Banking on Growth

Hosted by Midwestern Securities

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Sep 2026

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About the show

Banking on Growth is a podcast for bankers and financial advisors operating in community-based banks and credit unions. Throughout this podcast, we'll chat with financial industry professionals and thought leaders at the forefront of developing creative solutions to assist community banks in delivering financial advisory services to their clients with the goal of helping the institution grow. We'll examine the most recent industry developments, technology, and best practices for providing high-quality financial advice. Join us as we explore the world of investing through the community banking lens. Midwestern Securities is a member of FINRA/SIPC.

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36 recent

September 11, 2026Episode 3644 min

Why Relationship Banking Still Matters

Why do some community banks keep customers for generations while others struggle to compete? Learn how First Financial Bankshares built a 136-year legacy through exceptional service, disciplined leadership, and long-term relationship banking. In this episode of Banking on Growth , host Mike Graham sits down with Scott Dueser, Executive Chairman of First Financial Bankshares, to discuss the principles that have helped build one of the most respected community banking franchises in the country. With more than five decades of banking experience, Scott shares lessons on leadership, customer loyalty, wealth management, and creating sustainable shareholder value. Together, Mike and Scott explore what it takes to thrive in today's competitive financial services environment. From multi-generational client relationships and estate planning strategies to customer service standards and proactive sales culture, this conversation highlights why community banks still have a powerful advantage when they focus on people, trust, and long-term value creation. What You'll Learn in This Episode: We explore how First Financial Bankshares has maintained strong customer and shareholder loyalty for more than a century by building deep relationships across banking, wealth management, trust services, and estate planning. Scott shares how the bank's disciplined approach to acquisitions, employee development, and customer service has supported consistent growth while preserving its community banking culture. You'll also learn why sales should be viewed as education, how frontline employees can uncover opportunities through meaningful customer conversations, and why daily accountability plays a critical role in sustaining excellence. Scott explains how personalized service, direct accessibility, and intentional outreach continue to separate community banks from larger competitors. Whether you're focused on growing deposits, strengthening wealth management relationships, or improving organizational culture, this episode offers practical insights for long-term success. 🔗 Connect with Scott Dueser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdueser/ sdueser@ffin.com 365-627-7031 Learn more about First Financial Bankshares: https://www.ffin.com/ Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwestern-securities-trading-company-llc/ Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC. Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

May 8, 2026Episode 3543 min

Coffee with KlariVis: Turning Bank Data into Actionable Growth

Stop guessing and start leading. Learn how community banks use KlariVis to turn fragmented data into real-time visibility and a 10x return on efficiency. In this episode of Banking on Growth, host Mike Graham sits down with Kim Snyder, CEO and Founder of KlariVis, to explore how community banks and credit unions can unlock the full potential of their data. As a former community bank CFO, Kim shares how her experience led to solving one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: turning overwhelming, fragmented data into clear intelligence. For institutions competing in an increasingly complex financial landscape, the ability to see what’s happening—and act on it immediately—has never been more critical. Together, Mike and Kim discuss how moving beyond traditional reporting empowers leaders to act faster, reduce inefficiencies, and protect net interest margins. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: We explore how shifting from manual spreadsheets to dynamic dashboards can finally give bank leaders the real-time clarity they’ve been looking for. You’ll see how to transform daily loan and deposit trends into a clear strategy, spot where revenue might be leaking to fintech competitors, and even achieve a 10x return on efficiency through simple automation. We also share why you don’t need "perfect" data to start seeing results—it’s all about making progress today to improve your margins tomorrow. This conversation offers a friendly roadmap for turning your data into a genuine competitive advantage. 🔗 Learn More & Connect: Explore KlariVis: http://www.klarivis.com/ Connect with Kim Snyder: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlybsnyder/ Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

