Credit unions are making waves not just locally, but globally!  The need for people helping people extends far beyond U.S. borders, and we’re about to take you on a journey that will expand your understanding of just how impactful this movement is. In the latest episode of Banking on Experience, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mike Reuter, CEO of the Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions.  From supporting disaster recovery efforts to driving financial inclusion across the globe, Mike shares eye-opening stories and highlights how credit unions are helping communities thrive across the world. Want to know how we can bridge the digital gap and bring financial inclusion to underserved communities? Or how technology and cooperation are uniting credit unions worldwide?  Mike’s insights will leave you both inspired and energized about the future of this movement.  

Think small credit unions can't thrive in a post-pandemic economy? Think again. If you believe they can't be at the forefront of innovation, it's time to reconsider. In this episode, we're joined by Jed Meyer, CEO of St. Cloud Financial Credit Union, who is rewriting the playbook for small-to-midsize credit unions.  Jed is challenging the status quo, growing, and innovating at a rapid pace—all while making no excuses and staying laser-focused on the core mission of the credit union movement: serving members and making a meaningful impact on the community. Get ready to dive deep into the strategies and mindset that have propelled St. Cloud Financial Credit Union to new heights. Discover how Jed Meyer's leadership is turning conventional wisdom on its head and positioning his credit union as a leader in both growth and innovation.  

Are you struggling with the complexities of getting crucial certifications and grants for your credit union?  We’re excited to welcome Shirley Senn, Chief Consulting Officer for CU Strategic Planning, a key figure in the credit union movement. With a passion for saving small credit unions and serving the underserved, Shirley has dedicated her career to helping financial institutions thrive. In this episode, Shirley shares her deep insights and expert advice on navigating the intricate world of certifications and grants. With a tremendous amount of change in the CDFI space over the last few years, many institutions are at risk of losing their hard-earned designations.  Shirley will address these challenges and provide the most important advice for credit unions striving to obtain their certification and strategies to preserve it.  

Healthcare costs are skyrocketing, and the pandemic has intensified both mental and physical health crises. Traditional healthcare plans often fall short, leaving many to endure high-interest loans or forgo essential treatments. In this crucial episode of Banking on Experience, we explore how innovative fintech solutions and credit union collaboration are stepping in to address these challenges. Join us as we interview Paul Clampitt, Principal at CU Healthcare PayCard, and Kris Carerra, SVP at VyStar Credit Union. They share insights into CU Healthcare PayCard, a groundbreaking approach to healthcare financing that could revolutionize how members manage their medical expenses. Don’t miss this timely discussion on a solution that could reshape the future of healthcare funding.  

Ever feel like AI is just a buzzword? This episode is where the rubber meets the road. We’re diving into how AI can elevate your bank or credit union by growing your member base and deepening your existing relationships. Get ready for a no-nonsense AI breakdown with real-world applications that could up-level your approach to growth. Our guest today is Mitch Rutledge, CEO and Co-Founder of Vertice AI. Mitch breaks down the essentials of new member acquisition and expanding share of wallet, providing a clear blueprint for leveraging AI to achieve these goals. This discussion isn’t just theoretical. Mitch is setting the stage with practical AI use cases that are directly applicable to your financial institution’s growth strategy. Whether you’re aiming to expand your customer base or deepen existing relationships, learn how AI can drive these initiatives forward effectively and efficiently. Don’t let another year pass without tapping into the power of AI to enhance your institution's performance and reach.  Listen now and equip yourself with the knowledge to prioritize and execute AI-driven growth strategies that actually move the needle. 

In this episode, we dive into the rapidly expanding world of cannabis banking—a sector buzzing with opportunity yet tangled in regulatory constraints. Despite the broad legalization across states, federal hesitancy leaves many entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry struggling to find financial footing, caught in a limbo of being either unbanked or underbanked. Enter the vanguard of the Credit Union Industry, who are not just observing from the sidelines but actively stepping in to bridge this glaring gap. Join us for an enlightening discussion with two trailblazers leading the charge. Marsha Majors, President and CEO of US Eagle Federal Credit Union—one of New Mexico's most storied credit unions—shares her insights on delivering innovative financial solutions amid the unique challenges of cannabis banking. With a steadfast dedication to community service, Marsha brings invaluable perspectives on navigating the complex landscape of regulations and operational hurdles. Alongside Marsha, we welcome Tony Repanich, President and COO of Shield Compliance. Tony illuminates the path for financial institutions with Shield's cutting-edge compliance management platform, making it simpler for banks and credit unions to extend their services to Cannabis-Related Businesses (CRBs) safely and efficiently. Tune into another riveting episode of Banking in Experience, where we uncover the lessons learned and the groundbreaking strides being made in serving this underserved market. Don't miss this blend of expertise and innovation at the forefront of cannabis banking.  

