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In this episode, Chris Nichols and Caleb Stevens sit down with Brennan Perkins, a recent Citadel graduate, to explore how early leadership experiences translate into a career in banking. From learning how to be an effective follower to leading peers under pressure, Brennan shares key lessons on servant leadership, attention to detail, and building influence without authority. The conversation highlights how discipline and structure can coexist with creativity and problem-solving, and why curiosity, humility, and a willingness to learn are critical for success early in a banking career. Ultimately, it offers a fresh perspective on how foundational leadership principles can shape future leaders in financial services. Download our newest eBook: The Community Bank Performance Engine! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
In this episode, Chris Nichols and DJ Seeterlin explore what banks can learn from Trader Joe's approach to strategy, focusing on clear customer segments, intentional trade-offs, and delivering value over price. They discuss how aligning products, people, and experiences around a defined audience can help banks stand out, and how these same principles apply to areas like AI, where technology should enhance the human connection. Download our newest eBook: The Community Bank Performance Engine! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
In this episode, Chris Nichols is joined by Samer Saab of Alloy Labs to explore the growing tension between a traditional "debt mindset" and a more forward-looking "equity mindset" in banking. While banks are built to minimize risk and protect principal, that same instinct can limit innovation, partnerships, and long-term growth. Samer shares practical ways banks can rebalance risk and reward by moving faster, experimenting more, and treating new initiatives as scalable capabilities rather than one-off projects. Download our newest eBook: The Community Bank Performance Engine! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
In this episode, Chris Nichols sits down with Jack Henry's Lee Wetherington to unpack the biggest strategic shifts facing community banks today. From deposit pressures and the rise of small business banking to the growing importance of data strategy and payments, the conversation highlights how banks must rethink their approach to growth. The discussion makes one thing clear: success in the next phase of banking will depend on how well institutions leverage data, adapt their payment strategies, and evolve alongside rapidly changing customer behaviors, especially among Gen Z and small business owners. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
What if rescue isn't the end of your story—but just the beginning?In Week 4 of Find Your Place in God's Mission, Chris Nichols explores the Exodus story to reveal a powerful truth: God doesn't just rescue His people from slavery—He redeems them for a purpose.Through Moses and the Israelites, we see that rescue changes circumstances, but redemption restores identity and calling. God forms His people into a “kingdom of priests” and a “holy nation,” set apart not for superiority—but for mission.And through Jesus, that same calling now belongs to us.This message speaks to anyone who: Feels stuck after experiencing God's rescue Struggles to live out their faith consistently Wonders what their life is meant for You'll discover that you are not just freed from your past—you are sent into the world with purpose.Key Scripture: Exodus 6:1–8; Exodus 19:3–6; 1 Peter 2:9 Big Idea: We are redeemed people, called to reflect God's character and participate in His mission.
Hollywood isn't dying. It's being deconstructed and reassembled into something nobody has a blueprint for, and the people falling into the water right now are the ones who have to figure out what the new ship looks like. Chris Nichols, Daniel, and James are recording this one from a moving car, driving from Los Angeles to Angel's Camp, California for a live location shoot on their Monstrous Moonshine western, June July. The conversation they have on the way there turns into one of the more honest assessments of what the industry is actually going through: not an AI problem, not a streaming problem, but a collapse of the middle-ground ecosystem that used to grow directors, fund weird ideas, and keep creative risk alive. But first: how a pocket watch changed everything. Before any of that industry talk, the crew digs into what happened when they started shooting vid-viz for June July on an iPhone. James, who plays the outlaw Ross in the film, found something in that low-stakes exploratory process that nobody had scripted: a lonely man who thought he had more time, holding a dead man's pocket watch and staring at the life he ruined. That discovery rewrote Ross's entire arc, threaded a new storyline through the larger film, and proved that vid-viz isn't just a pre-visualization tool. It's where the real story gets found. From there the conversation opens up into what it actually means to survive a reshuffling industry, why the lens test mentality is the most insidious way creative people avoid making things, and what anyone with 25 years of experience and a suddenly obsolete skill set is supposed to do next. Links: Monstrous Moonshine > James Blevins IMDB > James Blevins LinkedIn > Virtual Production: 'June July' Filmmakers Test New "VidViz" Technique | The Creative + Tech Orbit > This episode is sponsored by: Center Grid Virtual Studio Kitbash 3D (Use promocode "CGGarage" for 10% off)
What if the Bible isn't a collection of disconnected stories—but one unified story that you're already part of?In Week 1 of Find Your Place in God's Mission, Chris Nichols introduces a conversation with Ed Stetzer and Ted Coniaris that explores the central storyline of Scripture: God's mission to redeem and restore all creation.Through Luke 24 and the story of the road to Emmaus, we see how Jesus helped His followers rediscover where they stood in that story—and why it changed everything.This message speaks to anyone who has ever felt: Disconnected from purpose Stuck in the routine of everyday life Unsure where they fit in God's plan Rather than calling us to find a new story, Jesus invites us to remember the one we're already in.Key Scripture: Luke 24:25–27, 44–48, 32 Big Idea: God's mission is the story of the Bible—and our purpose is to join Him in it.Featuring insights from Ed Stetzer, this episode helps frame the entire biblical narrative—Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration—and invites you to find your place within it.
