Scammers are getting smarter, and their tactics are becoming harder to spot. From suspicious text messages to AI-generated impersonations, protecting your personal information has never been more important. In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie sits down with John and Jake from First Source to talk about the latest fraud and cybersecurity threats. They share practical advice to help you recognize warning signs before it's too late.

The conversation covers everything from creating stronger passwords and protecting your phone to identifying common scams involving gift cards, fake checks, and fraudulent job offers. John and Jake also explore how artificial intelligence is changing the game for scammers. They share some eye-opening examples of how criminals are using technology and personal information to trick unsuspecting victims.

Whether you're protecting your own accounts or looking out for a loved one, this episode is packed with information worth knowing. The biggest takeaway? Slow down and trust your instincts. Taking a few extra moments to verify something suspicious could save you from a costly mistake.

We Cover:
• Common red flags to watch for in suspicious emails, text messages, and phone calls
• How stronger passwords and multifactor authentication can help protect your accounts
• Why gift card scams and fake checks continue to catch people off guard
• How AI-generated images and impersonation scams are creating new threats
• Simple ways to protect your social media accounts and report suspected fraud

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - / lovelivinglocal315

What actually makes a credit union different from a bank? In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie goes back to the basics with First Source President and CEO John Calabrese and Chief Human Resources Officer Martina Jory. They explore what it means to be a member owned financial cooperative and why that model still matters today. The conversation also looks back at First Source's beginnings with 11 local teachers in 1938.

The conversation then goes behind the scenes to explore the culture that drives First Source today. Martina and John share why an employee first approach is so important to the organization. They discuss promoting from within and recognizing longtime employees. They also explain how taking care of employees can ultimately create a better experience for members and the communities they serve.

From its roots in education to its focus on community impact, this episode offers a closer look at the ideas behind First Source. It's a conversation about building an organization where employees can grow and members have a voice. Most importantly, it's about how those values can extend far beyond the walls of a credit union.

You Will Learn:
• What makes a credit union different from a traditional bank
• How 11 local teachers started what would become First Source in 1938
• Why First Source puts an employee first culture at the center of its decisions
• How internal growth creates long term career opportunities for employees
• Why investing in employees can create a greater impact for members and the community

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - / lovelivinglocal315

For Coach Blaise Faggiano, football has always been about more than what happens on the field. In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie sits down with the Utica University head football coach to talk about developing young men who are prepared for life after college. From day one, his program puts faith, family, academics and football at the center of that mission.

Coach Faggiano also shares how deeply the Pioneers have become connected to the Utica community. Players are encouraged to volunteer and support local organizations throughout their time at the university. For some, that commitment continues long after graduation. He also talks about the pride that comes with representing Utica and the special relationship between the university and the Mohawk Valley.

The conversation wraps up with a look at First Source's upcoming Teacher Appreciation Game during Utica University's Homecoming. It's a fitting connection for a coach who began his career as a teacher and still sees coaching as another form of education. As Coach Faggiano puts it, the football field just happens to be his classroom.

We Cover:
• How Coach Faggiano uses football to prepare young men for life
• Why community service is built into the Utica football program
• What it means for players to wear “Utica" across their chest
• How players are inspiring the next generation throughout local schools
• Why teachers hold a special place in Coach Faggiano’s story

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu

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Utica Football Links:
Website - https://uticapioneers.com/sports/football
FB - https://www.facebook.com/UticaFootball
IG - https://www.instagram.com/uticafootball

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - / lovelivinglocal315

Your home may be more than the place you live. It can also be a financial resource when the right opportunity or unexpected expense comes along. In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie sits down with Nicole from First Source to break down the different ways homeowners can tap into their home's value.

From traditional home equity loans to lines of credit and home improvement loans, Nicole explains how each option works. They also discuss loan to value and the role an appraisal can play in the process. Whether you're remodeling the kitchen or preparing for an emergency, understanding your options can help you make a more informed decision.

The conversation also tackles a common misconception about home improvements. Spending more on your house does not always mean getting that same amount back when you sell. Sometimes an improvement is about increasing value. Other times, it's simply about making your home a better place to live.

We Cover:
• The difference between a home equity loan and a home equity line of credit
• How homeowners can use the equity they have already built
• When a home improvement loan might make more sense
• Why renovations do not always translate dollar for dollar into resale value
• What to consider before choosing a financing option

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - / lovelivinglocal315

Connected Community Schools started with a simple idea: make sure students have what they need to show up ready to learn. Today, that idea has grown to 53 connected schools across seven counties. In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie sits down with Melissa and Danielle from Connected Community Schools along with Deb from First Source to explore how the organization is helping students and families overcome challenges outside the classroom.

