Recorded at a location near AOBA 2026, this Fintech Hustle episode brings guests Aleda DeMaria (EVP & Chief Operating Officer, PeoplesBank), Mac Thompson (Founder & CEO, White Clay) & Christina Miller (VP, Alkami) for an unscripted hallway conversation on what’s changing right now. Key topics include:Deposit retention after massive outflows and why “acquisition” is not the finish lineAI everywhere, including fraud, and why banks must fight AI with AIVendor consolidation and the reality of fragmented tech stacksData strategy as a growth engine, not just a compliance toolWhy the branch still matters and how to modernize the in-branch experienceThe talent challenge for community banks trying to innovateA clear warning: community banks should stop trying to build what mega-banks build, and focus on partnerships and executionLet us know what theme you’re hearing most in your institution right now.Click to watch more Fintech Hustle!🔗  https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/fintech-hustle/  Connect with Sam on LinkedIn:🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkilmer/