In this episode of Credit Union Conversations, host Mark Ritter sits down with Gord Baizley, Co-Founder and CEO of Judi.ai, to explore why small business lending remains one of the greatest untapped opportunities for credit unions—and how technology is finally making it scalable.

Gord shares his unique career journey from law and investment banking to leading high-growth technology companies, including Judi.ai, a platform purpose-built to simplify and modernize small business lending. The conversation breaks down why small businesses are consistently underserved by traditional financial institutions despite representing a massive share of the economy—and why credit unions are uniquely positioned to close that gap.

Mark and Gord dive into the cultural, regulatory, and operational barriers that have historically slowed small business lending at credit unions. They discuss how outdated underwriting expectations, CRE-centric credit culture, and manual processes have made small business lending feel complex and costly. Gord explains how predictive AI, real-time cash flow data, and automation are reshaping underwriting—allowing credit unions to treat small business lending more like consumer credit cards than commercial real estate.

The episode also compares U.S. and Canadian banking systems, highlights the importance of executive buy-in, and reinforces why small business owners are “relationship unicorns” for credit unions—bringing deposits, loans, mortgages, and long-term loyalty.

This episode is essential listening for credit union leaders, lenders, and executives looking to grow relationships, diversify loan portfolios, and compete effectively with fintech lenders.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

✅ Why small business lending should be treated as its own segment, not lumped into consumer or commercial lending.

✅ How predictive AI and real-time cash flow data can dramatically reduce underwriting friction and improve risk management.

✅ What’s holding credit unions back from small business growth, and how to move it higher on the strategic priority list.

✅ Why small business owners are among the most valuable long-term relationships a credit union can build.

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Credit Union Conversations: Gord Baizley’s career journey: law, finance, and tech

03:05 What Judi.ai does and why small businesses are underserved

04:03 Predictive AI vs. generative AI in lending

06:00 Banking in Canada vs. the U.S.

08:43 Why credit unions focus on CRE instead of small business

09:22 Rethinking risk: small business vs. consumer credit

10:15 Automation, open banking, and real-time cash flow data

13:32 Regulatory shifts supporting cash flow lending

14:33 Ideal credit unions for small business growth

16:45 Treating small business as its own segment

17:27 Why small business owners are “relationship unicorns”

19:10 The biggest barriers to getting started

21:00 Executive buy-in and strategic ownership

23:00 The future outlook for credit unions

25:12 How to connect with Gord and Judi.ai

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Small business lending is a relationship growth engine, not just a loan product.
2. Credit unions often apply the wrong risk lens to small business lending.
3. Technology has removed the biggest historical barriers from small business lending.
4. Credit unions are uniquely positioned to win this market.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Gord brings a broad range of financial, legal, and operational experience to JUDI.AI. He began his career in investment banking and corporate law. Subsequently, he held executive positions (CFO, CSO and COO) in two of Canada’s fastest-growing technology companies during the past two decades (which reached #1 and #5 on the Deloitte Fast 50 list). Gord enjoys the excitement and challenges that come with hyper-growth, and brings significant experience in scaling technology businesses to the JUDI.AI team, along with financial services expertise that contributes to the company’s product and go-to-market strategies.

Gord has a BA from the University of Western Ontario and an LLB/MBA from the University of British Columbia. He is called to bar in British Columbia and is a CFA charter holder. He previously served on the Board of Directors of the Dr. Peter Aids Foundation, including serving as the chair of the foundation’s development committee.

Gord Baizley - Judi.AI Website

Gord Baizley - LinkedIn

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

SEO KEYWORDS:

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, CUSO, Credit Union Service Organizations, Credit union podcast marketing, Small business lending for credit unions, Credit union small business strategy, AI underwriting for small businesses, Cash flow lending credit unions, Predictive AI in financial services, Credit union fintech partnerships, Relationship-based lending, Underserved small business financing

Credit union predictions take center stage as Mark Ritter hosts Jeff Lyons on Credit Union Conversations to review their 2025 forecasts. The MBFS leaders analyze their interest rate forecasts, NCUA board changes, and tariff-negotiation predictions with a candid self-assessment. Throughout this engaging review, they explore Federal Reserve rate cuts, consumer lending trends, commercial lending stability, and the challenges facing credit unions in the auto loan market as vehicle prices surpass $50,000. They examine the accuracy of housing market forecasts and the outcomes of budget deal negotiations, while acknowledging mixed results in their prognostication.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

✅ How NCUA board changes and Supreme Court cases continue to impact credit union regulatory oversight, with the FTC lawsuit setting precedent for future administrative decisions affecting the credit union industry.