Right before the cross, Jesus prayed for you.In this powerful final message from the Gospel of John series, Chris Nichols unpacks John 17:20–26, where Jesus prays not just for His first disciples—but for all who would follow Him.His focus? Not success. Not influence. But unity.In a culture built on division and outrage, Jesus offers a radically different vision: a community of diverse people متحد by grace, humility, and shared mission—so that the world would believe.In this episode, you'll explore: What Jesus meant when He prayed, “that they may be one” Why unity is not about sameness, but shared surrender to Christ How God's glory reshapes our identity and relationships Why unity is essential to the Church's mission in the world Practical ways to live out unity through grace, humility, and self-denialThis message invites you to move beyond winning arguments—and step into a life that reflects the unity and love of Jesus.
Faith rarely happens all at once. More often, it unfolds step by step.In this message from John 8–9, Chris Nichols traces the powerful story of the man born blind whose healing becomes a journey—from questioning, to responding, to believing, and finally to worshiping Jesus as Lord. Through this progression, we see that Jesus is the illuminating I AM, the Light of the World who opens our eyes not just to see, but to truly know him.This episode explores:What it means that Jesus is the Light of the WorldWhy honest questions are often the beginning of authentic faithHow personal transformation becomes a testimony of beliefThe invitation to move from healing into wholehearted worshipIf you feel like your faith is unfinished, uncertain, or still forming, this message offers hope: Jesus meets you in the middle of your journey and gently leads you toward deeper trust and worship.
Here is a radical idea: what if you rehearsed the movie before you shot it? Not storyboards. Not an animatic. Live actors, real cameras, and actual creative decisions being made in the room. That is what Chris Nichols and Daniel Thron have been doing on June July, and cinematographer Richard Crudo, ASC joined them to find out if it actually works. Richard brings perspective from the Coen Brothers' dime-store ingenuity on Raising Arizona (yes, an Arri 2C strapped to a two-by-four), decades navigating the film-to-digital transition, and a long-standing argument that the industry has built a priesthood around tech complexity that actively gets in the way of the story. What he found in the VidViz sessions was the opposite: a blue screen, a rough key in OBS, and a team moving fast enough to make creative breakthroughs that quietly rewrote the arc of the entire film. One actor's performance changed the screenplay without changing a single line of dialogue. That kind of discovery does not happen in a pipeline. It happens in a room. Links: Monstrous Moonshine > Richard Crudo's website > Chaos Vantage > Chaos Arena > This episode is sponsored by: Center Grid Virtual Studio Kitbash 3D (Use promocode "cggarage" for 10% off)
The winner of the NCAJ's 2025 Charles Becton Teaching Award, Chris Nichols reflects on his decades-long commitment to NCAJ's continuing legal education programs and the North Carolina Mock Trial Program. Joining the conversation is one of Chris' mock trial students, high school senior Sam Circosta. “The great thing about mock trial is we're not necessarily training lawyers. We're just training leaders. That's what Sam has been for the last four years,” Chris tells host Amber Nimocks. In addition to discussing his journey as a teacher and coach, Chris also highlights his role as NCAJ's government affairs consultant and previews upcoming CLEs.
I cannot tell you how many questions I've gotten about legal issues surrounding data centers on rural land. Chris Nichols, an attorney who has worked on these deals in a number of different capacities, joined me to chat about the various legal issues that arise, questions folks should be asking, and what the future might look like when it comes to data centers. Contact Info for Chris Nichols Website Phone: 806-771-1850 Links to Topics Mentioned on the Show Podcast episode on options and rights of first refusal Thank you to our 2026 Podcast Sponsors!
Many of us are waiting — for answers, for peace, for God to move in our story.In this message from Luke 2:21–35, Chris Nichols reflects on the story of Simeon, a man who waited faithfully for what Scripture calls “the consolation of Israel.” Through Simeon's song, we're reminded that Jesus is not a temporary comfort, but true salvation and light — the fulfillment of God's promises.This episode invites listeners to trust that God's faithfulness will be worth the wait, and that in seeing Jesus, we discover the hope we've been longing for all along.
Knoxville City Council Candidate Chris Nichols discusses his candidacy for Knoxville City Council ahead of the upcoming 2025 City/School Elections.
In this episode, Chris Nichols sits down with Gwen Wertz, SVP of Retail Banking at Provident Bank, to discuss how her team drives deposit growth and manages funding costs in a competitive environment. Gwen shares practical insights from her experience leading deposit strategy meetings, building a culture of collaboration, and balancing acquisition with retention. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
Despite ongoing economic uncertainty and investors' concerns about potential slippage in credit quality, U.S. banks delivered strong third-quarter results that beat expectations across the board. In the episode, Chris Nichols, Director of Capital Markets at South State, discusses third-quarter earnings trends, including the continued resilience of consumer spending, the stabilization of credit quality after several quarters of deterioration, and the unexpected strength in fee income. Nichols and Street Talk host Nathan Stovall dissect the controversy around loans to nondepository financial institutions (NDFI) following several high-profile credit losses, debating whether these incidents represent isolated frauds or canaries in the coal mine. Nichols also highlighted strategic imperatives for banks heading into 2026 and argued that now is the time to rebuild deposit franchises through product innovation and marketing creativity—not rate competition. Nichols and Stovall also explore the reawakening M&A landscape as regulatory headwinds ease and activist investors enter the fray.
Today, Chris Nichols sits down with Alex Johnson, author of popular newsletter Fintech Takes. They discuss the importance of Stablecoin as it's related to the banking industry and why community banks should pay attention to it. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
After nearly 20 years dedicated to James Cameron's groundbreaking Avatar saga, virtual production supervising stage operator Dan Fowler joins host Chris Nichols in the garage for a deep dive into his incredible 30-year career. Dan recounts his journey from being the drummer in a 90s hair metal band to becoming a key operator on one of the most technologically advanced film sets in history. This conversation is a rare, firsthand look into the evolution of modern filmmaking. Dan shares stories from the trenches, starting with his self-taught entry into VFX, his "rock and roll" days at Digital Domain in the late 90s, and the pivotal moment in 2005 when he joined the top-secret Avatar prototype project. He provides an insider's perspective on how the virtual production pipeline was built from the ground up, the immense pressure of working alongside James Cameron, and what it was like to solve unprecedented technical challenges in real-time. Dan Fowler and IMDB > Dan Fowler on LinkedIn > Avatar: The Way of Water - Capturing Pandora > Episode 518 - Scott Ross: "You Got It Wrong About James Cameron" > Episode 510 - Industry Roundtable — James Cameron, AI, Sinners, and Indie films >
We chat with Nichols & Thron about their careers and their new venture, SIGGRAPH highlights, and the future of filmmaking -- gaussian splats and all.
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text! The Naked Texture Artist is a podcast where VFX/animation veterans have deep and honest conversations about their challenges and growth as working artists.Marking our 2 year anniversary, here is a public service announcement about where The Naked Texture Artist podcast is going:Going forward, we are moving to video. Regarding The Naked Pixels, I am scaling back the release schedule. Find my reasoning and the background information in this episode.The Naked Texture Artist is produced by Marque Pierre Sondergaard. Support us on https://ko-fi.com/thenakedtextureartist Contact us on thenakedtextureartist@gmail.com Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtextureartist/ Music copyright belongs to Tycho for the song Awake - https://tychomusic.com/ Additional sound effects from https://www.zapsplat.com
Episode 515 marks the very first CG Garage Podcast episode under the Monstrous Moonshine banner, and it's a big reset moment. Chris is joined by longtime collaborator Daniel Thron and new producer/coordinator Lily Nichols to introduce this new chapter. Together, they reflect on the origins of the Monstrous Moonshine name, its ties to both 1970s cinema and mathematics, and why it represents the kind of creative synchronicity they want to bring into filmmaking. They also talk openly about the transition from Chaos, where the podcast began 11 years ago, and what this move means for the future of the show. The discussion quickly moves into the state of the movie industry today, with the group debating whether Hollywood is on the brink of another “New Hollywood” moment like the late 1960s. They examine the rise of bold new films such as Everything Everywhere All at Once, Spider-Verse, K-Pop Demon Hunters, and Godzilla Minus One, contrasting them with the fatigue of endless franchises. The conversation also tackles AI's role in the future of production, the pressures on young filmmakers, and why risk-taking is once again the only way forward. It's both a reflection and a rallying cry: a podcast looking back at its roots while leaning hard into the future of filmmaking. Monstrous Moonshine > CG Garage > Ray Tracing FTW >
Today our own Chris Nichols sits down with Jaye Eubanks from United Bank in Georgia. Jaye shares how he and his team use the "EOS" operating system to increase team productivity and performance. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
Our last set of poolside interviews from Modernism Week 2025 features three fun and exciting author pairs: Corey and Margeret Bienert on midcentury motels, Jonathan Schroeder and Janet Borgerson on instructional records, and Adriene Biondo and Chris Nichols on the sporting craze of the 1950's - bowling!
Today our own Chris Nichols sits down with Nathan Stovall from S&P Global Market Intelligence. They discuss current trends in the banking industry including the outlook for deposit growth and costs, the forecast for credit quality, bank M&A, regulation, and many other great topics. Learn more about The Deposit Conference! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. – Member FDIC
Today our own Chris Nichols sits down with Raphael Reznek, Chief Technology Officer of Mascoma Bank. They discuss bank architecture and focus on leveraging technology to your bank's benefit in the current, evolving world around AI. Learn more about and register for Elevate here! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. – Member FDIC
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text! On The Naked Texture Artist, I have deep and honest conversations with working artists.Here is a snippet, which is genuinely useful advice for any artist:Chris Nichols explains, "how he copes with stress" in a hectic career in the film industry. Enjoy!If that was useful for you, feel free to share the podcast with your friends and colleagues. I would appreciate your help.You can catch the full conversation on The Naked Texture Artist, wherever you get your podcasts.Thanks for listening!The Naked Texture Artist is produced by Marque Pierre Sondergaard. Support us on https://ko-fi.com/thenakedtextureartist Contact us on thenakedtextureartist@gmail.com Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtextureartist/ Music copyright belongs to Tycho for the song Awake - https://tychomusic.com/ Additional sound effects from https://www.zapsplat.com
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text! The Naked Texture Artist is a podcast where VFX/animation veterans have deep and honest conversations about their challenges and growth as working artists. Welcome to the sixth and penultimate slice from my conversation with the Dragon Lady. In this part I finally bring up the reason I wanted to talk to her: Is Myriam Catrin the world's best texture artist? Her work speaks for itself, but more than ability and talents, it is Myriam's humanity that make her one of the great and truly special artists. I am sure you will agree, when you have listened to her take on all the greatness talk. There is no sunshine without occasional darkness: Myriam shares a very personal episode, where her work broke her and how she managed to steer herself back to health again. If you want to know the innerworkings of one of the best texture artists in VFX today, the highs and the lows, Myriam shares very generously and fearlessly of her experience. Enjoy! Myriam is a fantastic artist, who's work and interests reach far beyond VFX. Do yourself a favour, please, and explore and support the amazing work Myriam also does: https://www.artstation.com/myriamcatrin Sadly her amazing comic book, Passages, is currently sold out. But look out for new print runs here: https://shop.publicdomain.paris/product/passages-myriam-catrin Myriam has also recently contributed beautiful artwork to the Modern Calligraphy Bible: https://schifferbooks.com/products/modern-calligraphy-bible As well as the exciting project Nariko's Voyage, which is in development for TV: https://www.narikosvoyage.com/ We also talk about the multi-facetted Martin Hill, who's excellent pottery can be found here: https://www.martinhillceramics.com/ Hokusai of legend: https://images.app.goo.gl/S1PvUoHf7wVptqNJ6 We refer back to Steven Pressfield's indispensable book The War of Art. Read it many, many times. It will enable you to do your best work: https://stevenpressfield.com/books/the-war-of-art/ Myriam refers to the breakthrough style of Alberto Mielgo, who of course created the seminal Jibaro episode for Love Death + Robots https://www.albertomielgo.com/ The Naked Texture Artist is produced by Marque Pierre Sondergaard. Support us on https://ko-fi.com/thenakedtextureartist Contact us on thenakedtextureartist@gmail.com Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtextureartist/ Music copyright belongs to Tycho for the song Awake - https://tychomusic.com/ Additional sound effects from https://www.zapsplat.com
In This Episode Today, we bring you a special episode of Breaking Banks, live from the Alloy Labs Annual Member Meeting —a three-day event focused on critical discussions and deep strategy sessions for today's bank executives. While we can't disclose what was said behind closed doors, we can share some of the critical (and fiery!) conversations and topics that executives need to be thinking about and discussing, some of which we asked and addressed in this special recording. Host Jason Henrichs brings the sauce and is joined by recognized industry voices and Hot Takes contributors Kia Haslett from Bank Director, Alex Johnson of Fintech Takes, and Chris Nichols, Director of Capital Markets at South State Bank and writer of South State's Banker to Banker blog. Leave us a comment on LinkedIn about what you liked, and you may just find yourself the winner of one of the limited-edition Hot Takes hot sauces the panelists enjoyed! First come, first served on the sauce (while supplies last). Don't delay—listen now and join the discussion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mr4Y_eTI_O8
As the longtime senior editor of Los Angeles magazine, Chris Nichols has accumulated more knowledge about this city than anyone else we know. As an author and frequent tour guide, he loves sharing his discoveries, which is why his newest book BowlaRama (Angel City Press, written with Adriene Biondo) is so much fun. Leonard and Jessie enjoy diving into the fad-like growth of bowling alleys in the Baby Boom years of the 1950s and early 1960s. (Leonard is still mourning the loss of his Pepsi Cola bowling team shirt.) Chris's enthusiasm for everything he does is positively infectious.
Chris Nichols welcomes a very special guest to this episode of The Savvy Adjuster Podcast: Damon Stafford, Alpine Intel's CEO. Damon talks about the philosophies he lays out in his book, Believe in Better: The Evolution of Core Principles That Pioneered an Industry, in which he draws upon his decades of experience to share tips about how leaders can succeed, particularly in the evolving insurance industry, by demonstrating core values, embracing innovation, and getting the most out of your team. Discussed in This EpisodeHow establishing and demonstrating core values drives successBecoming an industry leader through innovation and persistenceOffering encouragement and avoiding echo chambers within a leadership teamHow insurance leaders can respond to key challengesAdditional ResourcesAlpine Intel: https://bit.ly/3R9P2bfBelieve in Better: https://bit.ly/3Gd3EEmAdditional Insurance Leadership Resources:Article: Insurance Industry Trends 2025: Bolstering Policyholder Trust: https://bit.ly/3G0NT3wGuide: Claims Managers' Road Map to Efficiency: https://bit.ly/4jo3dWfArticle: How Managers Can Strengthen Adjuster Support and Boost Retention: https://bit.ly/4jscEnK
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text! On The Naked Texture Artist, I have deep and honest conversations with working artists.Here is a snippet, which is genuinely useful advice for any artist:Mr. Thanos, Chris Nichols explains, "what makes a good reel to help a beginner break into the industry?"Enjoy!If that was useful for you, feel free to share the podcast with your friends and colleagues. I would appreciate your help.You can catch the full conversation on The Naked Texture Artist, wherever you get your podcasts.Thanks for listening!The Naked Texture Artist is produced by Marque Pierre Sondergaard. Support us on https://ko-fi.com/thenakedtextureartist Contact us on thenakedtextureartist@gmail.com Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/thenakedtextureartist/ Music copyright belongs to Tycho for the song Awake - https://tychomusic.com/ Additional sound effects from https://www.zapsplat.com
Today our own Chris Nichols sits down with Mike Fletcher, President and Co-Founder of Qualtik, to discuss the latest trends in commercial credit. TAKE THE ARC GUIDED TOUR HERE The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
By leveraging emerging technologies and standardized data frameworks, federal health leaders can enhance real-time decision-making and deliver more efficient, patient-centered care. Chris Nichols, program manager for the Enterprise Intelligence and Data Solutions (EIDS) program for the Program Executive Office at Defense Healthcare Management Systems (DHMS), joined us during HIMSS to discuss his vision of data-driven health care in the military. He shares insights into recent milestones in health data interoperability, the next steps in seamless and secure information sharing, and how public-private partnerships can drive innovation while ensuring regulatory compliance. Nichols also dives into how emerging technologies can enhance patient care and improve health outcomes across the defense health care system.
