TransUnion: Extra Credit

DJ Cox joins this month, flipping the script on Craig and Josh with the most-asked questions he's hearing within the credit and lending space. As they reflect on 2025 so far, Josh highlights signs of recovery in card originations and improving delinquency trends. And Craig adds a macro perspective, describing consumers as “cautiously stable” amid mixed economic signals. Looking ahead, the conversation turns to key risks and opportunities — from tariff uncertainty and returning student loan payments to lenders shifting toward more selective growth strategies. They also examine trends in credit lines and balances, pointing to stable utilization and signs of disciplined behavior among consumers. The episode wraps with an assessment of the shrinking private label card market and why it still matters, even against rising competition like buy now, pay later services. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

In this special episode, recorded live from TransUnion's annual Financial Services Summit in Chicago, hosts Craig and Josh are joined by Paul Gruenwald, Chief Global Economist at S&P Global Ratings. The conversation kicks off with an in-depth exploration of the economic impacts of tariffs, financial implications of tightening federal spending, and why tracking the labor market is key to predicting a recession. Paul then shares his take on the future of the US labor market, including the potential for increased domestic manufacturing, and discusses implications of AI. Shifting gears to global trade, they consider the connections between savings, investments and net exports, and assess the US dollar's status as the global reserve currency. Finally, they examine significant investments in renewable energy projects and macroeconomic impacts of moving away from a fossil fuel-based economy. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

TransUnion Sales VP Brad Deja is in the studio this month to talk shop! Josh starts by highlighting signs of a stabilizing market, including a slower decline in loan originations and the return of prime and below prime card issuance to pre-pandemic levels. Brad inquires about market expectations for Q1, noting a number of consumers are still struggling with inflation. Craig explains why he believes consumer credit health is evening out despite these challenges. When asked about the continued decline in originations, Josh attributes this to issuers' caution — while also pointing out positive demand signs in higher credit tiers. The conversation then shifts to current trends in card balances and utilization; Brad wonders whether delinquencies have peaked yet; and finally, Craig notes the most pertinent fraud challenges facing lenders today. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Jason Laky, Executive Vice President of Financial Services at TransUnion, returns for the first time since June 2022! Things kick off with a review of past predictions, including a recession forecast and an assessment of the current consumer credit market. Jason is optimistic about stable interest rates and potential regulatory improvements benefiting financial services. Josh and Jason discuss 2024 lender impacts across mortgage, auto, credit card and FinTech sectors, with a look at the state of consumer financial health. Jason considers whether consumers will adapt to current interest rates to enter the housing market. Craig and Jason address fraud sophistication and the need for financial institutions to implement better fraud mitigation strategies. They also explore potential disruptions in consumer lending, with Jason predicting generative AI will enhance financial services through improved personalization and efficiency. Finally, Craig inquires about student loan payments resuming, and the future of mergers and acquisitions in a challenging cost environment. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

TransUnion Sales VP Danielle Parry-Hill joins the podcast this month to discuss the state of the card market and growing concerns around fraud. Danielle and Josh kick things off by noting while originations are down, charge-offs, delinquencies and card utilization are rising. Danielle raises a key question from CFIs: Have delinquencies peaked? Craig advises issuers to adjust their risk strategies accordingly. Danielle points out CFIs are now facing significant fraud challenges, including bots testing identities. Josh highlights the surge in early default losses on credit cards and growing difficulty in managing fraud due to synthetic identities and first-party fraud. Craig shifts the focus to bankruptcy, noting while rates are low, increased debt settlements might be hiding underlying risks — and lastly, explains why private label cards have become riskier than bankcards. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

