritan’s Purse, where he helps lead international disaster relief through the Airlift Response Center in Greensboro. From managing complex resources to giving with purpose, Jim brings a grounded, faith-filled perspective on what it means to use money, time, and influence well. Episode Highlights:  [02:32] Retired Air Force Lieutenant General Jim Vechery’s 31-year career included leading teams at McConnell Air Force Base and Travis Air Force Base before serving as Deputy Commander in U.S. Africa Command. [05:08] A budget is a tool for freedom and mission success because it creates a plan, sets priorities, and keeps every challenge from becoming a crisis. [08:36] Staying committed to a plan requires taking the long view, breathing through the crisis, and remembering that ups and downs are part of life. [11:15] Nonprofit leadership requires balancing urgent needs with long-term sustainability while still keeping the larger mission in view. [13:47] We learn about his current work with Samaritan’s Purse that centers on international disaster relief through the Airlift Response Center in Greensboro. [16:48] The rapid-fire round covers strong black coffee, the Bible as a leadership book, and the practical leadership lessons found in Lincoln on Leadership. [19:24] The wonder of flight still resonates, from sunsets at 40,000 feet to the science that allows massive aircraft to get airborne. [21:11] Stewardship is the one word chosen to describe a healthy philosophy of money and the responsibility to manage resources well. [24:17] We close with gratitude for service and a reminder that servant leadership can shape how people handle money, faith, and everyday decisions. Resources & Links:  * Acclaim Federal Credit Union [https://www.acclaimfcu.org/] * Lieutenant General JAMES C. VECHERY - Air Force [https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Biographies/Display/Article/108807/james-c-vechery/] * Jim Vechery - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-vechery-08425a33/] * Samaritans Purse [https://www.samaritanspurse.org/] * Lincoln on Leadership [https://www.amazon.com/Lincoln-Leadership-Executive-Strategies-Tough-ebook/dp/B002VPEL0W/]

Making Success Make Cents: The CPA Playbook

Money decisions are rarely just about the math. Usually, they’re about that sinking feeling you get when you realize you might be in over your head. For most of us, that moment doesn't come with a warning label. It just sneaks up quietly right as a life change or a new business venture starts getting more complicated than we expected. Kim Hall joins us today as a CPA and business owner who actually lived that transition herself. She walked away from a comfortable corporate accounting career to build her own firm from scratch, so she’s been in the trenches. Since then, she’s helped everyone from individuals with simple tax questions to entrepreneurs trying to figure out a full-scale business plan. Her goal isn't just to file a return and move on. She helps people build a strategy so they can make smart calls before a problem ever shows up. We’re diving into the real-world difference between just "doing your taxes" and actually planning for them, plus how to know when it’s finally time to stop DIY-ing and bring in a professional. Kim also shares some high-stakes advice on keeping your personal and business money separate, planning for the long haul, and spotting financial fraud before it has a chance to drain your bank account. Episode Highlights:  [06:02] Kim shares how her decision to start a CPA firm was driven by wanting more control over her schedule and being present for her kids. [07:27] We learn how new clients typically reach out for help and what those first conversations look like. [09:21] Kim walks through common setup considerations like entity structure, taxes, and registrations. [10:26] We break down the misconception that filing taxes online is the same as working with a CPA. [11:37] The conversation turns to how often business owners mix personal and business finances and why that creates problems. [12:14] We talk about helping clients properly set up accounts and systems to stay organized and audit-ready. [13:21] Kim emphasizes that being skilled at a trade is very different from understanding the financial side of a business. [14:03] She reflects on the early challenges of starting her firm, including the financial adjustment and building from zero. [15:06] Kim explains why many businesses aren’t profitable in the first year and what to expect financially. [16:02] A turning point comes from social media advertising, which helped her quickly grow her client base. [17:37] The conversation shifts into tax season and the importance of understanding preparation versus planning. [18:04] Kim clearly defines tax preparation as reporting the past and tax planning as making proactive decisions. [22:44] We dive into fraud trends, including email scams and fake payment instructions targeting businesses. [23:16] Real-world examples highlight how small details, like a changed domain name, can lead to major losses. [24:45] Kim shares why reaching out early before tax season can make a big difference. [25:35] We talk about the importance of budgeting for unexpected expenses in both personal and business finances. [26:02] Planning emerges again as the key habit that separates successful businesses from struggling ones. [27:04] Thoughts on building trusted relationships with financial institutions and advisors. Resources & Links:  * Acclaim Federal Credit Union [https://www.acclaimfcu.org/] * Tommy Riggins - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommyriggins/] * Kim Hall CPA [https://www.kimhallcpa.com/] * Kim Hall CPA - Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563339698001]

One More Mission, A Lifetime of Honor

Some people talk about making a difference, and some people actually do the work. Today's guest is firmly in the second category. Alison Huber is the Executive Director of Triad Honor Flight, a 100% volunteer-driven nonprofit that takes local veterans on a one-day trip to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials built in their honor. What started as a personal mission became something much bigger, and the stories that have come out of it are the kind that stay with you. Running a nonprofit is no small thing, and Alison does it while holding down a full-time career and, somehow, a personal life. In this conversation, she walks us through what it actually takes to get a 501c3 off the ground, the costs most people don't anticipate, and how she managed to launch an organization in March of 2020. Yes, that March of 2020. Her financial instincts are sharp, her resourcefulness is real, and the way she thinks about money, both for Triad Honor Flight and in her own life, is something anyone can take something from. We also get into the details that set Triad Honor Flight apart, and I do mean details. From the jackets to the stamps on the cards they send after every flight, Alison thinks about all of it. If you've ever wondered how to stretch a dollar further, how to build something meaningful from scratch, or how to stay organized when life is pulling you in every direction, this conversation is worth your time. Episode Highlights:  [1:40] Guest co-host Tommy Riggins introduces himself and shares the roles that fill his “spare time.” [2:36] Alison Huber is the Executive Director of Triad Honor Flight, a 100% volunteer-driven nonprofit. [3:41] The purpose of Triad Honor Flight comes into focus: honoring veterans through one-day trips to Washington, D.C. [4:47] The conversation shifts toward what listeners don’t see is the work behind each Honor Flight. [5:33] Planning is described as a year-round effort requiring volunteers, sponsors, guardians, and detailed coordination. [6:12] Staying organized becomes the theme, with calendar systems framed as essential survival tools. [7:08] Passion is highlighted as a major driver of productivity and follow-through. [8:44] Boundaries around business hours are shared as a strategy for sustainability and balance. [9:49] The discussion turns toward the early stages of launching a nonprofit. [10:43] Research, mentorship, and understanding the market are emphasized as foundational steps. [11:52] The necessity of forming a board, establishing bylaws, and securing legal structure is explained. [12:39] Misconceptions about nonprofit costs are addressed, beginning with insurance requirements. [13:46] Liability considerations and risk protection emerge as critical realities. [14:14] Early operational challenges reveal the unexpected need for database systems beyond spreadsheets. [15:23] Launching in March 2020 is recalled as both exciting and financially uncertain. [16:18] Creative fundraising pivots, including yard sign campaigns, helped build awareness. [17:11] Small-dollar contributions are described as powerful momentum builders. [18:42] Supporter engagement expands into time, talent, and financial contributions. [19:37] Matching volunteer roles to individual strengths is framed as a success factor. [20:58] Personal financial lessons begin to surface from years of nonprofit leadership. [21:17] Frugality is described as both a personal mindset and an organizational discipline. [22:31] Attention to detail is highlighted as a defining strength of Triad Honor Flight. [24:39] Emotional reflections center on veterans whose flights fulfilled lifelong dreams. [25:26] Pride and meaning are tied to seeing Honor Flight jackets worn long after the trips. [26:24] A lighthearted rapid-fire segment brings a noticeable shift in tone. [27:09] Preferences reveal a blend of planner and phone calendar for staying organized. [28:34] Feelings of “not deserving” Honor Flight participation are discussed. [29:36] Donation and application details are shared with listeners. [30:12] Veterans and guardians are encouraged to apply despite the waitlist. [31:27] The episode closes on gratitude and reflection. Resources & Links:  * Acclaim Federal Credit Union [https://www.acclaimfcu.org/] * Tommy Riggins - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommyriggins/] * Triad Honor Flight [https://www.triadhonorflight.org/] * Alison Huber - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-huber/]