Today, SouthState's Chris Nichols sits down with Steve Ramirez, Founder of Beyond the Arc, where they offer B2B payment strategies for banks. They discuss the current trends and best practices for how banks can market payments. GET OUR NEW EBOOK: TOP 12 WINNING STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY BANKS IN 2025 The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
National Fire Experts Certified Fire Investigator Mark Howard once again sits down with The Savvy Adjuster Podcast host Chris Nichols to talk about kitchen fires. This time, they're exploring what makes commercial kitchen fire investigations different from residential ones, including the equipment and additional parties more likely to be involved in fire claims impacting hotel, restaurant, or cafeteria kitchens.Additional Resources Alpine Intel Resource Page: https://bit.ly/3EUvdC1National Fire Experts: https://bit.ly/4hTHkxAAdditional Commercial Kitchen Fire Resources: Case Study: Certified Fire Protection Specialist: Investigating a Restaurant Fire: https://bit.ly/41v7CAsArticle: Commercial Losses: Hotel and Motel Fire Causes and Investigations: https://bit.ly/4bfcAEWArticle: How Proper Maintenance Can Help Prevent a Restaurant Kitchen Fire: https://bit.ly/4gUoN2V
Meet Chris Nichols; his adventurous spirit has led him all across the country, working a variety of jobs before finding his true calling in becoming a coach to help people. An incredible conversation on leadership, growth, and how to become the best version of yourself. Book a meeting with Chris: https://calendly.com/chrisnicholscoaching
Join host Chris Nichols in this episode of The Savvy Adjuster Podcast as he chats with National Fire Experts (NFE) Certified Fire Investigator Mark Howard about residential kitchen fires, including range top and cooktop fires. You'll learn how NFE's systematic approach to fire investigation helps answer questions adjusters ask about each unique claim. Chris and Mark will also discuss common kitchen fire causes, what interviews can contribute to an investigation, and much more.Discussed in This EpisodeConcerns from different types of adjusters handling kitchen fire claimsCommon kitchen fire causesThe NFE approach to fire investigationsWhat fire patterns can tell usEvidence testing and management for fire investigationsReal examples of kitchen fire claim investigationsAdditional ResourcesAlpine Intel Resource Page: https://bit.ly/4gwcZDSNational Fire Experts: https://bit.ly/3ELU0ryAdditional Fraud Investigation Resources:Article: 5 Questions To Ask After a Kitchen Fire: https://bit.ly/4aXKCNHGuide: Your Guide To Decoding Range Top Fires: https://bit.ly/3QcC9MWWebinar Recording: Investigating Residential Kitchen Fires: https://bit.ly/3WVRGVe
Today we sit down with Chris Nichols and Ed Kofman. They discuss our e-book, "The Top 12 Winning Strategies for Community Banks in 2025," going into detail on the principles to succeed this year. GET OUR NEW EBOOK: TOP 12 WINNING STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY BANKS IN 2025 The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
In 2025's first episode of The Savvy Adjuster Podcast, host Chris Nichols welcomes VRC Investigations' Vice President of SIU Compliance and CE Programs Curtis Whitfill to delve into the importance of scene investigations. Find out what red flags adjusters notice that may indicate the need for an expert, techniques VRC employs to get the evidence to verify claim facts, parties they interview, and more.Discussed in This EpisodeTypes of claims that benefit most from scene investigationsRed flags that may indicate fraudScene investigations vs. desk reviewsHow investigators identify people to interviewAdditional examples from real scene investigationsAdditional ResourcesAlpine Intel Resource Page: https://bit.ly/4jjnxsqVRC Investigations: https://bit.ly/3PyMtPhAdditional Fraud Investigation Resources:Guide: Ethical Red Flags Associated with Property Claims: https://bit.ly/4jvDFaLArticle: Combatting Property Loss Claims Leakage: https://bit.ly/4al69iXSelf-Study Course (1 hour): https://bit.ly/3CcUdmR
In our final episode of 2024, Chris Nichols sits down with Steve Smith from Accenture to discuss the future of bank branching. GET OUR NEW EBOOK: TOP 12 WINNING STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY BANKS IN 2025 The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
In today's episode, I sit down with Chris Nichols of The Nichols and Dimez Show, where he uncovers the unique intersections of tech, sports, and business. We talk about the strategic role of venture capital and the importance of building quantitative value into every pitch, a skill that became my cornerstone as I transitioned from tech to CEO of a global sports agency. Chris and I also explore the differences between being a founder and a CEO, the unexpected lessons from past mentors, and the power of leveraging relationships. From sports to startups, we dive into the mindset that creates lasting impact and growth.