✅ Why the auto loan market faces unprecedented challenges as average new vehicle prices exceed $50,000, causing consumers to hold vehicles longer and fundamentally shifting credit union business strategies.

✅ The accuracy of inflation predictions and credit card delinquency forecasts, including how CPI data at 2.7% contradicts consumer experiences of rising costs in everyday purchases.

✅ How commercial lending stability diverged from consumer lending trends in 2025, creating a bifurcated lending environment that requires different strategic approaches for credit unions.

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Mark Ritter and Jeff Lyons review their year-end credit union predictions for 2025 and discuss their accuracy

00:38 NCUA board changes discussion covering the firing of Democratic board members and predictions about Supreme Court cases impacting regulatory authority

01:33 Interest rate forecasts review, revealing they missed by 25 basis points and tariff negotiations analysis examining how tariffs became a negotiating tool

07:07 Auto loan market and consumer lending trends, highlighting the average cost of a vehicle and the lending environment affecting credit union business

09:06 Discussion of credit card debt to be determined in February and March, and some football talk: Penn State and Rutgers

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

💲Tariff negotiations proved to be primarily a negotiating tool rather than a permanent policy, with initial concerns about widespread economic impact diminishing by year-end as countries eagerly negotiated with the U.S., validating the prediction that tariff discussions would fade from headlines.

💲Budget deal negotiations successfully extended and codified existing tax rate extensions rather than allowing rates to sunset, demonstrating how political necessity drives compromise even in divided government scenarios. However, healthcare insurance rates remain unresolved heading into the new year.

💲Housing market forecast accuracy was mixed as hot markets experienced price corrections while other areas remained stable.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Jeff Lyons - LinkedIn

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

SEO KEYWORDS:

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, CUSO, Credit Union Predictions, Interest Rate Forecasts, NCUA Board Changes, Tariff Negotiations, Federal Reserve Rate Cuts, Consumer Lending Trends, Commercial Lending Stability, Auto Loan Market, Housing Market Forecast, Budget Deal Negotiations, Credit Union Industry, Vehicle Prices, Credit Union Business, Inflation Predictions, Credit Card Delinquencies, Credit Union Industry Predictions and Year-End Review

In this episode of Credit Union Conversations, host Mark Ritter speaks with Josh Rodriguez of West Community Credit Union about authentic community engagement, storytelling through podcasting, and the evolving role of credit unions in a competitive financial landscape.

Josh shares his 20+ year journey in the credit union industry—from phone teller to President & CEO of a small credit union, and now serving in one of the industry’s most unique roles: Assistant Vice President of FinTech and Mission Integration. He reflects on the challenges of leading a small credit union, the difficult but member-focused decision to merge, and how West Community Credit Union has embedded “people helping people” into its culture through hands-on community involvement.

The conversation explores why traditional marketing tactics often fall flat and how audio storytelling and podcasting can help credit unions emotionally connect with members and communities. Josh breaks down West Community’s Banking On You Podcast, a narrative-driven audio series that highlights real community impact rather than products or promotions.

Mark and Josh also discuss small credit union survival strategies, the realities of fintech partnerships, and why community engagement must go beyond check-writing and photo ops. This episode is a must-listen for credit union leaders, marketers, and executives looking to strengthen community trust, modernize outreach, and tell their story more effectively.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

✅ How credit unions can use storytelling and podcasting to build trust, emotional connection, and brand relevance beyond traditional financial marketing.

✅ What small credit union leaders must consider when facing sustainability challenges, including when a merger may be the most member-focused decision.

✅ Why authentic, hands-on community engagement matters more than surface-level philanthropy and how it strengthens long-term relationships.

✅ How fintech innovation can coexist with mission-driven values, allowing credit unions to modernize without losing their “people helping people” identity.

