The Mendoza Podcast: Financial Talk That Makes Cents

Financial elder abuse is one of the most underreported forms of elder abuse in America.
In recognition of Elder Abuse Awareness Month, I welcome Brian Pastor, Aging Advocacy & Prevention Services Division Manager for the Illinois Department on Aging, to discuss the warning signs of financial exploitation, the challenges in reporting abuse, and the resources available to help protect seniors.
The more we talk about it, the better equipped we are to stop it.

What does it really take to be retirement ready? In this episode, we sit down with Richard Corral, Founding President of Retirement Systems, to discuss the importance of creating a retirement plan that fits your financial goals, lifestyle, and future needs. From preparing financially to thinking about life after work, Richard shares valuable insights on how to plan ahead with confidence. Whether retirement is years away or right around the corner, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you feel more prepared for the future.

Join me for a conversation with Kristin Faust, Executive Director of the Illinois Housing Development Authority on this episode of the Mendoza Podcast. We cover everything from renting and homeowner assistance to the need for more affordable housing and grant opportunities for developers.

March is Women's History Month, where we celebrate the accomplishments of fabulous females in Illinois and across the country. Join me for a new episode of the Mendoza Podcast, where I sit down with Dr. Suleyma Perez, Emerita Senior Executive Director at Northeastern University, and member of Women Investing in Security and Education…or WISE, and WISE Club President, Vicki Hadaway to discuss women's investment clubs and empowering women to grow their wealth.

The Mendoza Podcast is back with a timely conversation featuring Joe Ferguson, President of the Civic Federation. On the heels of the Governor’s Budget Address, the episode takes a closer look at Illinois’ finances and what responsible budgeting really means.
From pensions and the Rainy Day Fund to federal funding and good government, the discussion highlights why the state must approach its finances with the same care and accountability families use at home.

In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Ben Joergens, Director of Financial Empowerment at Old National Bank, to break down what it really means to say goodbye to the penny. We talk about why the last penny was minted, how much it actually costs to make one, and which coins could be next on the chopping block. Ben also shares insights on what these changes could mean for businesses, pricing, and everyday consumers. It is a timely conversation about money, efficiency, and how small changes can have a big economic impact.

This week, we dive into what sets credit unions apart from traditional banks. Our guest, Robert Radkowski — Senior Vice President and Head of the Midwest District for the Polish and Slavic Federal Credit Union in Chicago — breaks down how credit unions work, the benefits of member-owned institutions, and why they’re becoming a growing choice for everyday consumers.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a credit union might be a better fit for your financial needs, this episode offers a clear, straightforward look at what they can offer.

Talking about what happens after we’re gone isn’t exactly anyone’s favorite topic, but having a plan in place is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your loved ones. In this episode, we sit down with Cindy Campbell, estate planning attorney and Managing Partner at Concierge Law, to demystify the process and empower you to take control of your legacy.
We breaks down the key differences between a will and a trust, shares how to navigate complex or blended family dynamics, and explains why proactive planning can save your family from stress, confusion, and avoidable conflict.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or revisiting an old plan, this conversation is packed with clarity, relatable examples, and practical steps to help you protect what matters most.
Tune in—your future self (and your family) will thank you.

This week on the Mendoza Podcast, we take a deep dive into the psychology behind why we shop. Guest Dr Elizabeth Schwab, a professor in the Business Psychology Division at The Chicago School, helps break down the forces that shape our spending habits. From the rush of impulse buying to the hype of major shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, we explore how behavioral economics influences the choices we make and the emotions behind them. 

In this episode of the Mendoza Podcast, I sit down with Rebecca Thomson, National Vice President of Learning and Development at Coldwell Banker Realty, for a deep dive into the Illinois housing market. We talk about the real value of home upgrades, what sellers are looking for, and how buyers can navigate today’s market with confidence. Whether you are preparing to list your home or thinking about making a purchase, this conversation will give you practical insight you can use right away.