On this episode of The Savvy Adjuster Podcast, host Chris Nichols is joined by Donan's Principal Forensic Engineer Rich Grimshaw and Senior Project Engineer Alec Haugdahl to discuss the huge topic of water intrusion, leaks, and other sources of water damage to structural components. Learn from their expertise and experience about internal and external water sources, which structural elements are more vulnerable to moisture damage, and what adjusters should ask when water is a suspected cause of loss.Discussed in This EpisodeCommon sources for damage from waterStructural elements susceptible to water damageHow experts assess reported water damageWhat adjusters should consider before settling structural water claimsReal examples of structural water damage assessmentsAdditional ResourcesAbout Alpine Intel: https://bit.ly/4hzoyMmAlpine Intel Resource Page: https://bit.ly/4hzoCf4Additional Structural Water Loss ResourcesCase Study: Basement Water Intrusion Claim: https://bit.ly/3CgZhX0Article: Moisture-Related Drywall Losses: https://bit.ly/4fe84YuGuide: How Building Material Type Makes a Difference in Flood Claims: https://bit.ly/4fbaBCP
Today we feature our final backstage episode from the Elevate Banking Forum. Chris Nichols (Director of Capital Markets at SouthState) and Nathan Stovall (Director of Financial Institutions Research at S&P Global Market Intelligence) discuss the current state of the banking industry. Download the Presentation Slide Deck Here The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
Senior National Fire Experts Account Executive Kathleen Riley and NFE Fire Operations Manager John Hill join host Chris Nichols again to talk fire investigations. Specifically, they delve into how both adjusters and certified fire investigators can collect and analyze witness statements – even when stories change or don't support the facts of the claim. Listen on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.Additional ResourcesAbout Alpine Intel: https://bit.ly/3Th6njRAlpine Intel Resource Page: https://bit.ly/47knabOAdditional Fire Investigation Resources:eBook: Tackling Large Loss Fire Claims with Subrogation Potential: https://bit.ly/3AQUcUNArticle: 5 Questions to Ask After a Kitchen Fire: https://bit.ly/3ZaAhKtInteractive Guide: How NFE Investigates Fires: An Inside Look at the 11-Step Process: https://bit.ly/3XcqDVd
Let's take a trip down memory lane and eventually find ourselves parked in front of our favorite outdoor movie screen. That's right, we're talking about the history of drive-in movie theaters, how they were popularized within car culture and their eventual downfall. The COVID-19 pandemic resurrected interest in drive-ins and some continue to operate today, including in Southern California. But it's nothing like its heyday. Joining to discuss is April Wright, director of the documentaries Going Attractions: The Definitive Story of the American Drive-in Movie and Back to the Drive-in, and Chris Nichols, senior editor at L.A. Magazine. We also want to hear from you! Tell us your favorite drive-in memories. What was your favorite theater and what made it so special? What was your experience? Call 866-893-5722 or email atcomments@laist.com.