Is legacy technology stifling innovation at your bank or credit union? In this transformative episode of the Banking on Experience Podcast, we delve into the heart of technological stagnation that plagues many financial institutions. Join us as we engage with the minds behind Janusea, the company at the forefront of breaking down the barriers imposed by outdated core systems. Kyle Stutzman, CEO and Co-founder of Janusea, along with Masako Long, VP of Sales, share their expert insights and the visionary blueprint they’ve developed to revolutionize the financial technology landscape. This episode is more than just a discussion; it’s a deep dive into the specific challenges of integrating with legacy systems and how to navigate these with strategic finesse and innovative thinking. Discover the tactical steps, from initial assessment to execution, and the crucial strategic partnerships that make integrating cutting-edge fintech solutions not just a possibility, but a streamlined process. Kyle and Masako illuminate the path towards transforming your institution into a more interconnected, efficient, and customer-centric entity. This episode was a revelation. It answered the long-standing question of why connecting with legacy systems can feel as daunting as hacking into Area 51—and, more importantly, it showed that it doesn't have to be this way.  This dialogue is a must-listen for any financial professional determined to move past the hurdles of legacy systems and steer their institution towards a future of technological empowerment and innovation. Don't let legacy technology dictate your institution's future. Tune in to discover how to turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and technological renewal.  

As credit unions and their members face an intensifying landscape of challenges, from stringent audits to strategic mergers, this episode sheds light on the crucial decisions shaping the industry's future. I Join Joshua Barclay and John Taylor, alongside growth engineer John Dearing from Capstone Strategic, as they dissect controversial merger impacts, forecast economic shifts, and unveil cutting-edge growth strategies that promise to redefine credit union success. Whether you're navigating the pitfalls of fintech investments or seeking innovative ways to increase product and service penetration, this episode offers actionable insights and expert advice to guide you through. Don't miss this opportunity to transform challenges into stepping stones for growth. Tune in now to "Banking on Experience" and arm yourself with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive in 2024 and beyond.  To watch an interactive demo of the CRMNEXT platform, click this link.

Dive into the realm of Michigan State University Federal Credit Union, where innovation isn't just a buzzword – it's a way of life, thanks to their groundbreaking innovation lab. Witness firsthand how Michigan State University Federal Credit Union sets the standard in the credit union landscape through relentless innovation and strategic foresight. Gain unparalleled insights from the CEO herself, April Clobes, as she shares the transformative strategies and inventive solutions driving their success. Michigan State University Federal Credit Union has an impressive record of achievements: Serving over 338,000 members worldwide, they've been recognized by American Banker as a top credit union employer for six consecutive years. In 2022 alone, their commitment to the community was evident as they supported 292 local organizations, conducted 1,618 financial education events, and earned accolades for their dedicated service to Hispanic communities. So, what can Michigan State University Federal Credit Union’s CEO teach you about innovation and strategy in this unfriendly economy? You’re gonna want to find out.  Join us in this not-to-be-missed episode and future-proof your credit union with the tools and wisdom needed to innovate quickly.  

Are you up to date with the latest consumer lending trends for credit unions and banks in 2024? We've invited a renowned industry expert to demystify emerging consumer lending trends and reveal opportunities for your credit union or bank. Meet our guest, Jade Beckman, the Vice President of Consumer Lending at Mountain America Credit Union, steering credit card services, loan options, and member-centric financial solutions. Join our brutally honest conversation with Jade, as we dive into the latest consumer lending trends that will shape your decision-making in 2024. Essential for any lending professional, this episode of Banking on Experience offers key insights to excel in lending this year. As of January 2023, Mountain America Credit Union reported a staggering $16 billion in assets, firmly securing its position as the 10th largest credit union in the United States by total assets. Mountain America Credit Union achieved another remarkable milestone –– surpassing one million members, making it one of the only eight credit unions to reach such a mark. What sets Mountain America Credit Union apart is its member-first approach, prioritizing financial wellness over profits. This ethos drives their commitment to offering a wide range of flexible, effective financial solutions. Ready to revolutionize your lending strategy in 2024? Don't miss this game-changing episode of Banking on Experience.  

