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Understanding Modern Fraud With Detective Brian Erickson

Published December 17, 2025

Financial fraud is on the rise, affecting more individuals and businesses each year. As scammers grow more creative with their methods and tactics, it’s becoming increasingly important to stay informed. Knowing the warning signs and understanding how to protect yourself and your finances can help reduce the risk of falling victim to fraud. 

On this episode of Making Sense of Money, we sat down with Brian Erickson, a detective from the Lewiston Police Department for the past 25 years. Over this time, he has worked as a school resource officer and a major crimes detective. Now he focuses on complex fraud investigations. With his experience, it has given him a clear view of how scammers operate and how these crimes have an impact on people in the community. 

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Holiday Scams to Watch Out For: How to Protect Your Money This Season

Published December 19, 2025

 As the holidays get closer and last-minute shopping begins, opportunities for scammers to take advantage of people during this time increase.  Whether you’re shopping online, picking up gift cards, or tracking deliveries, staying alert can help protect your personal and financial information.   

Click below to learn about common holiday scams and how to protect your finances during this busy season.

gutter with ice in it

4 Simple Ways to Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather

Published December 11, 2025

The leaves are nearly done falling, and the temperatures have begun to drop. With winter just around the corner, preparing your home for the season is vital. Click below to check out four ways to best prepare and winterize your home.  


4  Ways to Budget Effectively During the Holidays

Published December 10, 2025

It’s officially the holiday season, one of the most enjoyable and meaningful times of the year. It’s a chance to gather with family and friends, share meals and traditions, and take part in all the winter activities that make this season special. It can also be a time when spending naturally increases, whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, preparing for holiday events, or feeling the pressure to buy more than you originally planned. 

The good news is that with a bit of preparation and awareness, you can navigate holiday spending with confidence. Click below to check out 4 tips to help you finish the holiday season with your budget intact. 

 

How Community Partnerships are Feeding Families This Holiday Season

Published November 13, 2025

Season of Giving is a very special time of year at P1FCU. This is a time when we can spread joy throughout our communities and partner with community members in giving back to others. 

On this week’s episode of Making Sense of Money, we had the opportunity to sit down with Carlo, the owner of Lewiston Grocery Outlet, and Jason, our Community Development Specialist, to discuss how community partnerships are helping to feed families this holiday season.  

 

Financial Abuse: The Hidden Side of Toxic Relationships

Published October 15, 2025

When we think about abuse, typically our minds jump to physical or mental abuse. But there is another form. One that is quieter, and often less visible, but can trap someone just as deeply: financial abuse.

In our 20th Episode of Making Sense of Money, we sat down with Shelly Meisner from the YWCA. Shelly is an advocate with over 20 years of experience supporting survivors of abuse. She shared her insights into how financial control operates in toxic relationships and what resources are available for those who find themselves trapped in such situations.

 
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Building Credit The Smart Way

Published September 18, 2025
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of building credit? Or maybe you wish that someone had taught you about it sooner. Either way, you're not alone. In the latest podcast episode of Making Sense of Money, Tanis sat down with Kylie, Consumer Lending Program Manager at P1FCU, to discuss a new product designed to help you take those next steps in your credit journey.
 

scott green and chris loseth on podcast

Building Legacy Through Partnership

Published August 21, 2025
When it comes to meaningful partnerships, few stand out like the relationship between P1FCU and the University of Idaho. In the latest episode of the Making Sense of Money podcast, President Scott Green of the University of Idaho and Chris Loseth, President and CEO of P1FCU, reflect on how their shared values and deep roots in Idaho are creating something greater than just a sponsorship.
 
 
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Thinking about investing? 

Published June 18, 2025
So, you know you should be investing and saving for the future but don't know where to start? Well, we sat down with Brett, P1FCU's Financial Advisor, on the Making Sense of Money podcast to get some help on unpacking some of the most common investment questions. Hopefully, what you learn here can help your journey toward financial well-being feel a whole lot more manageable.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to optimize your retirement plan, here is a breakdown of what you need to know.
 
 

Success From Scratch: Turning Passion Into Profit

Published May 15, 2025
We love celebrating local entrepreneurs who turn big dreams into reality, so on this week's episode of our Making Sense of Money podcast, we sat down with Brittin Fleshman, owner of B's Bakery in Lewiston, Idaho. From baking in an Easy-Bake Oven to selling out her storefront every Saturday, Brittin’s journey is a sweet reminder that with passion, persistence, and a little financial know-how, anything is possible.
 
Woman smiling in library while holding book

Clearing Up Common Financial Aid Myths

Published April 17, 2025
Planning for college can be very overwhelming, especially when it comes to financial aid. Navigating the journey of tuition, scholarships, and the dreaded FAFSA can be a challenge for students of all ages. That's why we sat down with Soo Lee Bruce-Smith, the Assistant Dean of Enrollment Services at LC State, on our Making Sense of Money podcast. She shared some myths and invaluable tips that can take the stress out of financial aid.
 
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How to Protect Yourself From Scammers

Published March 27, 2025
Buying your first home is an exciting and scary milestone; sometimes, the journey can feel overwhelming. With so many steps and financial decisions to consider, getting lost in the process is easy. But don't worry! P1FCU's VP of Mortgage Lending, Wes Gossage, joined the Making Sense of Money Podcast to break down everything you need to know to make your first home purchase a success.
 
 

log home in the country

What You Need to Know Before Purchasing a Home

Published March 13, 2025
Buying your first home is an exciting and scary milestone; sometimes, the journey can feel overwhelming. With so many steps and financial decisions to consider, getting lost in the process is easy. But don't worry! P1FCU's VP of Mortgage Lending, Wes Gossage, joined the Making Sense of Money Podcast to break down everything you need to know to make your first home purchase a success.
 

woman shopping the grocery store pushing cart

How to Save Money on Groceries: Tips from The Idaho Foodbank

Published February 13, 2025
The holidays are a season of joy and family, and let's be honest, spending too much money on stuff you swore you'd keep under budget. Things like that inflatable snowman you just had to have - we've all been there. Now that the lights are packed away and the credit card statements are rolling in, you might wonder, "Did I need expedited shipping on everything?"
 
 































person looking at computer

Is Buy Now Pay Later Right For You?

In the last five years, buy now, pay later services have exploded in popularity. As a consumer, you may be asking yourself how these buy now, pay later services work.

person looking at laptop

Strategies for Paying Off Debt

If you're feeling overwhelmed with debt, know that you're not alone.
 
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4 Steps for Making Your Budget

Whether you're just starting with your budget or you've been at it a while, creating a budget is a key part of your overall financial well-being.