Believe in Banking

In this episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet explore what innovation really means in financial services today. While often equated with technology, innovation in banking is more about impact – solving problems creatively, modernizing the member or customer experience, and building stronger community connections. Their conversation highlights standout examples of innovation in action, including Valley Bank's eye-catching flagship branch in Manhattan that uses digital signage brought to life with GenAI and Civic Credit Union's rapid branch expansion of flexible, community-focused locations across North Carolina. They also address the shift from omnichannel interaction toward optichannel engagement, innovative staffing strategies to support human-centered delivery, and the thoughtful adoption of AI in banking. Altogether, these efforts illustrate how forward-thinking institutions are leveraging innovation for purposeful progress, not just technological transformation. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special guest episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet welcome Jeffrey Martinez, Executive Vice President and Head of Branch Banking at PNC. In their illuminating conversation, Jeffrey shares the story behind PNC's $1.5 billion investment in their branch network and how the bank's continuing commitment to the branch is fueling even more customer connection and institutional growth. From his early banking roots to overseeing 2,200 physical and 22 mobile branches, Jeffrey outlines both the bank's and his personal principles behind creating consistent, high-performing, and meaningful branch experiences and the internal staffing strategies that power them. He describes how his passion for purpose-driven leadership – shaped by both his military service and his start as a teller – drives his approach to activating 15,000+ employees in service to customers and their life's goals. Finally, Jeffrey offers inspiration for banks of all sizes, emphasizing the importance of operational excellence, strategic clarity, and a relentless focus on delivering human-centered experiences that move people forward financially. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In Part 2 of their special guest episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet welcome back Yvonne Garand, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer and Jevonne McLaughlin, Vice President of Brand Marketing, from EastRise Credit Union. In their conversation, Yvonne and Jevonne describe the rebranding process following the merger between New England Federal Credit Union and Vermont State Employees Credit Union. They discuss the process of selecting a new name and the formation of the brand identity for the organization, and how data was key to their decision making and consensus building. Fundamentally, they credit the successful transition to EastRise to their strong commitment to reflecting the values of the merged organization. And finally, Yvonne and Jevonne discuss the evolution of the credit union's culture and reflect on managing change across the organization – a journey grounded in time, trust, and transparency. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special guest episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet welcome Yvonne Garand, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer and Jevonne McLaughlin, Vice President of Brand Marketing, both from EastRise Credit Union. In their dynamic discussion, Gina, Juliet, Yvonne, and Jevonne address the merger of New England Federal Credit Union and Vermont State Employees Credit Union to form Vermont's largest credit union and residential mortgage lender and how EastRise built consensus for a new name and brand transformation. Yvonne and Jevonne talk about how they managed the cultural elements of organizational change and how the credit union achieved member approval for the merger. They discuss the powerful multi-phase communications and engagement strategy to educate members on the merger's benefits and encouraged participation in the voting process. Finally, they address the importance of leveraging member insights to develop a brand strategy and name that would resonate with both legacy member bases and the broader Vermont community. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet discuss challenges and change in the community banking sector. Making up 97% of all financial institutions, community banks and credit unions are purpose-driven institutions, uncovering opportunities to grow through their unique community connections. Their conversation covers M&A activity among community banks and how “mergers of equals” provide for scale and strength to enhance competitive advantage. They talk about locality as a superpower and how younger generations show strong affinity for community banks and credit unions, especially as they seek out advice at the branch. Finally, Gina and Juliet emphasize the importance of investment from the brand to the branch as proven strategies to increase customer acquisition, drive growth, and build loyalty among people in the communities they serve. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special guest episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet welcome Al Dominick, Partner with Cornerstone Advisors, a consulting services firm powered by data to deliver customized results for banks and credit unions. In their lively conversation, Al, Gina, and Juliet discuss the current state of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the banking and credit union sectors, including factors driving the need for scale and the challenges and opportunities for change. They explore the importance of data-driven decision making, employee productivity, and brand development for M&A deal success. They also address Cornerstone's approach to client engagement and discuss how to foster a culture of collaboration to support leaders making change for the better in the banking industry. Finally, they discuss strategies institutions can employ to stay relevant and resilient in a continually evolving environment. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In the year-end episode, the Believe in Banking podcast covers the key trends and themes that have shaped the banking industry in 2024 and are expected to continue in 2025. Conversations between Gina Bleedorn, Juliet D'Ambrosio, and Sean Keathley address the generational shift in banking, finding Gen Z more focused on advisory experiences and driving banks and credit unions to invest heavily in their branch networks to stay relevant. Bringing the brand into the branch remains essential for financial institutions to build loyalty and advocacy with customers, and a bigger focus on branding or rebranding is shown to be a core tenet for success in financial services. Finally, no December episode would be complete without addressing the rise of generative AI that is set to transform the banking industry by automating routine tasks and freeing up bankers to focus on higher-value human relationships. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet discuss the resurgence of investment in the bank branch and Adrenaline's new report “The Branch Advantage: Essential Retail Strategies for Banking Industry Leaders.” Their conversation covers how major banks like PNC, Chase, Bank of America, and others are announcing significant investments in branch expansion and renovation, indicating a broader industry trend. They spotlight three examples of financial institutions featured in the report – VeraBank, Virginia Credit Union, and Guaranty Bank – and how successful branch transformation strategies helped each institution gain advantage out of this critical channel. Essential to this success was defining a “North Star” experience, which identifies a clear vision and purpose for the branches across the network. Finally, they discuss original industry data that finds that banks and credit unions that invest in branch transformation are seeing significant returns, including higher deposit growth relative to the market. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet spotlight news about how major banks like Chase, PNC, and Bank of America are making significant investments in expanding and renovating their branch networks, demonstrating the continued vitality of the branch channel. They also announce the upcoming report “The Payoff & Process of Branch Investment: Maximizing ROI for Financial Brands,” coming in November, which explores what makes branch investment successful. One critical component of ensuring ROI for the in-person banking channel is branch marketing. Effective branch marketing leverages proximity to deliver marketing messages that strengthen relationships with customers or members, drive awareness of the financial brand, and promote local growth to ensure institutional success. Gina and Juliet discuss best practices in branch marketing, including employing a zonal framework for design and merchandising, which spotlights the right place, right message and right delivery for branch marketing and how targeted messaging is the most effective means for creating customer connections. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special guest episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet welcome Andrew Hovet, Managing Director at Curinos, a data and insights company that helps financial institutions make better business decisions through advanced analytics, market intelligence, and customer data. In their dynamic discussion, Andrew, Gina, and Juliet discuss how banks and credit unions can leverage data to make informed decisions about their branch network, including where to locate, consolidate, or expand to optimize market presence and growth potential. They also address the essential role of the branch for banking experiences. Even as total visits decline, branches are places customers rely on for advice and guidance on their financial needs. For institutions, branches serve as a key driver of brand awareness and high-quality sales opportunities. And finally, they discuss the need for banks to adapt their branch staffing and operations to focus less on transactional services and more on valuable financial consultation and solutions. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet discuss opportunities and optimism in the banking industry. Following years of retail closures and predictions about the death of the branch, the reality in 2024 is that not only is the bank branch not dead, but in just the last year, the U.S. added more net new branches for the first time in a decade. Branches are just one of the ways banks are seizing opportunities for growth, but there are many reasons for optimism in banking. Positive economic news, good business prospects and an improved rate environment have buoyed banking this year. Nearly 9 out of 10 Americans with a bank account report they're ‘very satisfied' or ‘satisfied' with their primary bank and the rate environment is improving prospects for banks and consumers, alike. On the opportunity front, M&A continues to drive momentum in the banking sector, with expectations high for continued expansion, both in the short- and long-term. From ways that consumers engage with banking brands and in branches, Gina and Juliet have a lively conversation about the rich opportunities for financial institutions, especially for community banks and credit unions who are priming their organizations for growth. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet discuss the resilience and enduring relevance of the of the branch. Fresh off the stage from her keynote at Future Branches, Gina discusses insights from the industry's changemakers like Chase and what she heard from banking leaders across the country about the challenges they face with their own branch networks. They talk about the importance of renovating and right-sizing existing branch networks, as well as how banks bring their brand to life through digital and physical experiences. Juliet spotlights the latest data that shows the significance of physical branches for younger generations, like Gen Z and Millennials, who still value face-to-face interactions with experts and show that by visiting their local branches weekly. Finally, they both discuss the role of strategy in deploying effective marketing and merchandising at the branch and how communications tools like digital signage can make retail communications more meaningful for adapting to customer needs. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet look back through the library of episodes to shine a spotlight the enlightening information and insights from Sean Keathley, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Adrenaline. Going back at the launch of the podcast in 2020, during the height of Covid, all the way through early 2024, they pull out some of the best thinking from a truly rich repository that spans the most change the banking industry has experienced since its inception. In his years hosting the podcast, Sean brought more than a wealth of knowledge about the banking industry, he shared his passion for people – those serving and being served by community banks and credit unions across the country. His unique ability to take even the most complex financial topics and present them in a way that everyone can understand is one hallmarks of the podcast. Finally, they share how Sean is the ultimate believer in banking and it's a legacy that Gina and Juliet are proud to continue. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet take on the topic of bank and credit union branding. They discuss their upcoming speaking sessions at the Financial Brand Forum in Las Vegas from May 20-22, and spotlight the new Adrenaline report, the “ROI of Rebranding: Best Practices to Measure Business Value for Financial Brands” available on adrenalinex.com. This report features original research and leading insights that show the power of rebranding in driving and delivering growth for financial brands. Highlighting three case studies of recent rebrands – Bravera Bank, Everwise Credit Union and Tower Federal Credit Union – Gina and Juliet discuss how these organizations made the most of their rebranding efforts, including prioritizing brand differentiation to stand out in the marketplace. Finally, they discuss how to recognize when it's time for a rebrand or refresh and ways that the most successful brands embrace brand change. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special guest episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Gina and Juliet welcome Michael Bell, Partner and Leader of the Financial Institutions Practice at Honigman, LLP, where he has become the nationwide leader and go-to legal adviser for credit unions seeking scale. In their lively conversation on M&A in financial services, Michael discusses the growth outlook for community financial institutions and ways that mergers and acquisitions help further the credit union mission and movement. He shares his belief that credit unions and community banks are ‘kissing cousins' – both sharing the same passion for serving customers and communities and facing similar regulatory and competitive challenges. Finally, they discuss data-driven decision making and the role of research in guiding growth strategies for community financial institutions, whether it's for M&A, branding or branching. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode, Adrenaline's Chief Brand Officer Juliet D'Ambrosio joins Gina Bleedorn as the new cohost of the Believe in Banking podcast, as Sean Keathley, the former CEO of Adrenaline, moves to an advisory capacity to focus on his health. In this discussion, Gina and Juliet explore artificial intelligence in banking and the opportunities it brings to transform banking experiences. They note how the past year has been pivotal as the next wave of generative AI rolls out with powerful tools, like ChatGPT. Their conversation covers current uses of AI for banking, such as chatbots for customer service, and outlines the operational and productivity gains for banks that adopt AI. They address how banking is already an AI frontrunner with the financial industry leading the way for AI adoption, with the potential to automate anywhere between 20% and 40% of banking tasks. Finally, Gina and Juliet discuss how artificial intelligence can free bankers from the rote aspects of their roles and allow them to focus on higher-value conversations and connections with customers. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In episode two of our two-part Believe in Banking podcast series on growth, Sean and Gina discuss the evolving expectations in banking – from generational demands for advisory experiences to neighborhood variations – all impacting how the branch functions. Their conversation covers how generational life stage differences offer an opportunity for banks to step up and serve, especially as Millennials and Gen Z visit the physical bank branch more frequently and Gen X enters their prime earning years. They address the need for financial institutions to adapt to these changing conditions and reimagine their retail delivery. They also share best practices of financial institutions that have successfully updated and modernized their branches by starting with a strategy and establishing a new North Star experience, resulting in branches with the right bankers, the right design, in the right neighborhoods. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In episode one of a two-part Believe in Banking podcast series on growth, Sean and Gina kick off the new year with a discussion around how financial institutions are increasing their influence to reach more consumers where they are. From the rising momentum around M&A to organic growth and branching, financial institutions are looking to boost their competitive edge by becoming bigger and stronger. In this renewed environment, even new bank formation is on the rise. Their conversation covers the significance of marquis events like Bank Director's “Acquire or Be Acquired” conference where Adrenaline's Bethany Lewis will be presenting. Going further, they discuss new data on CEO confidence and its role in driving deals forward in 2024. Finally, they touch on employer brand strategy as a key way to onboard and retain employees and emphasize the importance of rebranding to attract both new customers and talent alike. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In part two of the special guest episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Sean and Gina welcome back Dan Rousseve, Chief Information Officer, and Angie Dvorak, Chief Marketing & Growth Officer, of Everwise Credit Union, formerly Teachers Credit Union. They continue the discussion on the credit union's rebranding journey, including challenges they faced from Covid to change in leadership, both of which had the potential to stall their progress. But they persevered, knowing what a refreshed brand could do for their organization. When it was unveiled, the new brand Everwise was widely embraced by employees and members alike, and represented a way to re-found the credit union with renewed purpose. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special guest episode of the Believe in Banking podcast, Sean and Gina welcome Dan Rousseve, Chief Information Officer, and Angie Dvorak, Chief Marketing & Growth Officer, of Everwise Credit Union, formerly Teachers Credit Union. In their dynamic discussion, Dan and Angie address the credit union's storied history and the challenges of operating as Teachers Credit Union as they expanded their membership base beyond their educator origins. The conversation covers the important role that formal and informal research played in building consensus among the C-Suite toward a name change and touches on the growth potential with their new name, Everwise. Finally, they highlight just how essential it is to have an ownable brand name that is both inclusive and unique. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In episode two of our Believe in Banking podcast series on Gen Z, Sean and Gina welcome back Adrenaline's Chief Brand Officer, Juliet D'Ambrosio. Armed with knowledge about this myth-busting generation, the three discuss how banks and credit unions are adapting to meet the needs of Gen Z. They provide examples of institutions like UniWyo Credit Union, AMOCO Credit Union and Guaranty Bank that have created updated experiences to engage people throughout their life stages and share meaningful insights about how modern and approachable branch design welcomes in Gen Z into a new banking relationship. Finally, they discuss the importance of branding and how banks and credit unions can lean on their brands to connect with Gen Z and all other generations, as well. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In episode one of a two-part Believe in Banking podcast series, Sean and Gina tackle the topic on the minds of every banker out there – the influence and impact of Gen Z on banking and beyond. They invite on Adrenaline's Chief Brand Officer, Juliet D'Ambrosio, for a dynamic discussion in advance of the new report from Adrenaline called “Gen Z and the Future of Finance: A Generational Guide for Banking Leaders,” available in October. Their conversation covers what makes Gen Z such a myth-busting generation, addressing everything from how they think about money to what they think about brands. Although they have all the internet's information right at their fingertips, they seek out financial experts and want human interaction in their banking relationships. Learn more about how banking can meet the moment with the generation that came of age in in economic uncertainty and recession. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode, Sean and Gina share timely insights from speaking and participation at the financial industry's leading conferences. Specifically, they discuss demands on banking and credit union leaders relating to their branch networks and how planning for saving and growing at the same time is essential for institutions of all sizes. To make the most of opportunities that branches bring, many institutions have been active in either acquiring small networks or building new locations in growth markets. Addressing the latest generational data, they discuss how people from all generations are seeking in-person advisory services at the branch as everyday transactions go digital. Finally, they look at examples that range from Chase to Guaranty bank in Mississippi and the powerful combination of the right market with the right staffing and the right physical presence. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special summer episode on banking innovation, Sean and Gina look at change in financial services at the institutional and industry level. With data and insights gathered from the financial services sector's most influential gatherings, they discuss new ways that banks and credit unions usher in upgrades to meet customer expectations, while driving more efficiencies in the branch network. They discuss deploying digital solutions and ITMs that go beyond omnichannel, into a total experience journey, and share examples of forward-thinking organizations focused on future-proofing and growing their institutions. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special episode, Sean and Gina welcome back Dave Ehlis, President and CEO of Bravera Bank. In part two of their discussion, Dave talks about how the brand change the bank prioritized would come to life inside their branches and across their growing network – from smaller more rural branches to larger ones in bigger cities. He talks about the power of optimism and how instead of fixating on the downsides of change, leadership across their organization focused instead on what could go right, and how committing to investing in manifesting this brand to branch change would pay off now and in the future, in the people and places Bravera would serve. Finally, Dave shares his deep belief in banking and how he sees Bravera's commitment to customers all around, supporting them throughout their lives. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special episode, Sean and Gina welcome Dave Ehlis, President and CEO of Bravera Bank, a regional banking leader in the Northern Plains. In this conversation, Dave discusses the bank's rich history and new challenges they faced as they continued their path to growth. When the financial institution formerly known as American Bank Center was expanding their reach, they needed a more ownable name as they moved into new markets. Dave describes the decision-making, change management and consensus-building needed for such a large-scale institutional change, and ultimately how a rename and a rebrand to Bravera brought out a tremendous amount of pride for their customers and communities. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode, Sean and Gina look at two influential industry reports and how they provide a snapshot of our current moment in banking. First, they discuss the Edelman Trust Barometer, an annual report that provides insights into the influence of trust across our institutions and industries. While this year's report continues to show an undercurrent of mistrust among consumers, business maintains its position as the most trusted sector in society, giving bank brands a real opportunity to deepen relationships. Next, they bring on Adrenaline's Chief Brand Officer Juliet D'Ambrosio to discuss the Financial Industry Pulse Report, which highlights the importance of brand for building trusting relationships, something really relevant in light of recent bank failures. Using current examples of brands meeting the moment, this lively conversation highlights the essential role of brand as a business strategy for success.  This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special episode, Sean and Gina return to conversations about the fundamentals for financial institutions acting with trust and transparency that they've explored on the Believe in Banking podcast. They address key ways banks and credit unions can increase consumer trust in banking by building relationships that demonstrate their commitment to community and how trust provides the foundation of the community banking system. Finally, they discuss how traditional financial institutions have a real advantage over challenger banks, especially as they combine consumer trust with creative ways of doing good. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In the “Believe in Banking Podcast: The Growth Edition,” Sean and Gina discuss ways that banks and credit unions are meeting the industry's the imperative to grow. They discuss how financial institutions determine the right formats and the right markets, including hub-and-spoke clusters with flagship locations in high opportunity areas and smaller branches, ATMs and ITMs dotting the network for support. They address needed investments from the brand to the branch to maximize opportunities and discuss the critical role of a financial institution's brand as a differentiator, priming banks and credit unions for change as they expand their influence. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In the inaugural episode of the Believe in Banking podcast for 2023, Sean and Gina highlight industry insights on where banking has been and where it's heading in the new year, including takeaways from speaking sessions at two of banking's premiere conferences – The Financial Brand Forum and Future Branches. From the importance of brand in driving business to the future of retail delivery, they discuss what banking leaders are thinking as they set their priorities for 2023. They also share key takeaways from Adrenaline's original research, where 75% of industry leaders agree that brand critically impacts their organization's business value. The research finds that more than half of the industry is seeking a total brand transformation and nearly 50% reporting that “bridging digital and human delivery” is their top priority. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special year-end episode, Sean and Gina return to some illuminating discussions with banking leaders featured on the Believe in Banking podcast in 2022. From an institution evolving for its customers and communities to women moving up the ranks into banking's C-suite, these conversations reveal how banking is at the forefront of change. The podcast features David Trautman, chairman and CEO of Park National Bank, who talks about his regional bank uniting twelve autonomous affiliates under one refreshed brand and how that change furthered their heart for service. We also return to an essential conversation with Terrie Spiro and Jennifer Docherty, co-founders of Bank on Women who provide information and insights on having more women in higher positions of power and how that results in better banking. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In part two of the “Biggest Banking Trends of 2022” special episode, Sean and Gina take stock of what's on the minds of banking leaders in these unprecedented times. They look at ways banks and credit unions are making banking better for people as they navigate post-pandemic uncertainty, especially through a focus on financial wellness. Institutions are also making headway by looking at their organizations through the lens of a challenger, understanding that change doesn't have to come through fintech-style innovation. Future-focused banks are successfully leveraging their existing strengths, like locality, and strengthening them with smaller formats and hybrid tools like ITMs. So, as banks get more efficient, they also can amplify customer experience at the same time. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special episode, we look at some of this year's biggest banking trends. From meeting consumer's unique needs to scaling for strength, Sean and Gina discuss how banks are delivering in our post-pandemic era. One important reality coming out of COVID is how people of all generations are prioritizing financial wellness, and banks, especially community financial institutions, are in the perfect position to provide education and support. Another major theme from 2022 is the idea of M&A leading to serving more and serving better. That means banks are assessing formats across their whole branch network. Whether kickstarted by M&A or simply though organic expansion, banks are getting more efficient through downsizing while looking like they're upsizing, especially when it comes to customer experience. A keen eye on their brand is an important element of delivering that ideal branch banking experience. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

As industry conferences return live and in-person, we're back on the speaking circuit and learning anew what's on the minds of banking leaders. In this episode, Sean and Gina discuss themes coming out of major banking conferences like Future Branches and how the war for talent is presenting real challenges for banks and credit unions in our new pandemic normal. They dig into recent data on branches and find that the numbers of closures don't tell the full story of institutions rationalizing and reinvesting in their overall network – where a decrease in branches can actually create a net increase in experience. Armed with real-world examples, they discuss innovative ways that institutions are getting more efficient while upgrading the service to their clients at the same time and discuss how banks embrace innovations like digital solutions and ITMs to future-proof their organizations. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In part two of their conversation, Sean and Gina welcome back Terrie Spiro, co-founder, founding director and chair, and Jennifer Docherty, co-founder, founding director and chief executive officer of Bank on Women. They build on the ideas shared in part one – that qualified women in leadership positions in banking make both individual institutions and the industry as a whole better. In this episode, Terrie and Jenn explore some of the skills that women bring that improve their organizations, including leadership styles and emotional intelligence that make them more effective leaders in turbulent times. They share some of their real world experiences and practical tools for supporting women, like mentorship, sponsorship and allyship, that will help elevate women to leadership positions and ultimately foster greater female recruitment and retention in banking. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In part one of this special episode, Sean and Gina welcome Terrie Spiro, co-founder, founding director and chair, and Jennifer Docherty, co-founder, founding director and chief executive officer of Bank on Women. Dedicated to women's leadership in community banking, Bank on Women strives to increase the number of qualified women serving on the C-Suite and in the boardroom – which will make banking better for all and foster opportunities for women now and in the future. Armed with powerful data, Terrie and Jenn share how banks with diverse representation in leadership benefit from increased performance and bottom line improvement. They discuss the “leaky pipeline” of women entering leadership positions and tools to support and sustain institutional and industrywide change. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Over the last several years, there has been a ton of talk about the impact of outsiders like fintechs on banking and ways community institutions have to keep up. In this episode, Sean and Gina flip the script a little and reframe the idea of what it means to be a challenger in banking today. What are the ways community financial institutions and regional banks are leading? For these banks, embracing a challenger mindset means going beyond technology tools and focuses on other ways of innovating and competing. With examples in branch and mobile banking, the discussion uncovers ways that banks dig into their core, double down on their brand and meet people where they are to deliver experiences they want. And customer satisfaction scores show the approach is working. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