With Steve Manion joining the podcast this month, the conversation kicks off with a year-over-year review of consumer card usage. Josh examines shifts in bankcard balance and origination growth; Craig reveals which consumers are taking on far less new debt; and Steve wants to know how current charge-off balances compare to pre-COVID levels. Steve and Craig then discuss how lenders are leveraging technology to enhance marketing and speed to market. Josh emphasizes the need for lenders to diversify their consumer engagement tactics, ensuring relevant offers at every touchpoint and channel, and delivering personalized experiences efficiently. Craig details the ‘strategic imperatives' for issuers in 2024 — including efficiency in marketing, evolving fraud threats, changing regulatory environments and the role of artificial intelligence — and Steve asks if higher fraud rates are being observed in certain channels compared to others. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Part Two: Live From TransUnion's 2024 Financial Services Summit, Las Vegas In part two of the 2024 FS Summit episode, TransUnion's Sean Flynn sits down with Union Credit co-founder and CRO Barry Kirby to highlight some key challenges facing credit unions today. Sean and Barry start by discussing the contradiction credit unions are running into as they balance growing their young member bases with needing more deposits due to liquidity constraints. Barry shares the widening average age gap between credit union members (57) and US consumers (37), and describes why educating younger generations on the benefits of credit unions is critical for the health of the entire banking system. Sean notes how Barry's company helps community banks automate and scale in new ways, leading him to wonder what kind of fraud Barry is seeing these days and how credit unions are responding. Finally, Barry looks back on 25 years as an entrepreneur in the community banking space to offer advice for those pursuing a similar path. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Part One: Live From TransUnion's 2024 Financial Services Summit, Las Vegas In part one of the 2024 FS Summit episode, credit union VPs Heather Dufourny (Service Credit Union) and Heather Sullivan (Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union) sit down with Craig and Josh in Las Vegas to discuss the goings-on in the credit union industry. Craig is curious to hear which products members are most interested in, and wonders how Dufourny's and Sullivan's credit unions are responding to the financial squeeze many members are experiencing. Dufourny and Sullivan share how each of their organizations are utilizing this slow period — from preparing for an eventual refinance boom to diversifying portfolios — and agree balancing a seamless member experience with the need for increased fraud controls has been a challenge within the industry. Josh wraps things up by asking which key elements they're focusing on to draw in a younger demographic, and is keen to know how a credit union decides when to bring in new technology or systems. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Guest FJ Guarrera puts Craig and Josh in the hot seat this month with questions around recent consumer performance, trends and preferences in the card industry. The conversation kicks off with a macroeconomic view of the market since last quarter — ranging from consumer sentiments to card balances and originations to the impact consumer stress levels are having on their financial health. FJ asks how issuers should be responding to elevated risk in the marketplace, and Josh shares strategies lenders might consider to alleviate some of that pressure. Craig shares an update on the private label market; Josh weighs in on when migrating scores may start to normalize; and the conversation ultimately shifts to what issuers can be doing to better understand Gen Z preferences and behaviors — particularly given market dynamics over the last few years. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Matt Spiegel and Patrick White join the podcast this month to discuss the ongoing transformation of marketing strategies and operations. Josh kicks things off by remarking on the lack of financial advertising in this year's Super Bowl; Matt discusses how financial services marketers should be connecting brand and performance data for more precise results; and Craig and Patrick discuss the opportunity costs of disconnected datasets, including deterministic versus probabilistic data matching. Plus, Josh details some surprising marketing solicitations he's received from his bank; Patrick describes three things lenders can focus on to ensure they're maximizing their customer insights; and Matt shares marketing tactics financial organizations should consider that can be achieved on any budget. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Paul Siegfried who leads the card and banking business at TransUnion returns to Extra Credit for the third time to discuss what's ahead for card issuers and consumers in 2024. Paul cautiously forecasts how rates, delinquencies and charge-offs might look by the end of the year; Craig asks what the market can expect to see in terms of unemployment and wage growth; and Josh wants to know how priorities and agendas are looking when broken out by segment. Plus, Josh digs into whether fraud has really evolved (or does it just feel different in this economy?); Craig shares a scheme fraudsters recently tried (and failed) to pull on him; and Paul offers advice to issuers struggling to feel confident in today's environment. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

TransUnion financial services sales leader Stephanie Donaghy joins this month's podcast to ask Craig and Josh about recent trends in the card market — based on key questions she's hearing from within the industry. The conversation covers everything from consumer credit health and sentiment continuing into 2024; how consumer spending is impacting balances across risk sectors; and the relationship between utilization and stress. Josh and Stephanie also discuss the right balance of anti-fraud measures within application experiences geared toward younger consumers. Craig speaks to private label card balances being at an all-time high, and Josh weighs in on the drivers and impacts of high delinquency rates and charge-off balances. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Craig kicks off the last Extra Credit episode of the year with a macro recap of 2023, ranging from the impact of increased interest rates on markets and consumers to economic and geopolitical disruptions to the growing presence of artificial intelligence. Taking a more micro view of the market over these last 12 months, Josh highlights interesting patterns around originations, delinquencies and card balances; discusses lender investments into marketing and fraud programs; looks at capital markets and consumer affordability; and describes the impact and uncertainty stemming from increased regulations. Finally, Craig and Josh look back at some memorable guests and episodes from 2023, and give a peek at what listeners can expect to hear on Extra Credit in the new year. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

SMBC ManuBank CRO Mike Leary joins the podcast this month to discuss the relationship between risk and financial institutions in today's economic environment. Mike and Craig discuss the lesser-known risks impacting portfolios today, including hidden buy now, pay later loans and credit score inflation. Mike weighs in on positioning a card portfolio in uncertain times; explains why some banks are using credit cards as transactional products; and stresses the need for working tools to properly assess the stability of consumer credit scores. Josh asks for Mike's opinion on which market innovations hold the most promise or red flags, and Mike ideates on what younger generations of employees can do to be successful in today's unusual workforce. Plus, Mike thinks back on his time as a collegiate cross country athlete and how a team-oriented mentality has helped positively shape his career. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

TransUnion SVP of Auto, Satyan Merchant, joins Craig and Josh this month to discuss emerging trends within the US auto financing market. We begin with Satyan touching on today's top auto industry headlines — from supply chain issues and high interest rates impacting consumer affordability to major shifts in market share. Satyan describes how technology-forward dealerships and lenders are modernizing the industry by offering online-to-offline car shopping experiences, and shares how lenders should be thinking about the growing number of credit-active Gen Z consumers. Josh and Craig ask for Satyan's opinion on the future of vehicle values and supply, and what that means from a credit standpoint; they discuss the return of incentive programs; and Satyan draws comparisons between the auto and mortgage financing markets. *Plus, take a look at the TransUnion study Satyan references in the episode: https://www.transunion.com/lp/impact-of-unsettled-vehicle-values The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

TransUnion Head of US Government Relations, Allison Shuster, returns to Extra Credit this month to discuss the political and legislative activities currently impacting the US financial services industry. Craig and Allison start by discussing the proposed Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) rulemaking process expected to take place later in 2023, whether government partisanship is as challenging as it's portrayed in the media, and how legislators are turning to the private sector to help inform policy decisions. Next Josh and Allison talk about the major focus areas for regulators that might not be as headline-grabbing, including a politically-stalled federal privacy standard and AI governance concerns cropping up in both the Senate and Congress. Finally, Josh asks Allison how the upcoming presidential election cycle will impact the pace of legislation; they discuss how states are looking at the use and treatment of medical debt on the credit file; and Allison urges listeners to pay attention to the uptick in agency activity (particularly from the CFPB and FHFA) within the housing market. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Joining Craig and Josh this month is Melissa Koide, Founder and CEO of FinRegLab — a nonprofit organization that tests and researches technology to help inform public policy and advance financial inclusion. Melissa touches on some of FinRegLab's key initiatives, including the use of cashflow data to predict credit risk and assess populations with limited or no credit history; new research the organization is doing on machine learning algorithms being used in financial services; and a partnership with Kenya's government, banks and bureaus to determine the optimal data insights needed for credit risk assessing women-owned small businesses. The group also discusses regulatory uncertainties keeping the financial industry from wider adoption of new types of data, and muses over the laws and regulations that could one day surround artificial intelligence and platforms like ChatGPT. Finally, Josh tests Melissa's Kentucky knowledge with some light trivia about her hometown. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

In this month's episode, credit union leaders Kaylyn Leese and Michael Kelly join Craig and Josh onsite at TransUnion's 2023 Financial Services Summit in Chicago. Kaylyn and Michael begin by sharing what they're excited about within the lending space followed by a discussion of the challenges credit unions are up against — including a competitive market and balancing new technology — as they pursue opportunities to support their members and communities. Our guests then weigh in on the pressure credit unions are facing to deliver high-touch, digital experiences; Josh wonders how each of their credit unions is handling change management initiatives; and the group discusses how automating processes can be very positive for employees willing to take on new skills and grow in their careers. Plus, Craig and Josh are put to the test when Kaylyn and Michael ask some questions in return! Our hosts offer their perspectives on the future of the mortgage industry, as well as explore potential fraud concerns that could arise from growing consumer pressures around immediacy in lending. Finally, to celebrate recording onsite in Chicago, Craig and Josh quiz our guests on some fun Windy City history. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