  Are you ready to see what artificial intelligence can really do for your Credit Union or Community Bank, beyond the buzzwords and the hype? Forget the jargon and the tech-speak; this episode is tailored for Credit Union and Community Bank professionals who want to harness the power of AI without getting bogged down by complexities. We're cutting through the noise to focus on what AI really means for you, the backbone of our local financial institutions, and the communities you serve. It's time to uncover the practical implications of AI and explore how these breakthroughs can enhance your operational efficiency and service delivery. You don't need a tech background to get the most out of this conversation. All you need is to tune in as we break down the opportunities that AI is bringing to your doorstep. Whether you're looking to streamline processes, enhance customer experience, or leverage data like a pro, this episode is your playbook for the digital age. And who better to guide us through this journey than Rich Edwards, CEO of Mindspan Systems? With his extensive background in software for financial institutions and a pivotal role in developing IBM's Watson — the AI that became a household name after its victory on Jeopardy! — Rich offers unparalleled insights. He’s here to explain why the current landscape is an unprecedented opportunity for Credit Unions and Community Banks to leverage AI's potential. Don't miss out on the chance to elevate your professional game. Tune in to "AI Simplified" and be part of the transformation that's reshaping the future of finance, one insight at a time.  

  Small credit unions often find themselves in the shadow of larger banks, with the threat of mergers looming large. But is there a way for these underdogs to not just survive, but thrive amidst such challenges? Enter Peter St. Onge, President/CEO of Trademark Federal Credit Union, who knows the pressure all too well. Upon stepping into his role, St. Onge was greeted with daunting challenges: a staggering 43% employee turnover rate and a troubling negative Return on Assets (ROA). With the walls closing in and merger discussions becoming a persistent buzz, Trademark Federal Credit Union was fighting an uphill battle for survival. However, through innovative leadership and strategic changes, the narrative began to shift. Today, Trademark Federal Credit Union stands as a testament to what's possible, expecting a healthy positive ROA of 50-60 basis points, and the whispers of mergers have been silenced. In this episode of Banking on Experience, we delve into the remarkable turnaround story of Trademark Federal Credit Union. Join us as Peter St. Onge shares the pivotal decisions, leadership philosophies, and steadfast commitments that transformed a struggling credit union into a flourishing, employee-first institution. Discover the insights and strategies that any small credit union can employ to chart its own course to success. Tune in to uncover the secrets behind beating the odds and rewriting an organization's destiny.  

In this episode, we uncover the invaluable lessons that credit union leaders can learn from the remarkable Ronaldo Hardy, the new CEO of NACUSO. With a deep well of industry experience and a track record as a purpose-driven, high-results CEO at Southwest Louisiana FCU, Shell Geismar FCU, and as the "Chief People Officer" at his consulting firm, "CU Strategic Planning," Ronaldo is a wealth of knowledge waiting to be tapped. But what sets him apart isn't just his impressive resume; it's his ability to inspire and lead. As a sought-after keynote speaker at prestigious events like CUNA Management School, SW CUNA Management School, Western CUNA Management Alumni Association, CUES, and the NCUA's Inaugural Diversity Summit, Ronaldo has shared his insights with audiences far and wide. In this episode, we delve into the leadership principles that have propelled Ronaldo to the top and the strategies he employs to drive results and inspire teams. Discover how his passion for learning, laughter, and leadership has shaped his journey and how it can transform your approach to credit union leadership. Don't miss this opportunity to glean wisdom from a leader who's making waves and paving the way for the future of credit unions. This podcast is powered by CRMNEXT, the ultimate CRM for Credit Unions and Community Banks. Watch an interactive demo by clicking this link: https://play.goconsensus.com/bc4f7d5de  

Are you a credit union leader or stakeholder looking for a competitive edge in auto lending? Don't miss this must-listen episode of 'Banking on Experience,' where we pull back the curtain on the auto lending industry. Our special guests, Kurt Howard and John Riley of CU Alliance, will share exclusive industry data on emerging auto market trends that are reshaping the landscape. Here's what you can expect from this podcast episode: Gain insights from industry data on auto market trends and what they mean for your credit union. Discover proven strategies to leverage CUSOs for maximum impact. Unlock actionable tips for converting new indirect members into long-term members with multiple products and deep wallet share. Tune in for a deep dive into the auto market and indirect lending, and walk away equipped with the tools you need to secure your credit union's future.  Read why CRMNEXT has been recognized by Forrester as a Wave Leader in Financial Services CRM: https://info.crmnext.com/forrester-wave-report-for-financial-services-crm

Is the traditional lending model under threat?  Today’s guest believes we’re entering a “New World Banking Order,” a change of such great magnitude, that only the banks and credit unions that adapt their lending strategies quickly will survive.  Join us as S. P. "Wije" Wijegoonaratna, CEO and Founder of Aliya, unravels the limitations of traditional FICO scores and explains the significance of hidden data gems like transactional behavior.  As financial institutions grapple with shrinking Net Interest Margins and the dark cloud of an impending credit crunch, agility and inclusivity are no longer optional in your lending practices—they're paramount.  So, how do you build a new lending playbook and survive the “New World Banking Order?” You adopt innovative methods, ensuring your institution not only keeps pace but also leads in the lending evolution. Hit play and step into the future of lending. If you want to see an interactive demo of CRMNEXT, the ultimate CRM for Credit Unions and banks, use this link: https://play.goconsensus.com/s852449bd  

Ready to Achieve Credit Union Marketing Excellence on a Shoestring Budget?   Ever feel like a Credit Union marketing MacGyver, being constantly nudged to craft marketing miracles with what might as well be a shoestring and some chewing gum? We've all been there.   But hold your head high! Even in a sluggish economy, being a Credit Union marketer isn't about losing, it's about reinventing yourself with creativity and resourcefulness!   We want to invite you to the Banking on Experience live podcast, which is an online community event bringing together the best marketers in the Credit Union space –– to answer your most pressing marketing questions and help you overcome challenges.   This podcast recording comes from our live podcast event, recorded on August 9th, 2023.   Listen up –– this is the Credit Union marketing advice you've been waiting for!   Enjoy.

The burning question for many credit unions is: "To Merge or Not to Merge?" It's a decision that carries profound implications, and one that's becoming ever more pressing in our turbulent financial landscape. With an array of challenges confronting smaller credit unions, is merging the only path forward? Or might your credit union be missing out on unexplored avenues for growth, hidden in plain sight? Our esteemed guest, Sam Brownell, Founder and CEO of CUCalloborate, believes there's more to the story. He argues that many credit unions on the verge of merging aren't fully harnessing their growth potential—a potential unlocked by strategically wielding data. Join us as we delve into these hidden opportunities, revealing how data's transformative power can not only broaden your field of membership but also crystallize your credit union's unique niche. Learn the secrets to unlocking this growth and how other credit unions have successfully navigated this complex landscape. Before making that monumental merger decision, pause and consider the untapped growth waiting to be discovered. Tune in to this can't-miss episode for a fresh and unique perspective on credit union mergers.  Sam Brownell's exclusive insights and actionable strategies could very well redefine your approach to growth and become the key to your credit union's success.   If you'd like to attend our live podcast on Wednesday, August 9th at 12 pm EST –– use this link to register: https://www.crowdcast.io/c/banking-on-experience-live-podcast-

It's no longer enough for credit union contact centers to simply answer questions and resolve issues. To remain competitive and ensure sustained growth, credit unions need to transition their contact centers from mere service providers to revenue-generating powerhouses. Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve deep into how credit unions can revolutionize their contact centers and turn every member interaction into a potential growth opportunity.  Today’s guest on the Banking on Experience Podcast is Darlene Hilton, VP of Member Services at Lone Star Credit Union.  Darlene is here to bring you actionable steps on how to transition your contact center from a service-only approach to a sales-focused environment, without sacrificing the member service excellence that credit unions are known for. Join us as we explore how to leverage technology to better understand member needs, how to train your staff to identify and seize opportunities, and how to create a culture that fosters growth while maintaining the trust and integrity at the heart of your credit union. This episode is a must-listen for credit union leaders, contact center managers, and anyone in the credit union space seeking innovative ways to drive growth and transform their contact center into a dynamic, member-centric sales engine. Tune in and discover how to maximize your credit union's growth potential in the era of digital and relationship banking.  