February 13, 2026Episode 3332 min

From Data to Dollars: How AI Is Transforming Organic Growth in Community Banking

What does real growth look like for financial advisors and wealth management teams in today’s competitive financial landscape? With rising client expectations and increasing competition, firms need smarter ways to prioritize prospects, streamline workflows, and grow assets under management without wasting time or budget. In this episode of Banking on Growth by Midwestern Securities, host Mike Graham sits down with Dan Gilmartin, CMO at Catchlight, to explore how AI-powered insights are transforming client acquisition, prospect scoring, and CRM automation. Learn how smarter data — not more data — helps advisors focus on the clients who matter most, personalize outreach, and drive meaningful ROI and long-term growth. Dan explains how Catchlight builds comprehensive client profiles from minimal information, identifies high-propensity prospects, and saves advisors hours each week through automated research and enrichment. Mike highlights how disciplined processes, intentional marketing, and data-driven strategies amplify these insights, turning incremental improvements into sustainable success for community banks, credit unions, and wealth management firms. ✨ In this episode, you’ll discover: • How AI-driven scoring helps advisors focus on high-propensity clients • Ways to personalize outreach using career, life-stage, and interest data • Why banks and advisors are shifting from broad campaigns to targeted, efficient marketing • How CRM integration and automation can save advisors up to 6 hours per week • Real examples of higher conversion rates, stronger LTV-to-CAC ratios, and long-term AUM growth • The role of disciplined processes, ongoing training, and workflow efficiency for consistent wins If you want to see how AI, data-driven insights, and strategic client acquisition can strengthen relationships, boost advisor productivity, and drive profitable growth, this episode is a must-watch for financial advisors, community bankers, and wealth management professionals. 🔗 Guest Links: • Website: https://catchlight.ai/ • Connect with Catchlight: https://www.linkedin.com/company/catchlight-insights/ • Connect with Dan Gilmartin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dangilmartin/ • Explore the Grow Organically Podcast: https://catchlight.ai/grow-organically-podcast ----- Find our episode on one of these podcast channels: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Podcast Index • Podcast Addict • Podchaser • Pocket Casts • Deezer • Listen Heart • PlayerFM For more information on strengthening your retail wealth management division, contact us, and let’s start talking! https://midwesternsecurities.com/contact/ Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

January 26, 2026Episode 3421 min

Square Is No Longer Just Payments: How Community Banks Can Defend the Full Wallet

Community banks face growing competition from fintech platforms like Square. Merchant services, deposits, and lending are all at risk, and many institutions underestimate how fast the shift is happening. Host Mike Graham, CEO of Midwestern Securities, is joined by Nellie Schlachter, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Evolv, a national provider of merchant services for banks and credit unions. With more than a decade of experience in bank management, Nellie brings a clear, insider perspective on how payment providers are expanding into full-service banking and why many financial institutions underestimate the risk. Together, Mike and Nellie break down how merchant services have become a frontline defense for community banks. They discuss how platforms like Square attract business customers with speed and convenience, how that opens the door to deposits and loans, and how banks can respond with stronger programs, better education, and more intentional outreach. You will also learn what a truly robust merchant services strategy looks like, how to identify customers already working with Square, and how banks can win back wallet share through smarter engagement. Links: Evolv Website Evolv on LinkedIn Nellie Schlachter on LinkedIn If you work with community banks, credit unions, or financial advisors, this conversation offers practical insights on defending relationships, driving non-interest income, and staying competitive in a rapidly changing financial services landscape. Watch the full video podcast Banking on Growth by Midwestern Securities for more conversations on growth, strategy, and the future of community banking. ----- Find our episode on one of these podcast channels: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Podcast Index • Podcast Addict • Podchaser • Pocket Casts • Deezer • Listen Heart • PlayerFM For more information on strengthening your retail wealth management division, contact us, and let’s start talking! https://midwesternsecurities.com/contact/ Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

December 5, 2025Episode 3249 min

What Planning Opportunities and Pitfalls Have Been Created by the One Big Beautiful Bill