This month on the podcast, TransUnion Chief Information and Technology Officer Abhi Dhar joins Craig and Josh to discuss how credit lenders are contending with technology enablement trends in the financial services industry. Josh and Abhi kick the conversation off by examining the global business drivers impacting how organizations — and especially leadership — are thinking about technology. Abhi notes how the pandemic accelerated cloud adoption for many financial institutions, and emphasizes how important it is for business leaders to appeal to engineering talent. Abhi then addresses what lenders can do to better adapt to these significant market changes, and Craig asks Abhi for his opinion on how tech can improve global consumer access to financial services or financial outcomes. Finally, Josh tests our guest's knowledge of an old favorite band of his: The Chemical Brothers! The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

After focusing on market forecast trends in last month's episode, Craig and Josh are diving deeper to examine the competitive dynamics currently facing issuers — and how technology is shaping that competition. They are joined by David Shipper, a strategic advisor at research firm Aite Novarica with expertise in the card and payment space. Josh and David start by discussing the power of convenient payment methods, and how alternative digital payment apps are creating shifts in the market. David points out key customer-centric trends being overlooked by many financial institutions, while highlighting opportunities for banks willing to examine their own internal processes and digital strategies. Josh and Craig then ask David to share his advice for smaller FIs without large tech budgets, and the steps they can take to compete for market share; they discuss the growing number of partnerships between fintechs and banks; and Craig and David discuss banks' debit card and deposit populations as a source of potential card growth. Finally, David dominates Josh's credit-themed trivia questions! The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

To kick off our first episode of the year, TransUnion's Michele Raneri (VP of Financial Services Research and Consulting) and Kathy Maffei (Sr. Director of Argus Advisory, a TransUnion Company) join this month's podcast to share their predictions for 2023. Michele begins with a conversation on originations and delinquencies in the personal loan, mortgage and auto industries, and the resulting impact they could have on consumer credit health in the US. She and Craig discuss how consumers are still quitting their jobs in record numbers — despite believing a recession is coming — and what that means for consumer confidence around personal finances. Michele also explains why she believes the auto industry will see a much-needed bolster in 2023, while the personal loan sector could be facing some challenges. Next, Kathy and Josh look at the growth and strength of credit cards and deposits in a post-COVID rate environment, with Kathy noting banks should be focused on the ‘total customer perspective' by emphasizing customer loyalty with multiple products across a singular financial institution. Kathy and Josh also discuss the importance of continuing to grow balances amid challenging credit losses, and the opportunities credit card issuers can find simply by focusing on the middle of their portfolios. Finally, we get to know Michele and Kathy a little better in a lightning round of questions on their favorite topics (outside of financial services, of course): running and geography! — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

To close out the year with a bang, December's Extra Credit episode is a double-header. Paul Siegfried, TransUnion Head of Card and Banking, joins Josh and Craig for a two-part podcast where he shares his perspectives on current consumer and competitive trends in the credit card market, and how issuers can differentiate and position themselves for growth. Part two of episode 12 kicks off with the second half of the car-themed trivia before honing in on competitive pressures facing different card issuer segments as they position themselves to acquire and retain customers, transactions and balances. Paul explains the practical value of using trended credit and alternative data to better know and understand consumers — and why that's critical to winning share of wallet. He also offers a personal take on generational differences in consumer expectations for credit and credit products. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

To close out the year with a bang, December's Extra Credit episode is a double-header. Paul Siegfried, TransUnion Head of Card and Banking, joins Josh and Craig for a two-part podcast where he shares his perspectives on current consumer and competitive trends in the credit card market, and how issuers can differentiate and position themselves for growth. In part one of episode 12, the conversation explores the financial health of the American consumer and credit market dynamics, including how issuers are faring relative to other lending institutions, and what they're thinking about as they look to 2023. Paul also reveals what issuers should expect from fraudsters and offers thoughts on how to best mitigate risk. Plus, in true Extra Credit tradition, Craig gets Paul's motor running with some hard-driving trivia on one of Paul's favorite subjects. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

The credit card market is the focus when Craig and Josh sit down with Bill Bostwick, Senior Vice President and Head of Atlanticus' card division. A veteran leader in the card space, Bill brings deep experience to his role as he partners with banks, retail and healthcare organizations to help the financially underserved manage their financial well-being. This conversation discusses upcoming challenges in the card market, and explores how the industry can address potential obstacles — for both issuers and consumers — as the economy continues to evolve. Reflecting on recent trends and what they foretell, Bill shares valuable insights on market dynamics and whether issuers are prepared to manage through a downturn. He talks about different ways to use data, and suggests the rising importance of alternative data — especially as consumers consider alternate financial solutions as inflationary pressures start to hit. He also covers consumer performance and support, including the need for better and more widespread financial education. Plus, Craig challenges Bill on the gridiron with hard-hitting trivia questions about his favorite NFL team, the Chicago Bears. For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

To gain perspective on where our economy stands and where it's headed, we're delighted to welcome Ryan Boyle to this month's podcast. A macroeconomist at Northern Trust — and TransUnion alumnus — Ryan brings deep knowledge and practical insight on multiple forces at play, giving us a better understanding of what's actually happening and how. In this episode, Josh and Craig ask Ryan about the current state of the US economy and how it fits within the global context. Ryan shares his perspectives on labor and employment trends, supply chain issues, inflation — and the implications for consumer lending. He adds context to today's dynamics by looking back at how previous global events affected the US economy. He also shares his longer-term concerns for future economic impacts. Plus, Josh tests Ryan's memories of his days at University of Chicago with trivia questions about distinguished alumni, campus life and more. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

We're thrilled to welcome guest Rahul Gupta to this month's podcast! Having worked in financial tech, banking and payments spaces since the 90s, Rahul brings a wealth of information and insight to the table — and has many thoughts on what card lenders should expect in the coming decade. In this episode, Craig asks Rahul how new developments in the payments space could impact card lenders — which leads to the group discussing whether Payment-as-a-Service (PaaS) might become an expansion of card wholesale for vertical-based lenders. Rahul alludes to a technology revolution in which all industries eventually offer embedded payments options — from ecommerce to healthcare to B2B. Then, Josh asks Rahul how technology stacks and services will change for financial institutions (FIs) over the next 5–10 years, and Rahul weighs in on questions around specialization regional banks and credit unions should be asking themselves. Plus, Josh quizzes Rahul on California-related trivia, and Rahul offers advice to those still in the first half of their careers. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

TransUnion's Jason Laky (Executive VP of Financial Services) joins this month's episode to discuss the state of the financial services industry — now that we're just over halfway through 2022. Craig and Josh inquire about consumer credit health, which Jason says is in very good shape despite a turbulent economy. Jason looks back on some industry predictions he made earlier in the year, including those regarding auto and mortgage markets, and supply and demand of consumer credit cards. Then, Craig and Josh open the floor to discuss risks and opportunities for lenders across various financial products; and Jason discusses the likelihood of a recession. Plus, Craig quizzes Jason on Dallas Cowboys trivia and international hockey standings; Jason shares his expert recommendation of the most underrated city in Europe; and explains how he's teaching his college-aged kids about the stock market. For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

TransUnion's Rachel Goldberg (Global Head of External Affairs) and Allison Shuster (Head of U.S. Government Relations) join the podcast this month to discuss US policy initiatives affecting the financial services industry, as well as the current regulatory landscape in Washington D.C. In this episode, our guests touch on the debate regarding a federal privacy standard and how difficult it's been for legislation to pass at a federal level. Allison weighs in on possible regulatory impacts should control of the legislative branches shift during the midterms; Rachel shares her thoughts around financial inclusion efforts from the Biden administration; and there's discussion on how inflation strains are affecting policy decisions. Plus, Josh is curious about Rachel's view on policymaking re: financial institutions sharing consumer data; Allison discusses privacy initiatives at the local level; and Craig and Josh test Rachel's and Allison's knowledge of sports and restaurants in the D.C. area. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

This month, we're seeing double with two guests and two episodes! Joining Craig and Josh are Karen Andres (Director of Policy and Market Solutions and Project Director of the Retirement Savings Initiative at the Aspen Institute Financial Security Program) and Josh Sledge (Senior Director of Incubation at the Filene Research Institute, a “think and do tank” in the credit union space). In part two of this month's episode, Craig asks Karen and Josh S. to offer opinions on the government's role in regulating financial products. They also discuss the importance of truly understanding consumer outcomes. Our guests then think back on financial products that never quite took off, as well as small ideas that turned into something much bigger. Finally, host Josh finally learns about the origination of the 401k, and Karen and Josh S. talk about exposing their kids to financial concepts from a young age. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

This month, we're seeing double with two guests and two episodes! Joining Craig and Josh are Karen Andres (Director of Policy and Market Solutions and Project Director of the Retirement Savings Initiative at the Aspen Institute Financial Security Program) and Josh Sledge (Senior Director of Incubation at the Filene Research Institute, a “think and do tank” in the credit union space). In part one, Karen and Josh S. explore how the approach to financial inclusion has evolved over the decade — specifically regarding the role of financial institutions. Karen discusses the Aspen Institute's recent call for the Biden administration to establish a presidential council on financial inclusion, and Josh S. talks about Filene's recent focus on providing credit unions with tools to improve members' financial health. Plus, our hosts try to stump Karen and Josh S. with Michiganian trivia, and everyone gets derailed talking about subscriptions from Taco Bell. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Jason Mikula is on the podcast this month! Having spent more than decade building and scaling consumer finance businesses — including Enova, LendUp and Goldman Sachs — Jason is now the publisher of the Fintech Business Weekly newsletter and an advisor for early stage startups. In this episode, Jason shares the FinTech trends he believes are overhyped, and argues that creditors and lenders aren't paying enough attention to the rapidly changing payments universe. He offers his perspective on cryptocurrency and the US regulatory environment, and he, Craig and Josh discuss measures lenders can take as the credit card market becomes increasingly saturated. Plus, Jason talks about living in Amsterdam; Craig and Josh quiz him on Dutch trivia; and Craig is particularly disappointed to find out Jason doesn't own a single pair of wooden clogs. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Susan Ehrlich joins Craig and Josh on the podcast this month, drawing on a wealth of industry experience at incumbent banks, neobanks, large credit card lenders, and more — including running Amazon's global credit card program, serving as CEO of Earnest, and now sitting on the boards for BECU, Petal and Arrived Homes. In the episode, Susan shares her excitement for how companies are expanding access to consumers across the credit spectrum. They discuss the legacy tech challenges traditional FIs and credit card lenders are facing, implications of the banking industry moving to the cloud, and what credit unions and smaller banks can do to differentiate from FinTechs. Susan also reveals her favorite golf course, the round that still haunts her today, what it was like playing with Rory McIlroy in a pro-am — and her love of volunteering in San Francisco's election polls. For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

This month, Craig and Josh are joined by Jim Block, COO and Executive VP at BCU — a large, Chicago-based credit union serving members across the US. After asking Jim to weigh in on their prediction around trended credit scores, Craig and Josh inquire about how BCU leverages and balances trended credit data, as well as the credit union's focus on financial inclusion. Craig and Josh then quiz Jim on some credit union history, and Jim shares an update on the giant foam wedge that once lived in his basement. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

A top 50 credit union wants to grow its card program but is having trouble deciding whether to maintain its ‘credit union marketing philosophy' or pivot its strategy to resemble that of a bigger bank. Hear Craig and Josh answer this listener's question — and others — in this month's Q&A. — To ask a question or suggest an episode topic, please email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liability for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

Looking ahead in 2022, TransUnion's Craig and Josh discuss the trends and developments within four key areas of card and banking: Consumer economic health and behavior Significant government and regulatory trends Competitive developments External influences 5. From there, they make their predictions — covering everything from inflation levels and origination numbers to credit unions and reengineered checking accounts. They even commit the cardinal sin of mentioning religion and politics… but Craig was too busy thinking about Scotch to notice. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.

In the inaugural episode of Extra Credit, TransUnion's Craig LaChapelle and Josh Turnbull look back on how the card and banking industry fared in 2021. Several questions were discussed, including: What were the dynamics of consumer demand, and how did ongoing effects of the pandemic impact consumer balances and liquidity? What did we learn about Buy Now, Pay Later consumers? How did Gen Z's growing involvement in the credit market compare to preceding generations? Featuring guest Paul Siegfried, Head of Card and Banking at TransUnion. — For questions or to suggest an episode topic, email ExtraCredit@transunion.com. The information discussed in this podcast constitutes the opinion of TransUnion, and TransUnion shall have no liablity for any actions taken based upon the content of this podcast.