Introducing new technology to your Credit Union can feel like trying to launch a spaceship with a rubber band.   But what if we told you there's a secret weapon—a cheat code—to help you leap over the hurdles of adopting new technology?    Imagine your Credit Union smoothly adopting innovative fintech, all while expertly managing risk.   Our guests on today’s show are announcing a special event designed to help Credit Unions find the right fintech partners.   Jenny Jackson, Alliance Manager at CUNA, and Nick Evens, President and CEO of Curql Collective, are here to announce one of the biggest events in the Credit Union industry: VentureTech 2023.   VentureTech 2023 is the premier fintech showcase event for the entire credit union industry in one place; credit unions, CUSO’s, credit union leagues, credit union venture groups and credit union companies.   If you’re wondering, yes, Joshua Barclay and Jonathan Taylor will be at VentureTech 2023 doing a live podcast recording.    If you’re interested in attending the VentureTech event, taking place at the Omni Frisco Hotel in Texas from November 6-8, click here to register.  

  We’re in the middle of an insurance crisis: Credit Unions and community banks are being dropped by their providers while premiums skyrocket. Likewise, consumers face escalating insurance costs as global economic instability intensifies. Here's a snapshot of the escalating insurance costs: Car Insurance: A 14% surge from 2022-2023 (Quadrant Information Services). Health Insurance: A 58% increase in individual coverage premiums from 2010 to 2022 (Kaiser Family Foundation Employer Health Benefits Survey). Homeowners Insurance: A 21% hike in property coverage from 2015 to 2023 (LexisNexis Risk Solutions) This episode guides Credit Unions and Banks on how to sustain coverage and navigate risk effectively in these uncertain times. Joining us is Taylor MacCurdy, a lifelong participant in the collateral protection industry, now CEO and President of ISI. Born to industry stalwart John MacCurdy, Taylor carries on his father's impressive four-decade legacy in the CPI market. Stay tuned as Taylor imparts strategies to mitigate the challenges of the unfolding insurance crisis.  

  Here's an uncomfortable reality that our Credit Union comrades must grapple with: a whopping 84% of digital transformations fail, according to Forbes.  And this isn't just a Credit Union issue; it's an industry-wide epidemic, with every data point on the internet citing a two-thirds or higher failure rate. What truly unnerves us about this staggering statistic is the impact it has on our Credit Union members. After all, they are the reason we exist, and they're relying on us to navigate these turbulent economic times. We're not just talking about a failed project or wasted resources here. We're talking about failing to provide the timely and effective help our members desperately need. If we can't access our member data on-demand, and if we can't swiftly convert insights into action – how can we genuinely assist them? How can we live up to our promise to be their trusted financial partner? In our latest episode of The Banking on Experience Podcast, we aren't dwelling on failure. Nope. Instead, we're flipping the script and discussing how Credit Unions can achieve successful digital transformation. Why is this so crucial? Because our members' wellness is at stake, and the "too-big-to-fail" banks are waiting in the wings. And let's be honest, those guys have never offered me, or probably any of you, a decent rate on an auto loan. Big promises require big firepower, and that's exactly what we're bringing to the latest podcast episode. We've invited two heavy hitters in the world of digital transformation, and they're here to show us how to get it right. First, we have Jamie Jackson, CEO of Arkatechture, a data transformation company with a remarkable 100% successful implementation rate. They're not just any data company; they're also a CUSO that recently clinched the CUSO of the Year title at the 2023 NACUSO Event. Then we have Nishant Rao, helming CRMNEXT North America, a financial CRM that has overseen four of the five largest successful CRM implementations worldwide and has a stunning record of zero customer churn. Talk about setting the bar high! These industry veterans are not just talking the talk; they're walking the walk, and they are here to share their invaluable insights and proven strategies with us. Get ready to learn how to do digital transformation, and data transformation, the right way. Happy transformation, friends.