How has Sacramento's record-breaking hot summer compared to historical averages. Analyzing the recently-released forensic examination into CapRadio's finances. Finally, taking stock of the Sacramento Kings' offseason. Unusually High Summer Heat Sacramento has seen a record-breaking stretch of heat this summer, with multiple days soaring into the triple digits. KCRA Meteorologist and Climate Reporter Heather Waldman talks about why the days (and nights) have been so warm, how this summer compares to historical averages and records, and if any relief is on the horizon. CapRadio Forensic Examination Analysis A highly-anticipated forensic examination into Capital Public Radio's finances was released on Monday by Sacramento State. The redacted summary focused heavily on prior leadership at the public media station, and found several instances of misuse of funds and conflicts of interest at CapRadio, which is an auxiliary of the university. Insight producer Jen Picard joins host Chris Nichols to break the exam's findings, and lay out a timeline of how the station found itself in a financial crisis. Following NPR's protocol for reporting on itself, no CapRadio corporate official or news executive reviewed this segment prior to airing. Kings Offseason Review The Sacramento Kings broke a 16-year playoff drought during the 2022-23 season but missed out on returning to the playoffs a year later. Fox40 Sports Reporter Sean Cunningham discusses how the Kings have been retooling during the offseason, from inking coach Mike Brown to a multi-year extension, to landing All-Star DeMar DeRozan and re-signing guard Malik Monk.
In this special edition of The Savvy Adjuster Podcast, host Chris Nichols is joined by Ema Roloff, cofounder of Roloff Consulting. Using her years of experience influencing the digital transformation of the insurance industry, Ema answers pressing questions about the future of AI for claims processing as technology grows and changes. Find out how carriers can combine these developments with a human touch to streamline processes and deliver exemplary customer service.Disclaimer: The views expressed by third-party guests of The Savvy Adjuster Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts and opinions of Alpine Intel or this podcast. The material presented is for general informational purposes only.Discussed in This EpisodeThe growing significance of AIHow adjusting jobs will change as technology developsHow digital changes affect customer serviceHow carriers can use digital literacy to streamline processesExamples of how to leverage and grow AI in insurance claimsAdditional ResourcesAbout Alpine Intel: https://bit.ly/3LUenTMAlpine Intel Resource Page: https://bit.ly/4cfxrXtAdditional Digital Literacy Resources:Roloff Consulting Digital Literacy Resources: https://bit.ly/46FfBfaArticle: Advantages of Smart Technology and IoT As Related to Insurance Claims: https://bit.ly/4ck045IArticle: 3 Ways Carriers Should Blend Automation and the Human Touch: https://bit.ly/4ddE3XB
Chad Wanstreet and Chris Nichols have experienced similar career trajectories — but this is the first time they've sat down together. Like Chris, Chad transitioned from architecture to VFX, and his experience spans working at notable firms including Blur Studio and FuseFX. Along the way, Chad has contributed to projects that pushed the boundaries of visual effects, such as The Sympathizer, SWAT, The Tick, and the short-lived but brilliant Kill the Orange-Faced Bear. Chad discusses the challenges and innovations brought by technological advancements, such as virtual production and real-time ray tracing, and highlights the importance of understanding these tools. Additionally, Chad shares personal anecdotes about the highs and lows of his career, including the struggles during the economic downturn of 2008 and the unexpected opportunities that led him to his current role.
In today's episode Emily Interviews her friend Chris, host of the Nichols and Dimez show. They dive into Chris' journey over the past year hosting his show, including the personal growth, change in mindset, and lessons learned from interviewing 50 entrepreneurs. Chris shares how surrounding himself with certain communities, like jiu-jitsu, has shaped his values and perspectives. And Emily and Chris banter about the importance of injecting humor and 'romanticizing your life' even as an entrepreneur on a serious mission. With aligned outlooks on living with intention, they explore how practices like journaling and cold plunging prime them to show up fully. Ultimately, Chris credits the podcast for pushing him to take smart risks and evolve. And he thanks Emily for being an early inspiring force encouraging him to lean into his voice and step into uncertainty on this path. Their infectious energy and drive makes you want to embrace your own capabilities. Today's Key Points: 1. Identifying Your Vision 2. The Power Of Committing To Your Decision 3. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 4. Loneliness 5. Support & Community 6. What Holds People Back 7. Exposure to a Different Reality 8. Where His Creativity Started 9. Hawaiian Values: Strength & Humility 10. His JiuJitsu Journey +so much more! Connect with Chris Here: www.Youtube.com/nicholsanddimezshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholsanddimez/ Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nichols-and-dimez-show/id1667715105 Connect with Emily Here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyhayden/ https://stan.store/EmilyHayden TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emilyhayden_ Subscribe to The Evolve With Emily Show here: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3v10YPs iTunes: https://apple.co/3aqW5Ye Soundcloud: https://bit.ly/3dtNINp