C.U. on the Show

In this episode of C.U. on the Show, Doug English welcomes Michael Bell back for an eye-opening conversation about a hidden trend in the credit union world: acquiring non-bank businesses. Discover how credit unions are strengthening member relationships and diversifying income streams by buying companies like title agencies, insurance firms, and real estate businesses. If you're looking for a growth strategy that goes beyond traditional banking, you'll want to stream this episode.Check out the ACT Advisors Blog for a written summary of this episode!Want to learn more about Doug English and ACT Advisors? Visit Home - ACT Advisors®Email doug@act-advisors.com if you have an idea for a future guest or topic.

In this episode of CU On the Show, host Doug English speaks with Mitch Rutledge, CEO and co-founder of Vertice AI, and Fred Eisel, CEO of Vizo Financial. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the credit union landscape, particularly in the face of declining membership, limited resources, and the push for personalized financial services. Learn how data-driven decisions can be the key to sustainable growth.Check out the ACT Advisors Blog for a written summary of this episode!Want to learn more about Doug English and ACT Advisors? Visit Home - ACT Advisors®Email doug@act-advisors.com if you have an idea for a future guest or topic.

In this episode of CU On the Show, host Doug English speaks with Mitch Rutledge, CEO and co-founder of Vertus AI, and Fred Eisel, CEO of Vizo Financial. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the credit union landscape—particularly in the face of declining membership, limited resources, and the push for personalized financial services. Learn how data-driven decisions can be the key to sustainable growth.Check out the ACT Advisors Blog for a written summary of this episode!Want to learn more about Doug English and ACT Advisors? Visit https://act-advisors.comIf you have an idea for a future podcast guest or topic, email doug@act-advisors.com

When rapid growth slows, and headwinds grow stronger, how do credit union leaders pivot with purpose? In this episode of CU On The Show, Jefferson Financial Federal Credit Union CEO Mark Rosa and Olden Lane CEO Mike Macchiarola share a candid, behind-the-scenes look at his journey from 20+ years of successful growth through mergers to the bold decision to be acquired. The result? A powerful reflection on leadership, humility, and the evolving role of credit unions in a changing economic landscape.Check out the ACT Advisors blog for a written summary of this episode!Want to learn more about Doug English and ACT Advisors? Visit https://act-advisors.comIf you have an idea for a future podcast guest or topic, email Doug - doug@act-advisors.com

What really drives CEO compensation in credit unions? It's more than just the numbers. In this episode of CU On The Show, JP O'Connor, executive compensation consultant at Park Compensation Consulting, joins Doug English to reveal how board backgrounds, financial experiences, and biases influence executive pay decisions. Check out the ACT Advisors Blog for a written summary of this episode!Want to learn more about Doug English and ACT Advisors? Visit Home - ACT Advisors®Have an idea for a future podcast guest or topic? Email doug@act-advisors.com

In this episode of CU On The Show, Doug English welcomes back Todd Spiczenski to give an exclusive preview of the 2025 Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC)—set to be one of the biggest and most impactful events for credit union leaders in 2025. With record-breaking attendance numbers, a sold-out exhibit hall, and a powerhouse lineup of keynote speakers, GAC 2025 is a must-attend event for credit union leaders. Want to see a written version of this episode? Visit How GAC 2025 Is Breaking Records - And Why You Need to Be There - ACT Advisors®

Acquiring a bank is no small feat, and when two credit union CEOs with over three decades of experience in the industry sit down to discuss their journeys, the insights are invaluable. In this episode of C.U. On The Show, Doug English interviews Bob Steensma, CEO of Five Star Credit Union, and David Southall, CEO of Innovations Credit Union. Both leaders share their strategies, challenges, and lessons learned from navigating bank acquisitions.

In this episode of “C.U. On The Show” Doug English sits down with Steven Kozlowski, associate professor of finance at Fairfield University, and Sam Brownell, founder of CU Collaborate, to explore the complex dynamics of credit union mergers. Steven shares groundbreaking research on how merger motivations, whether distress-driven or voluntary—impact members and institutions, while Sam provides actionable insights on using data to maximize member benefits. Together, they discuss the opportunities, challenges, and moral considerations of mergers, offering valuable takeaways for credit union leaders navigating consolidation in today's landscape. 