One of the buzzworthy themes across the financial services sector is how to make banking better. With fintechs continuing to make inroads into banking's customer base, what does making the experience better for the customer look like? In this episode, Sean and Gina share the latest information and insights on people's top financial priorities in 2022 and explore ways that banks and credit unions are meeting customers where they are – from mobile to the branch, and even on TikTok. With trends set in motion during the pandemic, Sean and Gina discuss the pressing need for financial wellness across generations and how banks are stepping up providing new tools to empower consumers no matter where they are in their financial journey. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

As the economy continues its pandemic recovery, financial institutions of all sizes are looking for effective ways to compete. In this episode, Sean and Gina discuss leaning on brand for growth. Whether you're a financial institution scaling through mergers or expanding operations into new markets, considering the implications of your brand in people's minds is foundational to your success. Are you looking at brand early enough in M&A due diligence? Do you have the right name as you move into new markets? What is your strategic plan moving forward? To discuss credit union growth, Sean and Gina bring into the conversation Adrenaline's managing director of strategy Juliet D'Ambrosio who just presented the CUNA Conference. Juliet discusses the power of the credit union value proposition and ways for brands to look outside of banking for brand best practices and inspiration for the industry. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

From mergers and acquisitions to branching into new markets, banking's major focus post-pandemic is on growth. In this episode, Sean and Gina discuss this desire for scale amidst great uncertainty. With M&A activity hitting its highest levels since 2007, deals are happening all around, but it's not just big banks competing for dominance. Community banks and credit unions are looking at expansion through acquisition. But we're also seeing mergers of equals, banks buying or partnering with fintechs, fintechs buying or partnering with banks, and niche and large technology enablers leveraging their specialties in new and novel ways. Find out how – especially for smaller and midsized financial institutions – it's more important than ever implement strategies that help community banks serve more and serve better. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In Part 2 of their conversation, Sean and Gina welcome back David Trautman, chairman and CEO of Park National Bank. They discuss how a realignment and rebrand provided the bank the perfect platform for Park's spirit of service, giving a streamlined and simplified brand for Park's people to rally around. He addressed how launching during COVID continued on a tradition of steadiness in the storm for a bank that has always thrived during even the most chaotic times. Finally, David reveals why he believes so deeply in banking and how Park remains so committed to supporting people in all aspects of their lives. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In Believe in Banking's first podcast of the new year, Sean and Gina welcome David Trautman, chairman and CEO of Park National Bank. Their rich conversation covers Park's unique origin story and how the bank's efforts at unifying under one umbrella yielded some significant advantages for their growing brand as they expanded into new communities. Building consensus to shift how the bank was doing business – moving from a more autonomous model to a more unified one – was a fundamental change, but what it didn't alter was the heart of service at the core of the brand. In part one of their discussion, David addresses how Park captured and unified the bank's independent spirit and how they continue to foster that beating heart of service as they help people and their communities. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In our final year-end special episode, we revisit topics that defined the year. Sean and Gina discuss the rise of Purpose Driven Banking in 2021 and how it sets a new standard for the industry moving forward. A term coined by Accenture, this approach to banking helps financial institutions mean more to their customers and members, truly living up to their essential role in people's lives. Simultaneously, banks and credit unions that embrace a deeper sense of purpose find fresh opportunities and expanding influence. Tied to a renewed sense of purpose is community-building in community banking and new ways of thinking about serving – because community represents more than just geography. Finally, our hosts provide a preview of our first episode in 2022, featuring a community banking leader who will kick off the New Year in style. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this special episode, we take a look back at the trends and topics that defined 2021. Sean and Gina discuss how banking provided short-term solutions to challenges and what opportunities opened up because of the pandemic that will endure. They spoke specifically about banking's balance of technology and human consultation, and the staff that it takes to be at the right place at the right time for customers and members. With clear eyes, the two hosts all but predicted the increasing deployment of hybrid solutions like ITMs and smaller format branches that are transforming the consumer banking experience post-pandemic. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode, Sean and Gina discuss what's on the minds of banking and credit union leaders as they face the headwinds that are still present after a year and a half of pandemic life. With the need for profitability and fintech nipping at community banking's heels, how to continue to serve customers and meet expectations often means new partnerships. Whether it's a fintech collaboration like the one that delivered Chime to the marketplace or a financial wellness pairing, like Regina King and Wells Fargo teaming up to help serve the underbanked, when banks and credit unions look at new and novel ways to meet the people at the point of need, banking builds on the trusting relationship financial institutions have with their customers and communities. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode, Sean and Gina discuss some of the challenges facing banking in our post-pandemic future. Most notably is staffing as banks and credit unions meets consumer demand for efficient transactions via updated digital options while still having branches close by for those more complex and consultative banking needs. Attracting higher-skilled bankers requires a real investment for banks and a commitment to move beyond traditional teller-based banking models. Banking's growth mandate means banks must balance ways to grow in new markets and be more efficient in more legacy markets, providing a blend of tools and advice consumers need to spend and save better. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In Part 4 of our special summer series revisiting our discussions with banking leaders, we're spotlighting more community-first approaches from Jimmy Stead, Chief Consumer Banking Officer at Frost Bank, a super-regional bank based in Texas, and Todd Nagel, President and CEO of IncredibleBank, one of the country's first national online community banks. These two leaders describe how their culture and core values are ingrained in every aspect of their business and how their commitment to their customer and community is a natural outgrowth of empowering employees to live the brand every day. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode, Sean and Gina discuss optimism and opportunities for banking as we move into a post-pandemic recovery. From the rise of small business driving demand for commercial loans to population shifts away from urban cores, how financial institutions respond to changing consumer lifestyles and needs-states depends largely on their understanding of these new realities. Increasingly critical to post-pandemic banking is the smart utilization of data. In particular, leveraging people mobility data empowers banks and credit unions to make better decisions about growth, going where the people are, and the people are increasingly found in the suburbs and exurbs. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In Part 3 of our special summer series where we revisit our discussions with banking leaders, we're spotlighting the community-first commitment of community banking. In this episode, we talk with Brad Tidwell, President and CEO of VeraBank and Ryan Kilpatrick, Executive Vice President and Chief Brand and Communications Officer from Origin Bank about the heart of service at the core of their community financial institutions. Both leaders discuss building opportunity out of that core purpose and how serving their communities through challenges like COVID, creates even more connection and growth. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this episode, Sean and Gina discuss purpose-driven banking and the intersection of consumer need and banking opportunity. The economic impacts of the pandemic and its aftermath have spotlighted the critical role that banking – and more broadly, financial services – plays in people's everyday lives. Banking is a service that everyone needs, and now with an industry at a tipping point of disruption spurred on by consumer expectation and demand, traditional financial institutions are embracing new ways of doing business that are moving the industry and people's lives forward. With consultation at their core and products that answer consumer need like PNC's low cash mode, Fifth Third's early pay and TD Bank's essential checking for the underbanked, banks expanding the ways they serve with the power of purpose. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In our special summer series, we're revisiting some of our illuminating discussions with banking leaders featured on the Believe in Banking podcast. In this episode we're talking technology with Jimmy Stead, Chief Consumer Banking Officer at Frost Bank; Luvleen Sidhu, Founder and CEO of BM Technologies; and Todd Nagel, President and CEO of IncredibleBank. These leaders talk about their individual approaches to banking technology focused on simplifying and streamlining transactions, but more importantly on making people's lives better. Whether financial institutions build it from the ground up or partner with another company, having a digital and mobile strategy in banking is now a must for all banks and credit unions – even if they don't have the big budgets of the big banks. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm