Banking on You

In this episode of Banking On Credit Unions, host Josh Rodriguez sits down with the recently retired credit union executive, advocate, marketer, and storyteller to reflect on a career dedicated to helping people. From small credit unions run out of living rooms to advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill, Mike shares lessons about leadership, service, collaboration, and why credit unions are much more than financial institutions.

It's a conversation about the power of relationships, the importance of telling our stories, and the movement that continues to change lives every day.

Full Show Notes: https://blog.westcommunitycu.org/podcast/bankingonyoupod-episode-16/

What if the difference between success and struggle at school was something as simple as a coat, a pair of shoes, or a backpack?

In this episode of Banking on St. Louis, host Josh Rodriguez visits the Little Bit Foundation, an organization that has spent the last 25 years helping students overcome barriers to learning. What began with a single coat drive has grown into a movement serving more than 17,000 students across the St. Louis region each year.

Through conversations with CEO Miranda Walker Jones, staff members, volunteers, and community partners, this episode explores how small acts of kindness can create life-changing impact. It's a story about dignity, opportunity, and the extraordinary people who keep showing up for St. Louis kids.

Full Show Notes

Today's episode is a replay of a Consumer Fraud Awareness episode from Season One. We'll be back with a brand new episode soon!

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Consumer fraud is exploding. In 2024, $12.5 billion was stolen by criminals from unsuspecting, trusting individuals Thats a 25% increase from 2023 which was already up 21% from 2022.

How can you protect yourself and your vulnerable loved ones from falling prey to romance scams and all the other sinister methods being used today?

Tasha's Red Flags. Simple, common sense actions that will keep your hard earned money safe and sound...far away from the scammer's manipulative reach.

Full show notes:https://blog.westcommunitycu.org/podcast/bankingonyoupod-episode-4-real-romance-or-red-flag/

Banking on You is powered by West Community and Tigers Community Credit Union.

Fraud is evolving, and so are the criminals behind it.

In this episode of Banking On You, host Josh Rodriguez sits down with Brock Martin, Director of Fraud and Financial Crimes at West Community and Tigers Community Credit Union, to explore the rapidly changing world of financial fraud and the firsthand insights into how scams have become more sophisticated, organized, and widespread in recent years.

Together, they discuss the tactics used by modern fraudsters, and the scams targeting some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.

Whether you're concerned about online scams, identity theft, celebrity impersonation schemes, or protecting yourself and your loved ones, this conversation offers valuable lessons on how to recognize red flags and stay one step ahead of financial criminals.

Full show notes: https://blog.westcommunitycu.org/podcast/bankingonyoupod-episode-13

What do Star Wars and credit unions have in common? More than you might think.

In this episode, Josh Rodriguez sits down with Eric Bruin, President and CEO of Desert Valleys Federal Credit Union, to explore how creativity, storytelling, and authenticity can transform the member experience. From movie theater annual meetings to viral community videos, Eric shares how his credit union stands out by doing things differently.

This conversation is packed with energy, practical ideas, and a reminder that size does not limit impact. Sometimes, all it takes is a willingness to try something bold.

Full Show Notes: https://blog.westcommunitycu.org/podcast/bankingonyoupod-episode-12/

A credit union merger is often seen as a financial transaction, but for the people involved, it is much more personal.

In this episode of Banking On You, Josh Rodriguez attends the Gateway Metro membership meeting as members vote on merging with West Community Credit Union. Through conversations with staff, leadership, and members, this episode captures the real emotions behind the decision.

From uncertainty to optimism, and ultimately a powerful full‑circle moment, this story explores what a merger truly means for the people it impacts.

Full Show Notes: https://blog.westcommunitycu.org/podcast/bankingonyoupod-episode-11/

St. Louis is often defined by its challenges, but those who live and build here know a very different story. In this episode, Josh Rodriguez launches the new Banking on St. Louis series with Doug Wilber of venture capital firm SixThirty.

Together, they explore how collaboration, innovation, and a powerful financial services ecosystem are helping St. Louis shape the future of fintech, health, wealth, and privacy.

Full Show Notes: https://blog.westcommunitycu.org/podcast/bankingonyoupod-episode-10-how-stl-helps-shape-financial-future/

What does it really mean for a credit union to help communities thrive?

In this episode, our host Josh Rodriguez sits down with Lori Hudson and CEO Jason Peach to explore how West Community & Tigers Community Credit Union have built a culture where volunteering, giving, and community engagement aren’t just encouraged, they’re part of who they are.

From hands‑on service projects to lasting partnerships, this conversation shows how people helping people can create meaningful impact.

See full show notes: https://blog.westcommunitycu.org/podcast/bankingonyoupod-episode-9-helping-our-communities-thrive/

The Banking on You Podcast is back!! And we have some cool changes coming up this season. `

Find out what is coming to The Banking on You Podcast is 2026!

On May 16th, a powerful EF3 tornado tore through North St. Louis, leaving devastation in its wake and exposing deep-rooted challenges in communities already struggling to survive. In this season finale of Banking on You, host Josh Rodriguez takes you to ground zero where lives were upended and resilience was tested. Hear firsthand accounts from community leaders and activists, explore the systemic issues laid bare by the storm, and discover how rebuilding will mean everyone coming together.

Special thanks to the extrodinary individuals who contributed to this episode and are working hard for the people of North St. Louis…

Demaris Ridgell - "Brother D"

Sebastian Montes - La Calle Mexican Restaurant

Jarrad Holst - 1904Group

Dr LJ Punch - 314Oasis

Stephanie Reynolds - 314 Oasis

Ashley Norton - The Kaufmann Fund