Common Cents

Samantha Beeler, President of the League of Southeastern Credit Unions (LSCU), joins the conversation as she sits down with Jim Nussle to explore his vision for America's Credit Unions and the future of the credit union movement. With insightful questions on topics ranging from Jim's background in politics and advocacy to the integration of the two legacy organizations, this episode offers a unique perspective on the monumental changes happening within the industry.

In the latest episode of LSCU's Common Cents Podcast, listeners are treated to a compelling conversation as LSCU President Samantha Beeler and Communications Manager Mike Miller delve into the significance of Black History Month with Renée Sattiewhite from the African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC).

Drawing on her wealth of experience, Sattiewhite opens up about her journey, shedding light on her role within AACUC and the path that led her to her current position. With clarity and passion, she articulates the mission and purpose of AACUC, making it accessible to everyone.

Prepare to delve into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on credit unions with the latest episode of the Common Cents Podcast. This time, host Mike Miller, Communications Manager at the League of Southeastern Credit Unions (LSCU), welcomes Rae Hoskins, Technology Operations Manager at CU NextGen, for a captivating conversation about how AI is poised to revolutionize the financial landscape.

Should credit unions be using AI? How can they use it right now? What does the future of AI look like for credit unions?

Let's dive into the world of young professionals within the credit union sphere. We welcome Avery Ragsdale, Member Engagement Consultant at LSCU, to share insights into the LSCU Young Professionals Group (YPG) and its impactful role in fostering growth and development within the industry. 

In this latest episode, we have the privilege of hosting an incredible guest: Chief Financial Officer of Florida, Jimmy Patronis.

Chief Patronis takes center stage to discuss his background, his role as CFO, and how he’s shaping the financial future of Florida. We’ll also delve into his efforts to combat financial fraud and tackle rising property and homeowner insurance premiums.

And that’s not all! Christopher Hodge, the LSCU Senior Director of Governmental Affairs in Florida, joins us to share insights into the exciting initiatives and challenges facing credit unions in the Sunshine State. We’ll also touch on the pressing issue of public deposits for credit unions in Florida.

Plus, you’ll hear about Chief Patronis’ key priorities for the years ahead and what he expects with the 2024 Presidential Race as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is running for president.

Alabama State Senator Greg Reed – Senate President Pro-Tempore and a distinguished Republican lawmaker from Jasper, Alabama – steps into the spotlight. A businessman with a passion for politics, Senator Reed takes us through his journey, his district representation, and the driving force behind his involvement in politics. 

Michelle Roth, Senior Director of Governmental Affairs in Alabama for LSCU, shares her invaluable insights as an advocate for credit unions. Discover how she appreciates the seamless collaboration between both chambers and their commitment to the betterment of Alabamians. 

We shine a spotlight on Mary Ott Wood, an influential leader in the Southeast credit union industry. Ms. Ott Wood serves as the President/CEO of Florida West Coast Credit Union, located in Brandon, Florida. 

This year, the League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates (LSCU & Affiliates) honored Ms. Ott Wood with the prestigious Distinguished Service Award. This esteemed accolade acknowledges her lifelong commitment to the credit union movement, reaching beyond the natural person credit union. 

Get ready for an exciting sneak peek into the future of credit unions in the latest episode of the Common Cents Podcast! The June 2023 edition of Common Cents features a thrilling preview of an upcoming keynote address that will be presented at the 2023 Southeastern Credit Union Conference & Expo on June 14 – 16, 2023, in Orlando, Florida. We sat down with Melina Palmer, Founder and CEO of The Brainy Business and a renowned speaker in the field of behavioral economics.

This episode features U.S. Representative Mike Collins (GA-10) and Grace Newcombe, the Vice President of Federal Advocacy and Communications for the League of Southeastern Credit Unions (LSCU). Common Cents Podcast Host Mike Miller sat down with the Congressman and Grace to discuss a range of topics, including his credit union background, his experiences in Washington D.C. so far, credit union priorities, and important legislation being worked on by him and other U.S. House members. 

Rep. Collins is a Republican Lawmaker who represents the Jackson, Georgia area in the U.S. House of Representatives. He previously operated a trucking company and served on the board of the Georgia Motor Trucking Association and Associated Credit Union.

Common Cents Host Mike Miller sits down with Sydney Seral, the Vice President of Advocacy for LSCU, and Georgia State Representative Scott Hilton (R-District 48) to discuss the 2023 Georgia Legislative Session, including legislation impacting the financial services industry. 

The trio also discusses recent bank failures, dangerous interchange legislation proposed in Georgia, and why it is important for credit unions to get involved in the political and legislative process.