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OB3) is here, but what does it actually mean for individuals, retirees, and business owners? In this episode of Banking on Growth , host Mike Graham sits down with Jason Beiswenger and Chris Lockhart from Wipfli LLP to unpack the sweeping tax changes that could reshape your 2025 financial strategy. From expanded SALT deductions and new Social Security breaks for seniors to full 100% bonus depreciation for business equipment and extended Qualified Business Income (QBI) deductions, this conversation breaks down where the real opportunities lie. You’ll also learn which provisions sunset early, which are permanent, and where the biggest planning pitfalls might be hiding. Whether you’re a financial advisor, small business owner, or retiree trying to understand how OB3 affects your bottom line, this episode offers practical insight to help you make smarter tax and investment decisions this year. Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

September 5, 2025Episode 3141 min

Discussing the GENIUS Act and Stablecoin

How will stablecoins and new legislation like the GENIUS Act reshape the future of community banking? 💡 In this episode of Banking on Growth, host Mike Graham sits down with Jim Perry, Senior Strategist at Market Insights, to explore the disruptive potential of stablecoins, blockchain, and the GENIUS Act. Their conversation covers why stablecoins matter beyond crypto speculation, how new regulations could legitimize digital currencies in the U.S., and what these changes might mean for community banks, consumer trust, and the future of financial services. They also discuss the role of major retailers like Walmart and Amazon, the risks of deposit runoff for community banks, and what younger generations’ digital payment habits reveal about the shifting landscape of money movement. If you’re a banker, financial advisor, or simply curious about how the foundations of banking are evolving, this episode provides a clear and timely perspective on one of the most important shifts happening in finance today. 👉 Stay ahead of the curve. Tune in now and join the conversation about trust, disruption, and growth in modern banking. Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

September 3, 2025Episode 3039 min

Bridging Campus and Career: Bradley University’s Path to Industry-Ready Graduates

What does it take to prepare the next generation of financial professionals? In this episode of Banking on Growth, host Mike Graham sits down with Professor Stephen Kerr, Chair of Accounting at Bradley University, and Kennedy DeWitte, a double major in Accounting and Finance and summer intern at Midwestern Securities. Together, they explore how universities and community partners are building career-ready graduates in an evolving financial services industry. From creating a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) program at the undergraduate level to connecting students with real-world advisors and alumni mentors, Bradley is reshaping how business education meets workforce needs. Kennedy shares her perspective as a student preparing for exams and internships, while Professor Kerr highlights why designations like the CFP and CPA signal lifelong learning and professional excellence. Whether you’re a financial advisor, educator, or student considering a career in banking, this episode offers valuable insights into education, leadership, and the future of the profession. Find this episode on one of these channels: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Podcast Index • Podcast Addict • Podchaser • Pocket Casts • Deezer • Listen Heart • PlayerFM For more information on strengthening your retail wealth management division, contact us , and let’s start talking! Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

July 18, 2025Episode 2931 min

Banking on Compliance: Real Stories and Strategies for Preventing Financial Exploitation

How can financial institutions protect seniors from fraud, and what role does compliance really play? In this episode of Banking on Growth , Mike Graham sits down with Jeff Weber to discuss the rising threat of elder financial exploitation and the practical, real-time steps advisors and compliance officers can take to prevent it. From romance scams to crypto cons, Jeff shares true stories from the front lines of financial fraud prevention. Learn how community banks and credit unions can use FINRA rules, internal alerts, and cross-department collaboration to stop suspicious withdrawals, train advisors to spot red flags, and build a culture where compliance is more than a checkbox—it’s a mission. For financial advisors, program managers, compliance professionals, and community bank leaders, this is a must-watch. Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

June 3, 2025Episode 2842 min

Developing Future Leaders and Navigating Uncertainty in Community Banking

Welcome to another episode of the Banking on Growth podcast, hosted by Mike Graham, President of Midwestern Securities. In this in-depth conversation, Mike sits down with Dr. Bill Chittenden, CEO of the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking (SWGSB) at SMU Cox School of Business. Together, they explore how leadership development and strategic education are vital for navigating today’s uncertainty in the banking sector. From fostering talent in community banks to understanding the broader economic and regulatory landscape, Dr. Chittenden shares insights drawn from decades of experience bridging academia and industry. If you’re looking to understand how to invest in people while managing the unpredictable, this is the episode for you. What’s Inside This Episode As you listen to the discussion, you’ll learn: • Building the Next Generation of Bank Leaders Discover how SWGSB prepares bankers to take a holistic view of banking operations through immersive, multi-year programs. Participants engage in real-world projects, develop bank-specific strategic recommendations, and build a comprehensive understanding of funding, lending, compliance, and leadership. • Spotting Future Leadership Talent Find out how curiosity, work ethic, and cross-departmental interest distinguish rising leaders. Chittenden explains how managers can spot employees who want to be bankers—not just work at a bank—and why investing in them benefits the entire organization. • Managing Through Uncertainty Gain perspective on why “uncertainty” is the defining theme for 2025 and how geopolitical factors like tariffs, global supply chains, and domestic regulatory shifts are impacting community banking. Learn what it takes to stay focused amid consumer shifts, default trends, and C&I lending hesitancy. • Strategic Insights on Tariffs and Trade Hear Chittenden break down the economic myths around tariffs and why viewing them through a lens of long-term math—rather than political rhetoric—is essential. From Smoot-Hawley to modern protectionism, the conversation explores the real costs and trade-offs facing bankers and consumers alike. Additional Highlights: • Electives That Matter: Learn how SWGSB offers advanced courses on topics like wealth management, AI in banking, and problem loan workouts—giving participants practical tools for growth. • Macro Meets Micro: Understand why community bankers must balance national economic shifts with hyperlocal business needs to make sound lending decisions. • Crypto & Digital Trends: Hear Chittenden’s blunt take on cryptocurrency's long-term viability and why present value drives real financial value. • Regulatory Fairness: Explore the ongoing debate around credit union acquisitions and tax-exempt status—and why a level playing field matters more than ever. Find this episode on one of these channels: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Podcast Index • Podcast Addict • Podchaser • Pocket Casts • Deezer • Listen Heart • PlayerFM For more information on strengthening your retail wealth management division, contact us , and let’s start talking! Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

May 9, 2025Episode 2738 min

Banking Meets Tech: The Future of Digital Wealth Management with Margaret Hartigan

Welcome to another episode of the Banking on Growth podcast, hosted by Mike Graham, President of Midwestern Securities. In this enlightening conversation, Mike speaks with Margaret Hartigan, CEO and founder of Marstone, Inc., to explore the evolving digital wealth management industry and how community financial institutions can modernize their offerings through strategic technology adoption. Marstone isn’t your average fintech solution. Built with deep roots in traditional wealth management, the platform offers a fully digital, goal-based investment and financial planning experience. But Margaret is quick to clarify—it’s not a robo-advisor. “We’re not here to replace bankers or advisors,” she says. “We’re here to help them scale, stay compliant, and serve clients in a modern, user-centric way.” What’s Inside This Episode: As you watch this episode, you can find: Digital Expectations: Learn how community banks can meet the demands of today’s mobile-first, tech-savvy customers. Goal-Based Planning: Discover how interactive tools help clients visualize and prioritize their financial goals. System Integration: Explore how Marstone connects with core platforms like Jack Henry and Q2 for a unified experience. Financial Education: See why personalized learning tools build trust and drive long-term customer engagement. Journey Mapping: Understand how to align wealth, lending, and banking into a seamless client experience. Revenue Sharing: Uncover how institutions can earn up to 25% back by offering digital wealth solutions. Stay tuned as Margaret Hartigan reveals why digital wealth management is no longer optional—and how community banks can use it to retain customers, increase non-interest income, and future-proof their business. Whether you're leading a credit union or scaling a regional bank, this conversation offers the strategic clarity and real-world examples needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Stay tuned and listen now to hear how your institution can turn digital engagement into deeper relationships, stronger retention, and sustainable growth! Subscribe now to receive notifications and access the complete library of empowering episodes designed exclusively for community financial institution leaders seeking to thrive in wealth management services. For more information on strengthening your retail wealth management division, contact us , and let ’s start talking! Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/ . Member FINRA/SIPC

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