From providing basic necessities and family resources to promoting literacy and financial education, Connected Community Schools works to fill the gaps that can stand in the way of success. The conversation also explores the Connected Bookworms program and the Impact Center in Rome. Melissa shares how that center became an essential community resource just days after opening when a tornado devastated the city.

More than anything, this episode highlights what can happen when schools and community organizations work together. By connecting families with the right resources, the program helps students focus on learning while giving parents a welcoming place to find support.

We Cover:
• How Connected Community Schools grew from one school to 53 across seven counties
• Why challenges outside the classroom can have such a major impact on learning
• How Connected Bookworms is helping entire families build stronger literacy skills
• The incredible story of the Impact Center and its response to the Rome tornado
• How community partnerships are creating new opportunities for students and families

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu

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Connected Community Schools Links:
Website - https://connectedcommunityschools.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedCommunitySchools
IG - https://www.instagram.com/connected_community_schools

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - / lovelivinglocal315

Christmas in July might sound a little strange, but it could be the secret to enjoying a less stressful holiday season. In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie Ullman and Rachel Zielenski share practical ways to start planning now instead of scrambling later. From creating a holiday budget to finding smart ways to save, this conversation is full of simple ideas that can make a big difference by December.

The discussion goes beyond gift shopping. Katie and Rachel talk about meal planning, cutting unnecessary subscriptions, using rewards points, shopping local and taking advantage of seasonal sales throughout the year. They also explain how small changes today can help you avoid debt after the holidays and start the new year on stronger financial footing.

Whether you're shopping for the holidays, saving for a vacation, or working toward another big goal, these tips can help you make your money go further. A little planning today can lead to more peace of mind tomorrow, and leave you with more time to enjoy the moments that matter most.

We Cover:
• Why starting your holiday budget in July can reduce stress and save money
• Creative ways to cut everyday expenses and grow your holiday savings
• How rewards programs, seasonal sales, and meal planning can stretch your budget
• The benefits of automating savings and setting money aside throughout the year
• Why the best holiday gift might be entering the new year without holiday debt

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - / lovelivinglocal315

Starting adulthood can feel exciting, overwhelming and a little confusing all at once. Whether you're heading to college, starting your first job, joining the military, or figuring things out one step at a time, there's a lot to learn. In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie Ullman and Amanda Abbe break down the financial basics every young adult should know before stepping into the next chapter of life.

From building credit and choosing the right checking account to creating a budget and finding financial advice you can actually trust, this conversation is packed with practical tips that can make a big difference. Katie and Amanda also discuss the tools, rewards and resources available to help young adults build confidence with money while avoiding common mistakes along the way.

Whether you're just beginning your financial journey or you're a parent helping your child prepare for adulthood, this episode is full of simple advice that can create lasting habits. Adulting may not come with an instruction manual, but this conversation is a pretty good place to start.

We Cover:
• Why building a relationship with a trusted financial institution matters early on
• Simple ways to start building credit and develop healthy financial habits
• How budgeting and tracking your money can help you avoid common pitfalls
• Financial tools and resources that can make managing money easier for young adults
• Practical advice for parents and young adults navigating the transition into adulthood


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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Introduction
(1:30) - Finding a Credit Union You Can Trust
(3:00) - Focus on Financial Wellness
(4:15) - First Source Perks & Rewards
(7:15) - Building Credit in a Smart Way
(9:30) - Mobile App Features
(12:30) - Financial Journey

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - / lovelivinglocal315

In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie takes another step into the community by highlighting a partnership that is making a real difference for both children and shelter animals. Joined by Paige from the Anita's Stevens Swan Humane Society and Mariann from First Source, the conversation explores how the Paws & Pages program is helping young readers build confidence while giving animals a calmer environment as they wait to find their forever homes.

What started as an idea quickly grew into a program that benefits everyone involved. Children spend time reading to cats and dogs in a relaxed setting, which helps improve their reading skills while reducing stress for the animals. Along the way, meaningful connections are formed that have even led to adoptions. It's a simple concept with an incredible impact on both literacy and animal welfare.

Whether you're a parent looking for a fun summer activity, an animal lover, or someone who enjoys seeing creative ideas bring a community together, this episode is full of heartwarming stories and inspiring moments. It proves that sometimes the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference.

We Cover:
• How the Paws and Pages program helps children build reading confidence while comforting shelter animals
• Why reading aloud can reduce stress and help animals become more adoptable
• The inspiring story behind a program that has already led to countless success stories and adoptions
• How families can get involved and become part of the Paws and Pages community
• Why this unique partnership is creating lasting impacts for children, animals and the Mohawk Valley


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Show Markers:

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu

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Anita's Stevens Swan Links:
Website - https://www.anitas-sshs.org
Reading Program - https://www.anitas-sshs.org/services/paws-and-pages-reading-program
FB - https://www.facebook.com/sshs4pets
IG - https://www.instagram.com/anitas_sshs


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - / lovelivinglocal315