  In recent weeks, we've seen deposits move from regional banks to colossal, too-big-to-fail institutions, as people grow increasingly concerned about their deposit safety. Is this the perfect opportunity for Credit Unions to showcase their unique value to Americans and increase their market share? And if this is a golden opportunity to win hearts and minds, how can Credit Unions present themselves as a safer, superior alternative to banks? If only there were a seasoned Credit Union Marketer to guide you in seizing the opportunity to convey credit unions' unique value and attract more deposits.  Meet CU Joe, the bold, brutally honest CU Marketer who's changing the game with new, inventive Credit Union marketing strategies!  Joe Sheridan, aka "CU Joe," Head of Business Development for Simply Insights and CUSO Sales for Creative Choice Solutions, joins JT and Josh for a riveting episode of Banking on Experience, powered by CRMNext.  Dive into discussions on thriving during a recession, standing out amidst member noise, CU marketing challenges, and the bright future of his CUSO.  Get ready for more brutally honest financial insights to help you level up.  

Looking for brutally honest answers to your liquidity challenges? Then you won't want to miss out on the first-ever Banking on Experience Live Podcast: Liquidity Crisis 2023 and actionable solutions. This live podcast brought together a community of credit union professionals and industry experts who are committed to sharing their insights, knowledge, and experience to help you solve your liquidity challenges. During this live podcast event, hosts Joshua Barclay and Jonathan Taylor cover the liquidity crisis from multiple angles. Liquidity Threats –– What are the “iceberg ahead” liquidity threats on the horizon that Credit Unions should be looking out for? Low-Hanging Fruit –– What are the easy initiatives Credit Unions can implement right now to boost their liquidity position? Innovative Solutions –– What are new, inventive ways in which Credit Unions can boost liquidity? The focus of this live podcast is to provide brutally honest answers to the biggest liquidity challenges facing the Credit Union industry, and the expert panel delivered just that. The expert panel included the following names: Merry Pateuk, Senior VP, PSCU Ian Lampl, Cofounder & CEO, Loanstreet INC. Dan Daggett, President of Daggett Enterprises Listen to the Banking on Experience Live Podcast to level up your liquidity right now.  Stay tuned for future Banking on Experience Live Podcasts, as our mission is to build a community of Credit Union professionals who share insights and help each other level up as professionals. Together, we can create a better future for the credit union industry.  

As we strive to embody our values, it's essential to evaluate ourselves periodically. Joe Winn, also known as the "CU Geek" and a Data/Marketing Jedi, has demonstrated as President of GreenProfit Solutions that aligning your Credit Union's business model around social purpose is vital.  During this week's episode of Banking on Experience, we discuss how straying from the "People Helping People" mantra has led some Credit Union decisions astray. We must always choose the light side of the force, and it's time for a "check-up from the neck up."   Lastly, if you'd like to sign up for our live podcast tackling the liquidity crisis, you can sign up here: https://www.crowdcast.io/c/banking-on-experience-live

  Taylor Nelms is here to reveal Filene's latest Breakthrough research for Credit Union Success. Armed with insights from Filene's cutting-edge incubators, research projects, and focus groups, Taylor talks about the toughest problems facing Credit Unions and how to solve them. Now, let's talk about the awesome organization Taylor Nelms is a part of.  Birthed in 1989, Filene Research Institute is like the Area-51 of the Credit Union space. I say that not because Filene has alien spacecraft but because they are responsible for cutting-edge research that sparks innovation for Credit Unions.  In this interview, we offer you a glimpse into the future of Credit Union innovation. The future looks bright.  Lastly, if you want to sign up for the Banking on Experience Live show, use the link below:  https://www.crowdcast.io/c/banking-on-experience-live

