Welcome to Compound Influence, the podcast that dissects the power players shaping the financial services industry. I'm your host, Tearsheet's Zack Miller, joined by my insightful co-host, Josh Liggett.

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of financial analysis and influence, focusing on a figure who's been making waves in a unique way: Ron Shevlin. Known for his data-driven approach and sharp insights, Ron has carved out a niche as the "analyst's analyst" in our industry.

We'll explore how Ron's methodical, sometimes contrarian views are reshaping conversations in banking and fintech. We'll also draw some interesting comparisons to Jim Cramer, whom we discussed in our previous episode, highlighting the diverse ways influence manifests in our field.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a rising star in financial services, this episode promises to offer valuable insights into the mechanics of influence and the power of nuanced, data-backed perspectives in our rapidly evolving industry.

The big ideas

Data-Driven Contrarianism: Ron Shevlin's approach combines deep industry knowledge with a willingness to challenge accepted practices, using data to poke holes in common assumptions about banking and fintech.

The Power of "Boring" Finance: In contrast to flashy influencers, Shevlin's "boring" but substantive content resonates strongly with industry professionals, highlighting the value of in-depth, nuanced analysis in financial services.

Independence as Influence: Shevlin's perceived independence and resistance to being "influenced" himself lends significant credibility to his opinions and analyses.

Niche Expertise in a Massive Market: The financial services industry is so large that influencers like Shevlin can focus on specific niches (like credit unions) and still have substantial impact and reach.

B2B Storytelling Through Social Media: The podcast discusses how leaders in fintech and banking are increasingly using platforms like LinkedIn to share behind-the-scenes insights, building trust and connections with potential clients and partners.

So, grab your coffee, settle in, and let's unpack the