In this episode of CU On the Show, Doug English explores how credit unions are branching into niche markets to meet the evolving needs of their communities. Joining Doug are John Janclaes, Rob Hoyle, and David Barone, who share insights into how Vantage West Credit Union, in partnership with Nymbus, developed Hustl—a specialized brand designed to support skilled freelancers. This episode reveals how Hustl emerged as an innovative solution, offering flexible, tailored financial services for the growing gig economy. Here's how credit unions can unlock growth potential by exploring digital branding. 

In this episode of CU On the Show, host Doug English is joined by board governance experts Jennie Boden, CEO of Quantum Governance, and Lynette Smith, chief engagement officer and former credit union CEO. Together, they dive into the crucial role of board governance in driving credit union success. From creating a Governance Action Plan to building a strategic, forward-thinking board, Jennie and Lynette share actionable insights on how credit unions can evolve their governance practices to support sustainable growth. Whether you're a board member, CEO, or credit union professional, this episode offers valuable takeaways on strengthening governance to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. 

In this episode of "CU On the Show," host Doug English sits down with credit union leaders Jenny Vipperman and Jennifer Kouchis from ORNL Federal Credit Union to explore how bold ideas are transforming the future of credit unions. They discuss the importance of long-term stewardship, the role of innovation in serving underserved communities, and the need to redefine revenue models to align with member-centric values. Listen to learn how these forward-thinking leaders are using technology, partnerships, and strategic shifts to expand access, improve financial wellness, and ensure the sustainability of the credit union movement.  

In this episode of CU on the Show, host Doug English talks with John Janclaes, President of Nymbus CUSO, about how credit unions can drive growth through digital branding, strategic partnerships, and modern technology. John shares real-world examples of credit unions successfully launching niche digital brands to meet diverse member needs and discusses the importance of shifting from a vendor mindset to a partnership mindset. Tune in to learn how Nymbus is helping credit unions innovate, grow, and thrive in today's digital-first world. 

In this episode of CU On the Show, host Doug English welcomes Charles Shanley, a veteran executive recruiter with over 25 years of experience in the credit union and banking industries. Charles shares his journey from a family of headhunters to establishing Shanley Search Partners, where he specializes in placing top-tier talent in credit unions across the country.  Tune in as they discuss the current trends in credit union leadership, including the rise in retirements, the increasing importance of cultural fit, and the key qualities boards are looking for in today's CEOs. Charles also offers valuable insights on how credit unions can retain top talent in a competitive landscape, emphasizing the importance of innovation, vision, and non-economic rewards.  Whether you're a board member, CEO, or aspiring executive, this episode is packed with actionable advice on navigating the complexities of executive recruitment in the credit union sector. Don't miss out on learning from one of the industry's most experienced recruiters! 

Join us on "CU On the Show" for an enlightening conversation with Heather McKissick, CEO of CUES, as she shares her journey and leadership philosophy in the credit union industry. Heather delves into the importance of dynamic leadership, balancing change with mission stability, and innovative approaches to leadership development. Discover practical strategies for fostering effective leadership, embracing change, and ensuring long-term success in the rapidly evolving financial landscape. Tune in to learn more! 

In this episode of CU On the Show, Brian Scott, EVP and Chief Growth Officer at PSCU Co-op Solutions, discusses how generative AI is transforming credit unions. Learn how AI enhances customer experience, fraud prevention, and operational efficiency. Discover practical applications and the importance of clean data and fintech collaboration. Tune in for actionable insights to revolutionize your credit union with AI. 

Join host Doug English on "CU On the Show" as he sits down with fintech and credit union expert Samantha Paxson. This episode dives into the transformative potential of fintech partnerships for credit unions, exploring strategies for breaking away from traditional, risk-averse approaches to become dynamic, member-centric organizations. Samantha shares insights on utilizing cutting-edge technologies like generative AI and cloud-native platforms to enhance financial solutions and meet evolving consumer expectations.    Discover actionable strategies to overcome common challenges and learn how integrating consumer-focused innovations can propel your credit union forward.  

