Leaders in Lending

In episode re-air, joining our host Ed Walters is Simon Darchis, Head of Partnership at Finwise Bank, to discuss his trajectory in the financial services sector from Europe to the US. With this multi-cultural background in finance, Simon explains the intricacies of FinTech, unraveling the cultural and regulatory intricacies that shape these distinct markets.Ed and Simon discuss:The pivotal role of adaptability in navigating the evolving landscape of financial servicesInsights into the contrasting FinTech practices between America and Europe, emphasizing the significance of cultural understanding in the industryThe critical importance of compliance in FinTech partnerships, from the challenges faced by banks collaborating with FinTechs to the meticulous partner selection process.

As economic conditions shift, financial institutions must adapt their lending strategies to balance growth, risk, and liquidity. A “Slow and Grow” approach is emerging as a sustainable way to navigate today’s market while expanding financial services.This week, host Barry Roach welcomes Michelle Goeppner, Vice President of Consumer Lending & Product Strategy at Vantage West Credit Union, to explore how lending programs are evolving post-COVID. They discuss the role of AI-powered underwriting, flexible loan programs, and the importance of internal alignment in driving loan growth. Plus, they dive into how financial institutions are expanding their reach beyond state borders while enhancing community impact.Join us as we discuss:How AI-driven lending programs help manage risk, return, and volumeStrategies for deposit growth, cross-selling, and member onboardingThe financial wellness programs turning borrowers into saversInnovative mortgage solutions tackling housing affordability

In episode re-air, host Lynn Sautter Beal talks with Jillian Murrish, CEO of Pier Asset Management, about the waves she and her firm are making in the market — targeting less liquid and underserved areas while focusing on secondary markets and early-stage credit facilities. Jillian shares her journey from working in online real estate to co-founding Pier Asset Management, while offering valuable lessons on flexibility, operational ease, and evolving borrowing bases for early-stage originators along the way.Join us as we discuss:Why early-stage originators should avoid using expensive equity capital to fund loansThe change in defining secured vs. unsecured lendingHow targeting less liquid areas can help generate alpha and deliver better returns for investorsThe role of privacy, reputational risk, and the regulatory environment play in decision-making in evaluating potential partners and deals

In today’s episode, we dive into the dynamic world of financial services, specifically auto and mortgage lending. Join host Drew Megrey as he speaks with Rick Moore, the Chief Lending Officer at Maine Savings Credit Union. With nearly 39 years of experience under his belt, Rick provides invaluable insights into the evolving mortgage landscape, tackling challenges like rising interest rates and soaring home prices. He’ll also share how financial institutions are pivoting with innovative strategies in auto lending and unsecured loans to navigate these turbulent times. Plus, we’ll explore Rick’s personal tech preferences and his take on the future of AI advancements in finance.Join us as we discuss:The potential of AI to transform the industry and pave the way for a four-day workweekWhy rising home prices and high interest rates have shifted mortgage production.How Maine Savings Credit Union enhances auto and unsecured loan programs while exploring cutting-edge solutions.

As technology evolves, open banking is reshaping how we manage and share financial data, creating exciting opportunities for innovation and better services.In today’s episode, host Matt Snow welcomes Armen Meyer, Co-founder of the American Fintech Council, to explore the world of open banking. Together, they discuss the opportunities and challenges this transformation brings, from balancing innovation with preventing monopolies to what’s next for consumer protection and data privacy. Armen also shares some key post-election insights, exploring how recent political shifts may impact financial regulations, CFPB oversight, and potential rule changes that could shape the future of the industry.Join us as we discuss:The role of balanced regulation in fostering innovation in financial services.How open banking promotes transparency, and the challenges smaller banks face.Key political and legal developments that could influence fintech regulations and the CFPB moving forward.