Are you ready for more from the "CU That Could"? Well, we've got you covered! Becky Reed, CEO of LoneStar CU, is back by popular demand for the second installment of our deep dive into the world of cryptocurrency.  Joining her is John Wingate, CEO and Founder of BankSocial, whom she affectionately refers to as her "crypto bro from another mo." In this episode of "Banking on Experience," we take a closer look at the crypto debate through the lens of the CU space and hear the story of BankSocial. Listen in as John and Becky explain why they built their Crypto Exchange for Credit Unions. Get ready to discover the smartest way to offer cryptocurrency to your members! After listening,  you'll gain the knowledge and confidence you need to offer crypto like a pro. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to learn from the best and take your Credit Union to the next level!   If you would like to join us for the Banking on Experience Live Event, use this link to register: https://www.crowdcast.io/c/banking-on-experience-live

This week we are honored to have the Vice Chair of the NCUA (and Maine small-town boy), Kyle Hauptman. Kyle opens up about the biggest political and economic issues that are hitting our Credit Unions and their members during this recession,  the current and future economic climate, the upcoming GAC (Governmental Affairs Conference), and his journey from Bar Harbor, Maine, to his appointment from the highest office in our land!   Grab a coffee, cocoa, or maybe something a little stronger, and get bundled by the fire and join us for this brutally honest fireside chat from the armchair of the vice chair of the NCUA.  Lastly, if you're interested in signing up for our live online event: "Banking on Experience All The Way Live," you can sign up for the event here:  https://crowdcast.io/c/banking-on-experience-live The theme of this live event: Proven solutions and actionable steps your Credit Union can take now to find more liquidity during this recession During this live online event, we will be joined by special guests who have experience building liquidity in creative ways, and if our guests cannot answer your question, your peers will field your questions, too. Alternatively, you have the ability to answer questions, as well. This isn’t a boring webinar where you passively watch talking heads for an hour –– this is a live, interactive event to strengthen the Credit Union movement with brutally honest insights to help you level up as a Credit Union professional.  Here's the link to sign up for the event, again: https://crowdcast.io/c/banking-on-experience-live  

  Dear Credit Union Listeners, if you're thinking of dismissing Bitcoin and not making it an option for your members, you may be missing the big picture.    Your Members didn't stop making investments after they discovered what Bernie Madoff was doing on the 17th floor of the Lipstick Building. According to this week's guest, this FTX fiasco is no different –– the demand for Bitcoin will continue.    With all of the doom and gloom surrounding Bitcoin, we wanted to bring you (and us) some much-needed perspective.        Chris Kline, Co-Founder and COO of Bitcoin IRA, is here to give you a crash course on the history of Bitcoin, what really happened in the FTX scandal and the best way you can safely and securely offer Bitcoin to your Members today.    Chris is uniquely qualified to talk about Bitcoin. He created a service, Bitcoin IRA, that allows "investors to capitalize on the rapidly growing digital currency market space for their retirement portfolio while maintaining full IRS compliance. Under his direction, the company has grown to over $100 million in assets under custodianship," according to the Forbes Council.   If you ever thought, "I want to offer Bitcoin to my Members, but I don't know where to start," this is the podcast for you.  

Yeah, we're definitely in a recession, but that doesn't mean Credit Unions should sit idle. It's time to take action.  Back by popular demand, Jim Ryan, VP of Strategic Partnerships at Curql Collective, is here to help us kick off 2023 with a message of hope. In this episode, Jim gives his take on the 2023 recession and how strategic participation in Curql Collective and Curql Fund can help solve the challenges of Credit Unions during a cloudy economic forecast. This podcast episode is for the Credit Unions that want to learn how to build a better member experience with the help of fintech, and Jim is the perfect guy to help you do that.  The mission of our podcast is to have brutally honest conversations about the biggest challenges facing Credit Unions and Banks in 2023. If that interests you, this is the podcast for you. 

Everyone in the Credit Union space has heard the same thing for almost a decade: The fintechs are coming! But few people have offered Credit Unions actionable advice on how to compete in the era of ever-changing financial technology –– until now. Ron Araujo, President of Mission Federal Services, LLC, a CUSO that has become one of the country’s first fintech investment funds for CU products and services, is here to teach you how to get your CU on the fintech playing field.  Ron shares how and why Mission Federal decided to step into the fintech world and what they did to improve their odds of winning through a hybrid model of direct investments and a close relationship with another CUSO, CURQL Collective. On this episode of the Banking on Experience Podcast, we offer you a dynamic conversation about the evolution of member service and how actively investing in the future of fintechs can future-proof your Credit Union.  If you want to know how your Credit Union can embrace technology and thrive in 2023, this is the podcast episode for you. 