In this episode of CU On the Show, Doug English speaks with Todd Fanning of GreenState Credit Union and Mike Macchiarola from Olden Lane, diving into how subordinated debt has become a key strategy for credit union growth and community impact. They share insights from GreenState's experience leveraging this financial tool for expansive growth and initiating a significant social bond for minority homeownership.  This conversation is essential for anyone in the credit union sector, investors with a focus on social impact, or individuals curious about innovative financial strategies. Discover the transformative role of subordinated debt in supporting both organizational growth and meaningful community development. 

In a world where technological advancements continue to shape and redefine the landscape of  credit unions, the question of how technology can humanize culture is not just pertinent but essential. In this detailed exploration with Dr. Troy Hall, a best-selling author and expert in talent retention and cohesion culture, we delve into the ways technology can enhance cultural dynamics within credit unions, fostering a more engaged, inclusive, and productive workplace.  Join us for an enlightening discussion that promises not only to inform but inspire you to view technology as a catalyst for cultural enrichment within your organization. 

The credit union movement's biggest annual advocacy event, the Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) hosted by America's Credit Unions, will occur this year from March 3 to 7 in Washington, D.C. and draw an estimated 6,000 attendees.  Doug English sits with Todd Spiczenski, Chief Association Services Officer at America's Credit Unions, to discuss what changes and improvements attendees can expect and how they can make the most of their time between Hill hikes, networking, and breakout sessions. Tune in for a sneak preview into how GAC's getting bigger and better than ever with an expanded Welcome Center, more exhibitors, and new post-event virtual resources. Stream the episode.

Achieving unprecedented growth takes strategic planning, ongoing examination, and access to the information required to consider bold ideas and pursue opportunities.  In this episode, guest Michael Bell, partner and chair of the Financial Institutions Practices Group at Honigman, LLP, sheds light on non-organic growth options that may be unfamiliar to many credit unions. These strategies have the potential to impact growth and broaden fields of membership significantly. Stream the episode to learn how strategic acquisitions and changing charters can play a crucial role in helping optimize your credit union's scalability.

Exceptional leaders play a critical role in any organization's success. Effective leadership can help credit unions navigate new challenges, innovate, and get results while creating an environment that aligns with the expectations of modern employees. Without it there is a significant risk to organizations and the broader credit union movement. Laurie Maddalena, CEO of Envision Excellence, returns to the show to share the three pillars of exceptional leadership and how they can help propel the credit union movement forward. According to Laurie, in a time when staying relevant means staying adaptable, leaders who fail to balance these three critical pillars not only risk their relevance but also the foundation of their organization. Stream the show to learn the three pillars, what makes leaders ineffective or effective, and actionable steps credit union leaders can implement today.

With funding pressures and the high rate of deposits across credit unions, leaders must find creative ways to generate capital. Credit unions need capital to maintain good financial standing and pursue long-term strategic plans, such as acquiring another financial institution, undergoing a digital transformation, and more.  In this episode, Doug is joined by returning guest Bill Paton, vice president of lending, loan participations, and subordinated debt at Alloya Corporate Federal Credit Union, and Patrick Roberts, chief revenue officer at MountainSeed. They discuss their new sale-leaseback partnership, which offers a non-dilutive solution that can help credit unions generate immediate capital by leveraging existing real estate assets. Stream the episode to learn how credit unions can unlock hidden capital and potential within their branches with a sale-leaseback, the benefits of these transactions, and when credit unions should consider the option. Listen now.

As we approach year-end, there are several tax-optimization strategies credit union executives and recent retirees may consider based on their current financial situation. Credit union leaders often have complex compensation and retirement benefit packages that lend themselves to creative solutions that may help them save more money or manage their tax liability. Wes Johnson, CFP® professional and ACT Advisors partner and financial planner, joins Doug to discuss these strategies and offer insights to inspire and support credit union executives at any stage. Stream the episode to learn more.