In banking, yesterday’s touchdowns don’t win today’s games. A great product is just the start — constant evolution is key to meeting ever-changing customer needs.In today’s episode, host Matt Snow sits down with Rhett Roberts, CEO and Co-Founder of LoanPro, for an in-depth look at the modern financial landscape. Rhett shares key insights from the recent Money 2020 event in Las Vegas, covering everything from AI’s growing role in financial services to the critical shift toward customer-centric lending. Together, they explore how small lenders can embrace tech modernization, the importance of proactive customer service, and the far-reaching effects of regulatory changes on the industry. Join us as we discuss:Why small lenders should prioritize exceptional, cost-effective customer experiences over geographical reach.How AI and generative tech are transforming financial services, enhancing efficiency and compliance beyond traditional CRMs.The urgent need for financial institutions to modernize their tech to meet customer expectations and leverage open banking.

In a world where technology rapidly reshapes financial systems, credit unions must innovate to stay ahead. In this episode, host Matt Snow chats with Nat Hoopes, Head of Public Policy at Upstart, as they navigate the fintech landscape and highlight the importance of actionable insights from industry professionals. They discuss the evolving role of the NCUA, the need for diversified products in credit unions, and share compelling anecdotes about Synapse's bankruptcy and Upstart's partnerships with over 100 institutions. Together, they explore the delicate balance between partnership and regulation, the transformative power of AI in lending, and the challenges and opportunities in this dynamic sector.Join us as we discuss:Why insights from real industry professionals outweigh the advice of self-proclaimed "gurus".How AI enhances credit access and performance compared to traditional methods.The importance of partnerships between credit unions and fintechs to offer diverse products and maintain competitiveness amid regulatory scrutiny and technological changes.

In the face of unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses across the nation have demonstrated remarkable resilience and ingenuity, adapting to new realities and discovering innovative ways to survive. On today's episode, host Matt Snow is joined by special guest, Chris Pilkerton, the former head of the Small Business Administration and author of "Plandemic." Chris shares his unique insights from inside the SBA and the White House, detailing how the Paycheck Protection Program was crafted and executed at lightning speed. We’ll dive into his book, which explores the challenges and triumphs faced by small businesses during the pandemic. Additionally, we’ll discuss the pivotal role of community development financial institutions (CDFIs), the decision-making processes behind massive economic stimulus measures, and the crucial lessons learned for future crisis preparedness.Join us as we discuss:How the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) sustained jobs and health benefits during the pandemic, highlighting the necessity for adaptable government interventions.Why CDFIs like the Accion Opportunity Fund were vital in providing financial assistance to underserved communities, highlighting the need for inclusive support systems.The importance of pre-written legislation and streamlined processes for swift, effective responses to future crises.

Can credit unions turn economic setbacks into stepping stones for success? Today, we sit down with Dustin Holmberg, Chief Revenue and Lending Officer at Clearview Federal Credit Union. With $2 billion in assets and a vibrant community of 120,000 members, Clearview is not only surviving but thriving in today’s financial landscape. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of AI, innovative lending strategies, and the critical role of community engagement. Dustin also shares his personal journey and insights on adaptability, revealing what it truly takes to lead in the credit union industry.Join us as we discuss:How Clearview Federal Credit Union manages interest rate changes and liquidity crises through strategic oversight of margins, CD rates, and loan growth.The role of AI and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in boosting efficiency in underwriting and automating repetitive tasks, empowering employees.Clearview's "digital-first" approach and its expansion of physical branches to enhance community engagement and member convenience.

Ultimately, providing the best financial advice or service is all about having the right data in the right place at the right time.This week, host Matt Snow speaks with Chris Gifford, Chief Data and Analytics Officer at USAA Federal Savings Bank, about the evolution of data analytics within the financial industry—as well as the importance of having a strong data foundation. Chris also shares insights on driving innovation through real-world problem-solving, the democratization of data, and the need to break down data silos for seamless integration.Join us as we discuss:The democratization of deep data analysis and its effectsWhat factors organizations should consider when deciding whether to build, buy, or partner for technological solutionsUsing timely data analysis to give personalized advice to membersStrategies for fostering a culture of innovation within data analytics teams