You know your Credit Union needs to rethink its marketing strategy going into 2023. But how, exactly, are you going to do marketing differently?  To help you answer this question, we brought on a brutally honest marketer with over 20 years of experience.  Enter Isaiah Moskowitz, Owner of LTI Business Solutions and MC for the Cooperative Credit Union Association’s Podcast, The Insider Forum!   On this episode of the Banking on Experience Podcast, Isaiah talks about Credit Union marketing, the things they get wrong, and how they can improve the Member experience with the right marketing strategy.  If you want to improve your Credit Union's marketing engine, this episode is for you. 

After years of throwing the CECL “Message in a Bottle” back into the ocean, the Credit Union industry now must comply and set money aside from every loan in case things go sour.  Is this rainy day fund just in time, or will this regulation hinder the growth of Credit Unions big and small?  Michael Cochrum pilots the ship in this week’s episode. He breaks down the history of CECL, how to use data to comply with the requirement, and talks about his professional data journey in the CU Movement.  Michael has worked in the Credit Union space for 32 years, most notably with the CUSO, CUDL, and is now the owner of Creative Market Resource Group, INC (CRMG Solutions) and CUBI.PRO, helping Credit Unions with data and business intelligence, among many other things.  Is building this “Ark”-a-techture (see what we did there) going to help stave off the impending financial flood, or will the funds required pull smaller CU’s further under the surface?  Tune in and find out.     

There is good reason to believe that we will see a major auto-loan default crisis coming very soon.  What will happen to vehicle values and the loans attached to them? And how will this affect your Credit Union and its members?   If only there was a “crystal ball”...  Enter Jim Tenhudfeld, President of Frost Financial Services.   Jim has over 25 years in the world of Protection Products for Credit Unions, first as an AVP at Great American and then as President of Frost Financial Services. As a premier provider of collateral products like GAP Protection, Jim has seen the ups and downs of several market cycles, especially in the world of vehicle depreciation.  Jim is here to share a glimpse into his vehicle valuation “crystal ball," and the clouds are definitely getting stormy.  Is there going to be an auto-loan default crisis in the next 3-6 months? Tune in and find out. 

Here’s the bad news for you Credit Union folks: You are losing your competitive advantage over banks.  Historically, Credit Unions have had advantages over banks in the following areas –– rates and fees, member service, and digital technology.  But now, banks are catching up to Credit Unions in all three areas. On this episode of the banking on experience podcast, Dave Cerwinski is going to help your Credit Union regain its competitive advantage over banks. Dave is the Vice President of Corporate Development at Wescom Credit Union. He coordinates Wescom’s involvement in several growth initiatives related to FinTech and Credit Union partnerships. He is also President of Wescom Resources Group, a CUSO that provides data processing and management services to about 90 other credit unions.  If you’re looking to boost your member experience and digital technology so you can leave banks in the dust, this is the podcast episode for you. 

If you’re at a small Credit Union and are being told “you can’t” because of your asset size, this podcast is for you. Becky Reed, CEO of Lone Star Credit Union, is proving day in and day out that a can-do attitude –– regardless of your asset size –– and a willingness to say “yes” instead of “maybe later” is what you really need to grow in today’s CU Market. We dive in on leveraging CUSOs, embracing a culture of being a “Pioneer” (AKA “BETA”) for innovations in the space, and joining boards and trade organizations. This episode is for all of the small credit unions out there that are feeling overwhelmed. So, If you are trying to grow your Credit Union with a shoestring budget, Becky Reed’s gonna tell you how in this episode of the banking on experience podcast.

60% of CUSO’s are Insurance based and almost all of them have the same thing in common:  They are barely scratching the surface of their potential!  President of Insurance Strategies with Daggett Enterprises, Melanie Munsey, takes us “padawan’s” to school on the ways of the Insurance Force and explains how CU’s are being treated like “second class citizens” when it comes to many of their current protection product partnerships, and how more income, control, and freedom awaits those that have the desire to creatively advocate for their membership and their CU/CUSO!  Tune in to work SMARTER not HARDER and get back what you deserve!