In the latest episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar interviewed Caitlin Brama, the CEO of Farm Credit Employees Federal Credit Union. Brama shared her unconventional journey to becoming a credit union CEO, highlighting her transition from a branch manager role and the challenges she faced along the way. Her story underscored the importance of resilience and adaptability in the financial sector. Brama emphasized the need for credit unions to stay relevant by doubling down on their core mission and continually self-evaluating their decisions. She discussed the significance of e ..read more

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, Josh DeTar welcomed Debbie Miglaw, Vice President of Digital Solutions and Business Development at Broadridge. Miglaw shared her unique journey from being a national champion in velodrome track racing to excelling in digital solutions and business development. Her early experiences in competitive cycling instilled in her valuable skills like discipline, focus, and creativity, which she later channeled into her professional career. DeTar and Miglaw delved into the complexities of modern communication and engagement in the financial sector. Miglaw ..read more

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar spoke with Evgeny Filichkin from Keytom. Evgeny shared his journey from Russia to Dubai, exploring the evolution of his career in cryptocurrency and alternative trading. He explained why Dubai has become a premier hub for crypto startups, citing its favorable legal infrastructure and vibrant, innovative community. Filichkin elaborated on the benefits of Dubai's regulatory environment, which fostered growth for crypto businesses by providing fast, cost-effective ways to establish legal infrastructure. He contrasted this with the re ..read more

In this episode of Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar interviewed Zach Eychaner, VP of Digital Experience at ELGA Credit Union. They explored the crucial role of digital strategy in credit unions, emphasizing the need for personalized member experiences and the importance of staying true to the organization's mission. Eychaner shared his insights on how technology can help credit unions serve their members better without losing the personal touch that defines them. Eychaner discussed the challenges and opportunities credit unions face in the digital age. He highlighted the importance of ..read more

In this episode of The Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomed Mike Tranum, CIO of DuPont Community Credit Union, for an engaging discussion on risk management, innovation, and member experience. Tranum emphasized the value of diverse generational experiences in corporate problem-solving, sharing personal anecdotes about his unique approach to projects and professional challenges. The conversation explored the dynamics of risk perception, with Tranum using analogies like skiing and hot air balloons to illustrate how familiarity shapes decision-making in financial institutions. He hi ..read more

In this insightful episode of Digital Banking Podcast, Josh DeTar sits down with Mike Lawson, host of CUBroadcast, to delve into the evolving landscape of credit unions. Lawson shares his unique perspective on the industry, highlighting the importance of data analytics in shaping personalized services. He emphasizes that understanding members on an individual level is now more achievable and crucial than ever. The conversation then shifts to the topic of leadership. Lawson discusses the changing dynamics as established CEOs retire, making way for a new generation of leaders with fresh outlooks ..read more

In this engaging episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar spoke with Eric Schurr, Chief Strategy Officer at Sunrise Banks. The conversation began with Schurr drawing an intriguing parallel between his hobby of creating stained glass and strategic planning in banking. He explained how both activities require vision, patience, and adaptability, reflecting the dynamic nature of managing strategy within the financial sector. Schurr delved into his role as a futurist, emphasizing the importance of foresight in shaping business development and innovation at Sunrise Banks. He discusse ..read more

In a thought-provoking episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomed Stephen Baker, CEO at Kinective, for an in-depth conversation on the evolution of digital and physical banking. DeTar and Baker explored the significant impact community financial institutions (FIs) have on their localities and the fear that these critical entities might vanish without technological adaptation and innovation. Baker shared his journey from the tech sector to the banking industry, emphasizing his commitment to leading a company that not only drives industry innovation but also cultivates a wo ..read more

In this enlightening episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, Josh DeTar welcomed Monique Little of First Tech Federal Credit Union and Nate LaMora of Ground Up Coffee Shop. The trio discussed the innovative collaboration between a credit union and a local coffee shop designed to empower students and support community financial institutions. Through this partnership, they’ve created a model that benefits both the community and the participating students, providing them with invaluable real-world business experience. Little shared the background of First Tech Federal Credit Union’s commitment t ..read more

In this episode of the Digital Banking Podcast, host Josh DeTar welcomed Brian Kaas, Managing Director at TruStage Ventures, for an insightful discussion on the intersection of fintech investments and community financial partnerships. Drawing from his rich background, Kaas shared his experiences and the significant role that venture capital plays in the innovation and advancement of the banking sector.  The conversation delved into how strategic investments and partnerships are essential for keeping credit unions and community banks competitive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Kaas ..read more