On this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomed Melanie Kennedy, CEO of Southwest Financial Federal Credit Union to discuss her credit union&apos;s journey to becoming a fully digital institution. This transition, planned before the pandemic, accelerated when COVID-19 forced widespread closures. She explained the operational efficiencies gained, the surprisingly positive member response, and the improved work-life balance for her team.Kennedy addressed the challenges of running a small credit union in a competitive landscape. She emphasized the importance of maximizing resources and embracing new technologies. She highlighted her credit union&apos;s use of AI for streamlining communications and creating an internal knowledge library for increased efficiency. Kennedy also touched upon the importance of maintaining member relationships in a digital-first environment, emphasizing communication through text, secure messaging, and phone calls.The conversation explored the evolving nature of member expectations and the adoption of digital tools. Kennedy and DeTar discussed the cultural shift towards digital banking, accelerated by the pandemic. They considered the future of digital banking and the need for credit unions to adapt to changing member needs.

<description>&lt;p&gt;On this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomed Melanie Kennedy, CEO of Southwest Financial Federal Credit Union to discuss her credit union&amp;apos;s journey to becoming a fully digital institution. This transition, planned before the pandemic, accelerated when COVID-19 forced widespread closures. She explained the operational efficiencies gained, the surprisingly positive member response, and the improved work-life balance for her team.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Kennedy addressed the challenges of running a small credit union in a competitive landscape. She emphasized the importance of maximizing resources and embracing new technologies. She highlighted her credit union&amp;apos;s use of AI for streamlining communications and creating an internal knowledge library for increased efficiency. Kennedy also touched upon the importance of maintaining member relationships in a digital-first environment, emphasizing communication through text, secure messaging, and phone calls.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The conversation explored the evolving nature of member expectations and the adoption of digital tools. Kennedy and DeTar discussed the cultural shift towards digital banking, accelerated by the pandemic. They considered the future of digital banking and the need for credit unions to adapt to changing member needs.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

On this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomed Melanie Kennedy, CEO of Southwest Financial Federal Credit Union to discuss her credit union's journey to becoming a fully digital institution. This transition, planned before the pandemic, accelerated when COVID-19 forced widespread closures. She explained the operational efficiencies gained, the surprisingly positive member response, and the improved work-life balance for her team. Kennedy addressed the challenges of r...

Building a Digital-First Credit Union Culture with Melanie Kennedy

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomes Kim Butler, founder of Prosperity Thinkers, to discuss the importance of financial education and the path to financial freedom. Kim explains how her early experiences with money shaped her passion for helping others build solid financial foundations, emphasizing the significance of savings, both for emergencies and opportunities.The conversation dives into why personal financial literacy is so crucial, yet often overlooked. Kim shares her perspective on the critical role of community financial institutions in guiding people toward better financial health, and why many traditional budgeting methods fall short. She highlights how small changes in mindset and habits can lead to significant long-term benefits.Kim also introduces her work with Prosperity Parents, helping families teach financial competency from a young age. The episode offers valuable insights into reshaping financial perspectives and laying the groundwork for lasting wealth and stability across generations.

<description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomes Kim Butler, founder of Prosperity Thinkers, to discuss the importance of financial education and the path to financial freedom. Kim explains how her early experiences with money shaped her passion for helping others build solid financial foundations, emphasizing the significance of savings, both for emergencies and opportunities.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The conversation dives into why personal financial literacy is so crucial, yet often overlooked. Kim shares her perspective on the critical role of community financial institutions in guiding people toward better financial health, and why many traditional budgeting methods fall short. She highlights how small changes in mindset and habits can lead to significant long-term benefits.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Kim also introduces her work with Prosperity Parents, helping families teach financial competency from a young age. The episode offers valuable insights into reshaping financial perspectives and laying the groundwork for lasting wealth and stability across generations.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomes Kim Butler, founder of Prosperity Thinkers, to discuss the importance of financial education and the path to financial freedom. Kim explains how her early experiences with money shaped her passion for helping others build solid financial foundations, emphasizing the significance of savings, both for emergencies and opportunities. The conversation dives into why personal financial literacy is so crucial, yet often overloo...

Why Financial Education Should Start Early with Kim Butler

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar sits down with Scott Fieber, Chief Strategy Officer at Cook Solutions Group, to discuss the evolving landscape of community financial institutions (FIs). Scott shares insights on the unique challenges these organizations face, from navigating legacy technology to combating increasingly sophisticated fraud. With his deep understanding of the industry, Scott offers practical tips for fostering innovation and improving security in a competitive market. A central theme is the importance of collaboration—both internally within organizations and externally with trusted vendors. Scott highlights how community FIs can maximize existing technologies, avoid vendor lock-ins, and prioritize partnerships that align with their core values. Through real-world examples, he explains how creative problem-solving and leveraging existing tools can drive impactful results. The episode also delves into the broader implications of AI and technology in the financial sector. Scott emphasizes the need for adaptability in the face of rapid innovation, sharing his optimism for the future while addressing the ongoing battle against fraud. From gold jackets to gang deterrence in Central America, Scott’s stories illustrate a commitment to service, innovation, and making meaningful change.

<description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar sits down with Scott Fieber, Chief Strategy Officer at Cook Solutions Group, to discuss the evolving landscape of community financial institutions (FIs). Scott shares insights on the unique challenges these organizations face, from navigating legacy technology to combating increasingly sophisticated fraud. With his deep understanding of the industry, Scott offers practical tips for fostering innovation and improving security in a competitive market.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;A central theme is the importance of collaboration—both internally within organizations and externally with trusted vendors. Scott highlights how community FIs can maximize existing technologies, avoid vendor lock-ins, and prioritize partnerships that align with their core values. Through real-world examples, he explains how creative problem-solving and leveraging existing tools can drive impactful results.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;The episode also delves into the broader implications of AI and technology in the financial sector. Scott emphasizes the need for adaptability in the face of rapid innovation, sharing his optimism for the future while addressing the ongoing battle against fraud. From gold jackets to gang deterrence in Central America, Scott’s stories illustrate a commitment to service, innovation, and making meaningful change.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar sits down with Scott Fieber, Chief Strategy Officer at Cook Solutions Group, to discuss the evolving landscape of community financial institutions (FIs). Scott shares insights on the unique challenges these organizations face, from navigating legacy technology to combating increasingly sophisticated fraud. With his deep understanding of the industry, Scott offers practical tips for fostering innovation and improving security in a...

The Evolving Role of Security in Banking with Scott Fieber

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar is joined by Har Rai Khalsa, CEO and Co-Founder of Swaystack, to explore the evolving landscape of customer acquisition and retention in community financial institutions. Har Rai shares his unique journey, from his upbringing rooted in community values to his entrepreneurial career focused on enhancing the financial ecosystem. Together, they dive into what it takes for credit unions and community banks to compete with fintechs and mega banks in delivering seamless, user-friendly digital experiences.Har Rai emphasizes the importance of defining “financial primacy” and aligning product strategies to meet customer expectations. He discusses how digital tools, when designed with the customer in mind, can transform onboarding and deepen engagement. From leveraging data for personalized insights to reducing friction in digital interactions, Har Rai highlights actionable strategies that financial institutions can adopt to stay relevant.The conversation also touches on the role of innovation in bridging the gap between fintechs and community financial institutions. Har Rai shares examples of how intuitive product design and thoughtful customer engagement can foster trust and long-term relationships. This episode is a must-listen for industry professionals looking to navigate the complexities of modern digital banking.

<description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar is joined by Har Rai Khalsa, CEO and Co-Founder of Swaystack, to explore the evolving landscape of customer acquisition and retention in community financial institutions. Har Rai shares his unique journey, from his upbringing rooted in community values to his entrepreneurial career focused on enhancing the financial ecosystem. Together, they dive into what it takes for credit unions and community banks to compete with fintechs and mega banks in delivering seamless, user-friendly digital experiences.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Har Rai emphasizes the importance of defining “financial primacy” and aligning product strategies to meet customer expectations. He discusses how digital tools, when designed with the customer in mind, can transform onboarding and deepen engagement. From leveraging data for personalized insights to reducing friction in digital interactions, Har Rai highlights actionable strategies that financial institutions can adopt to stay relevant.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The conversation also touches on the role of innovation in bridging the gap between fintechs and community financial institutions. Har Rai shares examples of how intuitive product design and thoughtful customer engagement can foster trust and long-term relationships. This episode is a must-listen for industry professionals looking to navigate the complexities of modern digital banking.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar is joined by Har Rai Khalsa, CEO and Co-Founder of Swaystack, to explore the evolving landscape of customer acquisition and retention in community financial institutions. Har Rai shares his unique journey, from his upbringing rooted in community values to his entrepreneurial career focused on enhancing the financial ecosystem. Together, they dive into what it takes for credit unions and community banks to compete with fintechs an...

Why Community FIs Must Rethink Customer Retention with Har Rai Khalsa

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar sits down with Laszlo Tallai to explore the unique ways credit unions can stand out in the digital age and redefine member experiences. Laszlo delves into the power of humor and unconventional approaches, sharing how a lighthearted April Fool&apos;s prank turned into a viral campaign, sparking fresh ideas about member engagement.The conversation highlights the urgent need for digital transformation in credit unions. Laszlo addresses the barriers posed by legacy systems and offers strategies for adopting a “digital-first” mindset that makes banking simpler and more intuitive. He emphasizes the importance of integrating new technology in member journeys to compete with big banks and fintechs.Finally, Josh and Laszlo discuss how credit unions can resonate with younger members by updating terminology and embracing user-friendly, relatable communication. As member demographics shift, adapting to new language and cultural expectations becomes essential for growth. Tune in to discover how credit unions can stay relevant and competitive in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

<description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar sits down with Laszlo Tallai to explore the unique ways credit unions can stand out in the digital age and redefine member experiences. Laszlo delves into the power of humor and unconventional approaches, sharing how a lighthearted April Fool&amp;apos;s prank turned into a viral campaign, sparking fresh ideas about member engagement.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The conversation highlights the urgent need for digital transformation in credit unions. Laszlo addresses the barriers posed by legacy systems and offers strategies for adopting a “digital-first” mindset that makes banking simpler and more intuitive. He emphasizes the importance of integrating new technology in member journeys to compete with big banks and fintechs.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Finally, Josh and Laszlo discuss how credit unions can resonate with younger members by updating terminology and embracing user-friendly, relatable communication. As member demographics shift, adapting to new language and cultural expectations becomes essential for growth. Tune in to discover how credit unions can stay relevant and competitive in an ever-evolving financial landscape.&lt;/p&gt;</description>

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar sits down with Laszlo Tallai to explore the unique ways credit unions can stand out in the digital age and redefine member experiences. Laszlo delves into the power of humor and unconventional approaches, sharing how a lighthearted April Fool's prank turned into a viral campaign, sparking fresh ideas about member engagement. The conversation highlights the urgent need for digital transformation in credit unions. Laszlo addresses ...

Building Credit Union Loyalty Through Humor and Innovation with Laszlo Tallai

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