Credit unions are joining forces in the first-of-its-kind strategic investment fund, Curql. This innovative fund helps credit unions partner with and invest in fintech that will help drive the credit union movement forward, effectively competing with larger financial institutions that have unlimited research and development dollars. Guest Brian Lauer is the general counsel of the National Association of Credit Union Service Organizations (NACUSO) and partner with the law firm Messick Lauer & Smith P.C. For over 10 years, he has helped credit unions better serve their members and provide innovative products and services through credit union service organizations (CUSOs). He's advancing those efforts with Curql, which combines credit union partners' investments into fintech designed specifically for credit unions to deliver vetted solutions more efficiently. Learn more about how the innovative ideas in this fund are reshaping the movement and paving the way for a more vibrant and customer-centric financial ecosystem.

In recent years, credit unions have made significant strides in enhancing their digital banking platforms and addressing challenges posed by the pandemic, such as high deposit rates. However, today credit unions are facing a new focal point—data—which the 2023 Strategy Priorities Benchmark Survey conducted by Jack Henry & Associates® explores. Survey respondents, including credit union and bank CEOs, provided insights into their future focus areas, which helps financial institutions understand where the industry is today, where it's going, and how it's driving bold strategic initiatives, which Doug discusses with guest Lee Wetherington.  To gain deeper insights into how credit unions can elevate their members' experience and uphold the core principle of "people helping people," Lee delves into actionable strategies, such as harnessing the potential of generative artificial intelligence (A.I.) technology and establishing a "first-app" status among members. Stream the show to learn more and why he predicts credit unions will be able to jump on board faster than expected. Listen now.

Passionate about cooperatives that focus on mission, our guest, Sam Brownell, CEO and founder of CUCollaborate, wants to help credit unions become the primary financial partner of every American. He hopes to achieve that through a new data consortium, AnalyzeCU, which credit unions can leverage to gain new insights, compete with big banks, and deliver more value. Sam discusses the platform, features such as customizable reporting, and how credit unions can balance profitability and their mission while capturing more net-new members. Stream the episode to learn more about how to participate and benefit from AnalyzeCU and leverage valuable data to strengthen the credit union movement.

Last year, ACT Advisors released its white paper, The 125% Credit Union Executive, which described how credit union leaders could unlock up to 25% more in assets from their executive benefits by applying optimized executive financial strategies. In late 2022, the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act 2.0 was passed, including provisions that offer credit union executives additional opportunities to gain even more value from their benefits. In this episode of “C.U. on the Show,” ACT Advisors Operations Manager Nicolette Speziale, CFP® takes over as host to interview ACT Advisors founder Doug English, CFP® and partner Wes Johnson, CFP® about the changes, their unique implications, and what credit union executives should consider in their wealth management strategy before and after retirement. Stream the episode to hear about the provision that can provide even more value—up to 40%—to credit union leaders and the strategies Doug and Wes recommend to reach the full potential of your executive benefits package.

With a rising interest rate environment, inflationary pressures, and increasing loan-to-share ratios, credit unions must find ways to mitigate risks to their balance sheet, and liquidity is an integral component. National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) Board Member Rodney Hood joins the podcast to discuss how establishing various lines of capital can help credit unions manage an emergency, bolster net worth, make strategic investments, and practice good balance sheet management. Stream the episode to hear about the recent Capital Markets Symposium hosted by Hood on Wall Street, the various liquidity sources and tools available to credit unions, and the goals of the newly established Office of Innovation and Access at the NCUA.

As credit unions continue to celebrate Leadership Month, Doug welcomes three credit union advocates in the fintech space who believe leaders should get comfortable taking risks, innovating, and making bold strategic decisions if the credit union movement is to stay competitive—and survive. The conversation invites listeners to embrace bold leadership and ask hard questions about how credit unions will remain relevant in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Doug is joined by: Omar Jordan, founder and CEO of Coviance, a fintech that's improving the home equity and HELOC lending experience Kristopher Kovacs, president and CEO of Constellation Digital Partners, Inc., which gives credit unions access to the latest innovations from fintechs and fintechs access to credit union decision-makers Jeff Kline, president and CEO of Members Development Company, a credit union network that connects industry leaders, pools resources for research and development, and identifies strategic products and services Stream the episode to learn how to build a foundation of bold leadership at your credit union and what the industry's future may look like without it.