CyberSense

This month is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so we have a guest who can help make sense of what all of this really means. Cyber threats have a way of sneaking into our everyday lives through emails, texts, or a call that sounds just convincing enough to make you hesitate. It’s easy to think cybersecurity is something for IT experts, but in truth, it’s something we all have to think about. Our guest today is Tommy Riggins, Managed Services Account Executive at Zirrus Technology Solutions. He spends his days helping organizations protect their systems and their people, but what stands out most is how clearly he talks about it. No jargon, no scare tactics, just solid, practical advice. Tommy shares what actually works: longer passwords, regular software updates, multi-factor authentication. None of it’s complicated, but together, it makes a big difference. We also talk about how artificial intelligence is changing the game, what kinds of scams are showing up most often, and what to do if you ever get caught off guard. Tommy’s take is steady and reassuring. He reminds us that cybersecurity is about awareness not fear. And once you start thinking about it that way, it becomes part of how you move through your day. Episode Highlights:  [00:40] October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Tommy Riggins joins the show to share his expertise. [01:28] Tommy talks about his background, community involvement, and why cybersecurity is personal to him. [02:34] Acclaim Federal Credit Union celebrates winning a financial education award for this very podcast. [03:17] Tommy explains why cybersecurity is critical for credit unions and how Cybersecurity Awareness Month began. [04:01] Discussion on how people have grown numb to spam and scams, and why awareness must stay top of mind. [05:20] Everyday habits that put people at risk and how simple clicks can lead to major security breaches. [06:08] The growing threat of phishing, fake texts, and social engineering targeting busy consumers. [07:24] How stolen data from breaches is sold on the dark web and used for new forms of attacks. [08:50] Tips on slowing down, questioning urgency, and thinking before clicking or sharing personal information. [09:30] Tommy shares three key actions members can take right now to protect accounts and devices. [10:15] Why longer passwords and password managers are essential for modern security. [11:00] Keeping software up to date and treating your data like you’d protect your home or car. [11:45] We trade creative password ideas using hymns and personal phrases. [12:19] The importance of skepticism and situational awareness in everyday digital life. [12:55] How Zirrus Technology Solutions helps credit unions make cybersecurity part of their culture. [13:43] Security awareness training as the first line of defense and why employees are often the weakest link. [15:12] Building trust and simplifying cybersecurity for non-technical audiences. [15:44] What to do if you think you’ve been a victim of a cyber scam. [17:20] A real-life example of someone who hesitated to report a scam and why speaking up matters. [18:21] How older generations can be more trusting—and more vulnerable—to online fraud. [19:50] Looking ahead: how AI and easy-to-use hacking tools are changing the cybersecurity landscape. [20:53] Why multi-factor authentication should be standard across all platforms. [23:14] Balancing concern with confidence: how tech professionals are working to stay ahead of threats. [24:50] Resources for Cybersecurity Awareness Month, including CISA and NCUA. [25:30] The importance of ongoing training and awareness for credit union staff and members. [26:47] Acclaim’s excitement about opening its new branch in Stoneville in January 2026. [27:36] Closing thoughts and reminder to visit acclaimfcu.org for resources and future episodes. Resources & Links:  * Acclaim Federal Credit Union [https://www.acclaimfcu.org/] * Tommy Riggins - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommyriggins/] * ZTS [https://www.ztsmsp.com/] * Zirrus [https://zirrus.com/]

Mortgages Made Simple

Buying a home is a milestone, but getting there often means facing a maze of mortgage terms, credit requirements, and unexpected costs. For someone starting out, it’s not just about coming up with a down payment, it’s about understanding the bigger picture of what lenders look for and what it really takes to qualify. Jennifer Kettlewell from myCUmortgage walks through that picture in plain terms. She explains why credit scores carry so much weight, how conventional and government-backed loans differ, and why things like escrow accounts and PMI end up surprising so many buyers. Her advice on building credit, starting small with both revolving and installment loans, and preparing for upfront costs feels especially relevant for younger buyers who want to avoid common missteps. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the practical side either. Debt-to-income ratios, the role of student loans, and even how buying a car too soon can derail a mortgage application all come up. Taken together, it’s a realistic guide that helps first-time buyers see the process clearly and understand how to prepare before they start shopping for a home. Episode Highlights:  [02:08] Jennifer explains the two main types of mortgages: conventional and government-backed. [04:06] Discussion on how credit scores impact mortgage eligibility and interest rates. [04:35] Jennifer shares tips for building credit as a young adult, including using credit cards responsibly. [06:05] Advice on using installment loans and trade lines to establish credit history. [06:59] Breakdown of down payment expectations for first-time homebuyers and program options. [09:08] Jennifer outlines additional upfront costs like closing costs, escrows, and prepaids. [10:56] Conversation about private mortgage insurance (PMI) and how credit scores affect the cost. [11:56] Debt-to-income ratios explained for different mortgage types, including conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA. [13:40] How student loans are factored into mortgage qualification. [14:35] Property taxes and homeowner’s insurance increases and their effect on monthly payments. [15:51] Budgeting for home maintenance and saving for future expenses. [18:08] Discussion on market conditions, interest rates, and first-time homebuyer confidence. [20:10] Common mistakes young buyers make, like financing expensive cars before buying a home. [21:05] Jennifer walks through the mortgage process for a first-time buyer, from application to pre-approval. [23:23] Jennifer shares her best financial advice about saving, limiting liabilities, and living simply. Resources & Links:  * Acclaim Federal Credit Union [https://www.acclaimfcu.org/] * Jennifer Kettlewell - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kettlewell-1748147/] * myCUmortgage [https://www.mycumortgage.com/]