The Financial "Shoulds" That Create the Most Stress (and Why You're Allowed to Ignore Them)
Ever feel like no matter what you do, you're somehow still behind? Like there's an invisible checklist you're supposed to be following and everyone else got the memo except you? The pressure to own a home, save more, be further in your career, or hit certain life milestones can quietly create stress and shame, especially when those "shoulds" don't line up with your real life. Today we talk honestly about the financial "shoulds" society places on us, why they can lead to poor decisions, and how redefining success can bring clarity, confidence, and peace.
Read More
Looking Back on 2025 Together
If you ever wondered what it really looks like when a community bank says, We're here for more than transactions, this episode is it. In this conversation, our marketing team looks back on 2025 and walks through everything we poured our hearts into this year. From hands-on financial literacy events and community celebrations to moments that honored our employees and the people we serve, this episode pulls back the curtain on the why behind the work. It's honest, a little reflective, and a great reminder that the best impact is often made in the in-between moments. Tune in for a look at the year that shaped us and the community we are proud to be part of.
Read More
How to Give Thoughtfully Without Making a Tax Time Mistake this Holiday
The holiday season brings out the best in people. Everywhere you look there are toy drives, coat drives, Giving Tuesday posts, and countless opportunities to give back. But it is also the time of year when a lot of well-meaning generosity turns into confusion. What actually counts as a charitable donation? What does the IRS allow you to deduct? And how do you give in a way that truly makes an impact without creating a surprise at tax time? In this episode, we sit down with Matt Businaro, CPA and Chief Financial Officer of Farmers State Bank, to talk through how to give thoughtfully, what qualifies for a deduction, and the common mistakes people make during the biggest giving season of the year.
Read More
The 50 Year Mortgage Rumor Everyone Is Talking About and What It Could Cost You
There is a lot of talk online about the idea of a 50 year mortgage. Nothing official has been announced and for now it is all just hearsay. But if it ever becomes reality, it could change the way families buy homes and the way communities grow. In this episode, we break down what a 50 year mortgage might look like, how it compares to a 30 year loan, the real cost hidden inside the monthly payment, and why it could leave buyers with very little equity for a long time. For what it is worth, we share our honest opinion on whether this would help or hurt homebuyers in the long run, and what you can do to protect yourself no matter what the future of lending looks like.
Read More
Scammers Smell Tariff Dividend Money. Here's How They'll Strike
With all the talk about Americans receiving a tariff dividend check, scammers are already gearing up to strike. In this episode, we break down how fraud exploded during the 2020 stimulus payments and why the same schemes are almost guaranteed to circle back if tariff money ever becomes real. From fake IRS texts to AI voice calls to convincing look-alike websites, scammers will try anything to get between you and your check. We walk you through how the government actually distributes payments and the red flags to watch for so you keep every dollar that belongs to you. Stay informed, stay cautious, and tune in before the scam wave hits your inbox.
Read More