As part of Leadership Month, Doug was thrilled to welcome NAFCU CEO Dan Berger to the show to discuss leadership and how it applies universally and specifically to the credit union movement. With over 17 years of experience at NAFCU, 10 of which as CEO, Dan shared how he continually hones his skills in relationship building, communication, and strategic alignment. Stream the episode to hear his valuable insights, what he wishes other leaders knew, and his tips for staying on track with your mission and goals. For Dan, it starts with your people.  Listen now.

How can credit union boards build more effective executive recruitment and retention packages? On the show, Doug is joined by representatives from CUES and Industry Insights to discuss how the annual CUES Executive Compensation Survey can help empower board members and executives with benchmark data to reach more effective and fair salary agreements. Learn more about how the survey can help streamline salary conversations and the tools, access, and insights credit unions and executives can gain from increased survey participation. Stream the episode.

On the show, Doug welcomes back Maurice Smith, the recently retired CEO of Local Government Federal Credit Union. After 43 years of credit union service, half of which as a CEO, Maurice shares how studying failures helped develop his leadership approach, and in retirement enables him to consult credit unions in identifying blind spots, recognizing warning signs, and uncovering new opportunities. Stream the episode to hear valuable insight from Maurice and why he believes studying failure can help protect an organization and preserve the credit union movement. Listen now.

Eric Stearns and Jay Rogers of Stearns Financial are back for another episode to share how their firm's LifeNotes Strategy can help rescue a credit union's deferred compensation plan, including 457(f) and collateral assignment split-dollar (CASD) plans. With lower-than-average dividends and interest rates impacting projection illustrations, credit unions are searching for ways to reduce the duration of these plans and get repaid earlier while maintaining favorable tax treatment and benefits to their executives. Eric, principal at Stearns Financial, provides use cases in which the LifeNotes Strategy can help augment or change an existing deferred compensation plan for the greatest value to all parties involved. Stream the episode to hear how your credit union can use the new strategy to address various duration, risk, and capital challenges.

In a previous podcast interview, Jay Rogers of Stearns Financial shared the firm's groundbreaking LifeNotes Strategy. The process involves purchasing life insurance-based plans to develop more adaptive features that aim to reduce duration risk and increase value to credit unions and executive participants. In this episode, Eric Stearns, principal at Stearns Financial, joins the show to share use cases of how the LifeNotes Strategy has helped credit unions optimize their credit union-owned life insurance (CUOLI) plans. Stream the episode to hear examples that might give you ideas to help your credit union and executives gain more value and flexibility to navigate a changing world.

One of the original intentions has always been to leverage life insurance-based executive benefits, such as collateral assignment split dollar plans, to retain a credit union executive. However, these plans generally come with floating maturity dates that may not be tenable long-term. So, what happens when the original goal of these benefits changes; for example, when an executive considers leaving the organization sooner than expected or for other reasons? In these scenarios, credit unions have historically been forced to keep a less desirable asset on their balance sheet—until now. Jay Rogers, senior executive consultant and director of business development at Stearns Financial, shares how credit unions can now use a new strategy to create or modify adaptive life insurance-based benefits plans that are attractive to credit unions and executives. Stream the episode to learn how Stearns Financial is helping credit unions remove the risks inherent to traditional life insurance-based benefit plans to create more value for everyone involved.

With a decrease in deposits and lending activity, credit unions face a new set of challenges in today's economic environment that require strategic, proactive planning. During periods like this, “just-in-time” capital may provide the peace of mind credit unions need to pursue a necessary merger or acquisition, create organic growth, increase their net worth, or spend for other purposes. Credit unions can access this kind of capital in the subordinated debt (sub-debt) markets but is today's higher interest rate environment the right time to issue sub-debt? We introduced the benefits of credit unions issuing sub-debt on the podcast in 2021. Podcast guest Jeff Cardone, partner at Luse Gorman, returns to the show to give Doug an update on the sub-debt capital markets and what credit unions should think about when planning around today's issues. Stream the episode to learn more about the value of sub-debt, why a credit union may consider getting pre-approval as soon as possible, and why sub-debt may be attractive in today's market environment.

