Militarily Speaking

By: Armed Forces Bank
  • Summary

  • “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes military community who they are. We — with guests like you — will help the military community not only navigate their finances but also military life. We chat about both good and bad financial practices and provide some insight along the way. We’ll share strategies to help people get ahead, discuss military benefits that members should take advantage of, and more – all working towards the goal of helping people become more financially independent. On the show, we’ll also preview and talk about how to take advantage of military specific services, such as loans and mortgages, and help members prepare for important milestones such as PCS moves and the transition to civilian life. Finally, at the end of every episode, we have a bit of fun with our Military Minute. That guessing-game segment features military history, hobbies, a bit of pop culture. Correct guesses by listeners could result in a donation to charity of individual’s choice. Learn more Armed Forces Bank and Militarily Speaking at afbank.com Member FDIC
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Episodes
  • Ep. 64 Military Money Management: Insights from the National Foundation for Credit Counseling
    Oct 9 2024
    Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Bruce McClary, Senior Vice President of Media Relations and Membership at the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), a prestigious organization dedicated to helping individuals manage their finances, build credit, and achieve their financial goals. Together they discuss the complexities of financial well-being, and dive deep into the current state of financial stress for military families and veterans.“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are. Ep. 64 – Military Money Management: Insights from the National Foundation for Credit CounselingFounded in 1951, NFCC is a cornerstone in the world of financial counseling. Bruce McClary explained their mission - promoting financial education and well-being. With a network of nonprofit agencies across all U.S. states and territories, NFCC offers a broad spectrum of services including credit counseling, debt management programs, homebuyer education, and financial coaching for small business owners.Whether you are struggling with debt, looking to build credit, or simply seeking advice on managing your finances, the NFCC offers a range of services tailored to your needs. Bruce emphasized the importance of accessible financial services by mentioning that these services can be reached via NFCC.org.Financial Stress Forecast and Debt ScoreBruce delved into the NFCC’s Financial Stress Forecast and Debt Score, tools designed to gauge and predict consumer financial pressures. Over the past three years, the debt score has surged by 66.8%, indicating a sharp rise in financial stress. The current score sits on the cusp of Stage 6, "tightening the belt," implicating serious financial adjustments for many households.Bruce explained that consumers are increasingly relying on credit to manage their expenses, leading to a ‘brick wall scenario’ where debt becomes unmanageable. The Financial Stress Forecast helps predict such crises, enabling timely intervention and assistance.Financial Strain on Military FamiliesFinancial challenges significantly affect military families. The NFCC has observed through its partnerships and surveys, including a Harris Poll, that financial uncertainty and strain are rampant among service members.Military families often turn to non-traditional financial services like payday loans and cryptocurrency. Gig work is also common, with many military households supplementing income through side jobs. Financial discord is another prevalent issue, exacerbated by deployments and PCS moves which make it difficult for spouses to maintain consistent employment.Tackling Financial StressBruce offered sage advice: proactive steps in seeking financial counseling can mitigate the impacts of financial stress, especially in military households where debt issues can affect security clearances and career advancement.One of the standout features of the NFCC is its personalized approach to financial counseling. Bruce emphasized the importance of creating customized financial plans that address each individual's unique circumstances. The NFCC's experienced counselors work closely with clients to develop strategies that are practical and achievable, ensuring long-term financial stability.Educational Resources and ToolsIn addition to personal counseling, the NFCC provides a wealth of educational resources and tools. Their user-friendly website is designed to help consumers navigate complex financial issues. From budgeting guides to debt reduction strategies, the NFCC equips individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions.Bruce highlighted the user-friendly website NFCC.org, which provides tools, educational resources, and direct connections to certified counselors ready to assist.For more detailed information and to connect with a financial counselor, visit the National Foundation for Credit Counseling's website.Military MinuteJodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.● Last episode’s Military Minute: In what city was Wounded Warrior Project founded?● Answer: Roanoke● This week’s Military Minute question: What is the range from low to high of possible credit scores?● Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.● Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.● After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or...
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    55 mins
  • Ep. 63 Break the Silence: Tanya Oxendine’s Story of Survival and Healing with Wounded Warrior Project
    Sep 25 2024
    Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Tonya Oxendine, a spokesperson for the Wounded Warrior Project. Tanya shares her poignant story of joining the U.S. Army to escape a difficult childhood, enduring harassment during her nearly 30-year military career, and facing severe PTSD after her deployment in Afghanistan. She discusses the crucial support she received from the Wounded Warrior Project, which helped her reclaim her life. Tanya's perseverance and commitment now drive her to empower other veterans through physical fitness and mental health advocacy.“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are. Ep. 63 – Break the Silence: Tanya Oxendine’s Story of Survival and Healing with Wounded Warrior ProjectTonya Oxendine, who joined the United States Army shortly after high school to escape a traumatic past, shared the struggles and triumphs of her nearly 30-year military career. Amidst the challenges of harassment and emotional turmoil, she found solace and strength through the Wounded Warrior Project after facing the breaking point during her last deployment in Afghanistan in 2012.A Journey from DespairTonya's recount of nearly driving off a bridge due to the overwhelming pressures of PTSD, depression, and anxiety is poignant. It was her love for her sons, Nuke and Bam, that turned her car around and led her to seek help at Fort Belvoir’s mental health center. This vital step began her healing journey. Her involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project's Talk Program and Warrior Care Network significantly improved her mental health, providing essential support and restoring hope.Help for Veterans That HealsTonya’s involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project is multifaceted. Programs such as Carry Forward, a 5K walk/run event, and Project Odyssey, a mental health retreat, are just a few examples of how the organization supports veterans. These events and programs foster community, resilience, and physical and emotional well-being. Each program is meticulously tailored to the unique needs of veterans, ensuring no one feels left behind.Empowerment Through AdvocacyTonya's passion for helping other veterans is evident in her stories. Her role as a spokesperson has her traveling the world, sharing her journey, advocating for mental health, and breaking the stigma around seeking help. Wounded Warrior Project’s holistic approach to healing encompasses more than just physical recovery; it supports mental, emotional, and social well-being.The Origin of Wounded Warrior ProjectThe Wounded Warrior Project was born from a simple act of kindness by John Malia and his friends, who delivered the first set of backpacks filled with toiletries and clothes to wounded soldiers at Walter Reed Medical Center. This grassroots effort evolved into an organization that has now served nearly 270,000 veterans and their families, providing a broad range of support services.For anyone interested in supporting the Wounded Warrior Project, the organization’s website offers various ways to get involved. Whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in events, there are numerous opportunities to make a meaningful contribution. Additionally, veterans interested in sharing their stories and joining the advocacy efforts can find clear steps to get involved.Military MinuteJodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.● Last episode’s Military Minute: What was the original name for Philadelphia?● Answer: Shackamaxon● This week’s Military Minute question: In what city was Wounded Warrior Project founded?● Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.● Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.● After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months. Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two. Visit www.afbank.com
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    51 mins
  • Ep. 62 The Shocking Truth About Veterans' Homelessness and How Veterans Villages Is Changing the Game
    Sep 11 2024

    In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Dana Spain, the president of Veterans Villages, to discuss the organization’s mission to provide safe, respectful, and independent housing for veterans transitioning out of homelessness. She also discusses the essential difference between temporary and permanent housing solutions for veterans and highlights the pressing need for supportive services.

    “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes military community who they are.

    We — with guests like you — will help the military community not only navigate their finances but also military life. We chat about both good and bad financial practices and provide some insight along the way. We’ll share strategies to help people get ahead, discuss military benefits that members should take advantage of, and more – all working towards the goal of helping people become more financially independent.

    On the show, we’ll also preview and talk about how to take advantage of military specific services, such as loans and mortgages, and help members prepare for important milestones such as PCS moves and the transition to civilian life. Finally, at the end of every episode, we have a bit of fun with our Military Minute. That guessing-game segment features military history, hobbies, a bit of pop culture. Correct guesses by listeners could result in a donation to charity of individual’s choice.

    Show more Show less
    52 mins

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