With a philosophy of “people helping people,” community outreach and charitable giving play critical roles in a credit union's overall strategy. So what does it take for your credit union's charitable giving to make a real impact? According to our “C.U. on the Show” guest, every credit union should make critical decisions when developing and scaling its charitable giving to create a more meaningful and sustainable strategy. Jama Campbell, senior vice president and executive director of the State Employees' Credit Union (SECU) Foundation in North Carolina, joins Doug on the show. She shares how SECU developed and refined its approach to charitable giving and made the decision to create a dedicated foundation. Stream the episode to hear more about Jama's early-stage recommendations, such as identifying focus areas, funding models, and giving criteria including creative solutions beyond financial giving.

When you think of a digital-first organization, you may imagine the opposite of a personalized and thoughtful experience. However, “C.U. on the Show” guest Thomas Novak, vice president and chief digital officer at Visions Federal Credit Union, shares that's exactly what his team is creating through strategic innovation and a buy, build, or partner approach to fintech. Tom explains how Visions leverages technology and partners with fintech and other companies to deliver value, support seamless end-to-end member experiences, and augment what the credit union movement represents, from affordable pricing to altruism. Stream the episode to hear Tom's insight, recommendations, and notes of caution for other credit unions establishing a digital-first organization.

From scalability to increased fee revenue to capturing more non-interest-bearing deposits, there are several reasons credit unions would want to expand their services to business members. However, until recently, big banks cornered the business services area of the market. “C.U. on the Show” guest John Ballantyne, CEO of Tru Treasury, explains how treasury management solutions give credit unions a competitive advantage in serving business members. John and Doug discuss the benefits of credit unions leveraging treasury management services and which types of credit unions are best suited for the offering. Stream the episode to learn how treasury management services can add value to your credit union and the businesses in your community.

JPMorgan Chase currently invests $12 billion in technology annually, which is nearly twice as much as the IT budget of credit unions nationwide—combined. For this reason, it's becoming increasingly challenging for credit unions to keep pace with the technology, research, and development of larger financial institutions. To stay relevant and continue improving client experiences and offerings, credit unions must find ways to leverage technology and use emerging trends or disruptions to their advantage. Our "C.U. on the Show" podcast guest describes why fintech partnerships, which integrate financial services and technology to address various needs, prove to be a more efficient credit union solution. Doug welcomes guest Brian Kaas, president and managing director leading CMFG Ventures, CUNA Mutual Group's venture capital entity that focuses on strategic, early-stage investments in the credit union, financial services, and insurance industries. Brian shares the trends CMFG is observing, how credit unions can benefit from fintech partnerships to address common and emerging challenges, and what credit unions should do today to prepare for the future. Stream the episode to learn more.

Executive succession planning and finding someone to step into a CEO position is a critical role of your credit union's board. When done strategically, this process can help organizations develop internal candidates and position them for a CEO role years before a current leader leaves their position. On the show, Doug welcomes Deedee Myers of DDJ Myers, a firm specializing in strategic planning support, succession planning, leadership development, and board governance. Focusing on the importance of leadership development, Deedee explains the process she uses when helping credit union boards develop “ready-now” CEO candidates—and it starts a lot earlier than you may expect. Stream the episode to learn more, plus the proactive steps and tips executives can use to better position themselves for a CEO role.

Legacy planning for executives is the process of identifying and preparing for what's next following their career, whether that's retirement, board service, consulting, or another interest. However, many credit union executives focused on day-to-day operations may not prioritize this planning and may be missing unexpected opportunities and insight that could benefit their organizations even before they retire. On the podcast, Doug welcomes Maurice Smith, CEO of Local Government Federal Credit Union. Also joining the discussion are returning guests Anne Sample and Patty Hamm of Navigate Forward. They talk about Maurice's journey, the many lessons he learned from his legacy planning coaching, and how he's using the tools he has gained in his current role before his retirement. Stream the episode to learn more about why proactive executive planning can benefit your succession and exit planning and offer additional value to your current role, teams, and organization.

While many credit unions have collateral assignment split-dollar plans as part of their executive benefits mix, it is no secret that these tools are more complex than other benefits. As a result, when designing and implementing a successful plan, credit unions must perform a preliminary and ongoing evaluation of several factors to help reduce the risks credit unions and their executives may assume. On the show, Doug welcomes Dan Balogh, an executive benefits advisor at SWBC. For over 30 years, Dan has helped credit union boards and management teams develop executive retention and succession plans. Dan and Doug discuss the critical factors credit unions should consider when designing a new split-dollar plan or evaluating an existing one—and why overlooking these factors could cause negative implications and undue burden to the organization and its executives. Stream the episode to learn more about how to design and stress test your split-dollar plan to help reduce financial risks while developing realistic, sustainable outcomes.

Amidst the challenges of the pandemic and an increasingly competitive talent market, credit unions are reevaluating their strategic game plans as they head into the future. However, what happens when executives and board members lack direction or aren't on the same page? On the show, Doug welcomes Peter Myers, senior vice president at DDJ Myers, a firm specializing in senior leadership development, strategic alignment, and succession planning. Peter emphasizes strategic alignment as a priority in helping credit unions reach their goals, innovate, and attract and retain top talent. He also describes the consequences credit unions can encounter when leadership isn't moving in the same direction. Stream the episode to learn the steps credit union executives can take to build strategic alignment in their organizations.

Wes Johnson, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner and co-founder of ACT Advisors, joins Doug on the show to discuss direct indexing, a new investment strategy. Wes explains direct indexing, how it works, and the tax advantages it can offer investors through tax loss harvesting. Doug and Wes also explain how credit union executives can benefit from direct indexing, take unique advantage of tax opportunities in low- and high-income years, and customize their security purchases based on their social preferences or concentrated positions. Stream the full episode to learn more.

When is the right time to secure in-house counsel for your credit union's legal matters? On the podcast, Doug welcomes guest attorney Kendra Rubin, chief legal officer at SEFCU, a New York-based credit union. They discuss her journey joining the credit union movement, how she built a legal department from scratch, and the value an in-house attorney can add to a credit union beyond managing compliance and litigation issues. Hear the entire conversation on when and how to get started, whether you're a smaller credit union considering legal assistance or a larger institution looking to expand. Stream the episode here.

Serving on a board allows credit union leaders and those approaching retirement to continue advancing their mission-focused commitment, using their career experience, and giving back to their community. However, finding and obtaining a board role is not as simple as you may expect. On the show, Doug welcomes Anne Sample and Patricia Hamm of Navigate Forward, a firm specializing in helping executives add board service to their professional experience or plan for the future beyond the end of their corporate careers. Anne and Patricia share the process for finding an opportunity that matches a leader's experience and interests and how they help executives secure board seats. Stream the full episode to learn more.

The online gambling world is growing as its activity becomes more mainstream and laws evolve to allow it. This is an important area of growth, allowing credit unions to capture revenue from new online card transactions, but how do they start, and should they? Guest Karen Postma of PSCU, a CUSO payment processing firm, explains how credit unions can get involved in online gambling transactions from a member service and income perspective and the common reasons they may be hesitant. Listen to the full episode to learn about the potential benefits, risk factors to consider, and how to get started.

Historically, credit unions have accessed capital through CDs, short- and long-term loans, and other investment funds to help them expand and pursue strategic initiatives. However, as credit unions have grown over the years and are offering more complex services, there is a demand to meet balance sheet needs, causing them to enter the secondary capital market. Capital markets also create an additional opportunity for credit unions to become issuers of capital through subordinated debt. In this episode, Doug welcomes guests representing Alloya Corporate Federal Credit Union, Bill Patton and Greg Hill. They discuss how they're improving loan participations, how a credit union can become an issuer, and other factors credit unions should consider when entering the capital market space. Stream the full episode now.

Target date funds are popular for many 401(k) plan participants because they offer an investment strategy that automatically reduces risk as one approaches retirement. However, they're a suboptimal solution for credit union executives with more retirement income sources and associated risk levels than the average employee. In this episode, Doug explains why credit union executives should reconsider using a target date fund and the significant financial differences executives may experience using three case study examples. Listen now.

Matt Haid, area vice president at Gallagher, is back on the show to discuss the importance of split-dollar plan design. He shares the first factors to consider when choosing a plan and best practices to help credit unions protect themselves, their executives, and beneficiaries. Stream the episode to learn more about funding vehicles, why some life insurance policies have a higher premium, and the difference between recourse and non-recourse loans. Listen now.