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Credit Union Conversations

01:14 Meet Josh Rodriguez

05:16 Life lessons from running a small credit union

07:20 Deciding to merge: putting members and staff first

09:41 West Community Credit Union’s mission and community focus

11:00 Active engagement vs. check-writing philanthropy

13:43 Why credit unions should invest in podcasting

15:44 Audio storytelling and the Banking On You Podcast

19:05 Why credit unions struggle to tell their story

22:33 Josh’s role: FinTech & Mission Integration explained

26:03 Advice for small credit unions today

29:18 Rethinking community involvement

30:00 Where to find Josh and West Community Credit Union

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ Authentic storytelling is a strategic advantage for credit unions. Members connect more deeply with real stories than product-driven messaging. Through podcasting and audio storytelling, credit unions can highlight real community impact, humanize their brand, and differentiate themselves in an increasingly crowded financial services landscape.

✅ Podcasting creates emotional connection at scale. Unlike ads or social posts, podcasts allow credit unions to slow down, go deeper, and engage listeners in meaningful conversations. Josh shares how West Community Credit Union’s Banking On You Podcast focuses on community narratives rather than promotions—building trust and credibility over time.

✅ Small credit unions must clearly define their niche to survive. Josh reflects on his experience leading a small credit union and the difficult decision to merge. He emphasizes that success for smaller institutions depends on focus, adaptability, and a willingness to make tough decisions that prioritize members and staff over ego or tradition.

✅ Community engagement must go beyond writing checks. True engagement requires showing up, listening, and participating consistently—not just sponsoring events for visibility. Josh challenges credit unions to move past transactional philanthropy and toward relationship-driven involvement that aligns with their mission.

✅ Fintech and mission alignment are not mutually exclusive. In his role overseeing FinTech and Mission Integration, Josh highlights how technology can enhance service delivery while reinforcing—not replacing—the credit union’s values. Strategic fintech partnerships should support accessibility, efficiency, and member experience without compromising purpose.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Josh Rodriguez LinkedIn

Banking On You Podcast

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

SEO KEYWORDS:

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, CUSO, Credit Union Service Organizations, Credit union community engagement, Credit union podcast marketing, Storytelling in financial services, Small credit union strategy, Credit union fintech partnerships, Mission-driven credit unions, Credit union mergers and leadership, Community-focused financial institutions

Commercial real estate lending saw unprecedented growth in 2025, defying expectations. In this episode of Credit Union Conversations, host Mark Ritter sits down with Kristina Paulson to explore the dramatic 30% increase in loan volume despite persistently high interest rates. They discuss evolving debt service coverage ratio requirements, the impact of rate resets on existing portfolios, and creative loan restructuring strategies. Kristina shares insights on commercial loan underwriting challenges, softening office building markets, and property values holding steady across most sectors. The conversation offers a critical perspective on credit union lending portfolio management and what commercial real estate market trends to expect in 2026. Stay tuned at the end to hear their favorite Christmas traditions.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

✅ How credit unions managed a surprising 30% surge in loan volume throughout 2025, despite high interest rates and why similar lending trends are expected to continue into 2026.

✅ Why debt service coverage ratio minimums have increased from 1.20 to 1.25 across the industry, and how commercial loan underwriting standards have become more meticulous due to rising insurance, utilities, and operating expenses.

✅ Which commercial real estate sectors face the most significant risk, particularly office buildings experiencing rate resets from low-interest loans originated in 2020-2021, and what creative loan restructuring strategies are emerging?

✅ How property values are holding steady in most markets, while credit union portfolio managers must monitor existing loans more carefully as higher expenses impact DSCR requirements and risk ratings.

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 2025 commercial real estate lending trends, MBFS growth, the unexpected surge in loan volume

03:04 Interest rates reality check: Why predicted rate drops never materialized and how borrowers adapted to the higher rate environment for commercial loans

06:01 Debt service coverage ratio challenges: Rising DSCR requirements, increased scrutiny on insurance, utilities, and operating expenses in commercial loan underwriting

08:02 Property values holding steady, loan amounts decrease to maintain the debt service coverage ratio, and troubled commercial real estate loans as they roll over for refinancing in 2026-2027

10:39 Holiday traditions discussion: Kristina shares family Christmas celebrations, decorating, baking cookies, and extended family gatherings on Christmas Eve

12:26 Childhood Christmas memories: for the Paulson and Ritter families

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

💲Commercial real estate lending volume increased over 30% in 2025 across the industry, requiring credit unions to rapidly expand their teams despite initial expectations of a flat year, with similar loan volume anticipated for 2026.

💲Debt service coverage ratio standards have tightened industry-wide, with minimum requirements rising from 1.20 to 1.25 as lenders account for inflation's impact on insurance, utilities, and operating expenses in commercial loan underwriting decisions.

💲The most significant portfolio risks exist in office buildings and larger metropolitan markets where rate resets from ultra-low 2020-2021 loans are creating coverage challenges, requiring creative loan restructuring or property conversions to alternative uses like apartments.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Kristina Paulson - LinkedIn

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

SEO KEYWORDS:

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, CUSO, Commercial Real Estate Lending, Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, Loan Volume, Interest Rates, Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Rate Resets, Loan Restructuring, Commercial Loan Underwriting, Office Buildings, Property Values, Commercial Real Estate Market, Debt Service Coverage Ratio Requirements For Commercial Loans

Credit Union Service Organizations are evolving rapidly, and NACUSO's new CEO, Randy Salser, discusses the future of CUSO collaboration in this episode of Credit Union Conversations with host Mark Ritter. Salser shares insights on credit union innovation, the critical 1% capital rule restricting CUSO investments, and NACUSO's advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill. The discussion covers member business lending, fintech partnerships, and how credit unions can leverage CUSO’s to gain a competitive advantage. Salser emphasizes that collaboration remains the credit union movement's superpower, highlighting upcoming initiatives, including the reimagined NACUSO conference and regional roundtables to foster year-round credit union networking.

What You Will Learn in This Episode: 

✅ How the 1% capital rule restricts credit union investments in CUSOs and limits stablecoin opportunities, member business lending initiatives, and other CUSO activities that could help credit unions compete with larger financial institutions.

✅ NACUSO's advocacy strategy focuses on CUSO model protection, third-party vendor oversight, and collaborating with America's Credit Unions and DCUC to address regulatory challenges while playing both offense and defense on Capitol Hill.

✅ The reimagined NACUSO conference format features intentional tracks, educational content on CUSO formation, regional roundtables, and collaborative networking opportunities that extend credit union engagement beyond annual events.

✅ How credit union collaboration through CUSOs enables innovation, risk mitigation, and scale that individual institutions struggle to achieve alone, with opportunities for credit unions, CUSOs, and fintechs to partner strategically.

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today.

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Randy Salser, new NACUSO CEO, explains the history and how credit union collaboration through the CUSO model drives credit union innovation over 40 years

03:39 Randy shares his professional background 

06:10 NACUSO advocacy on Capitol Hill addressing the 1% capital rule, Genius Act, stablecoins, and member business lending restrictions

13:02 April 2026 reimagined NACUSO conference in Orlando featuring educational tracks on CUSO formation, regional roundtables, and credit union networking

16:20 Randy shares his vision for the future of the CUSO 

22:30 Credit union industry consolidation from 14,000 to 4,400 institutions and evolution of trade associations navigating CUSO complexity with fintechs and private equity

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

✅ The arbitrary 1% capital rule severely limits credit union investment capacity across ALL CUSO activities collectively—from stablecoins to insurance to member business lending—preventing credit unions from competing with mega players like Coinbase, Amazon, and Meta in emerging financial services.

✅ NACUSO is transforming from an annual event organization into a year-round credit union community platform with regional roundtables, modern educational resources, webinars, and collaborative opportunities that connect credit unions, CUSOs, and fintechs for strategic partnership development.

✅ Credit union industry consolidation — from 14,000 to 4,400 institutions — demands that trade associations deliver speed, clarity, and actionable data while cutting through complexity. NACUSO's unique positioning focuses on CUSO-specific advocacy and collaborative innovation as the movement's competitive superpower.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

NACUSO - Website

Randy Salser - LinkedIn

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

SEO KEYWORDS: 

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, CUSO, Credit Union Service Organizations, NACUSO, Credit Union Innovation, Member Business Lending, Fintech Partnerships, NACUSO Conference, Credit Union Networking, Capital Rule, Stablecoin, America's Credit Unions, CUSO Formation, Randy Salser, Credit Union Leadership, CUSO Innovation

Annual reviews of commercial lending take center stage as Mark Ritter hosts Kristina Paulson on Credit Union Conversations. This MBFS Quick Hits episode tackles year-end commercial loan annual reviews and the persistent debate over K-1 documentation. Kristina, AVP of Credit Services at MBFS, shares practical strategies for managing unresponsive borrowers and explains why tax return analysis alone isn't sufficient. The conversation explores improvements to the credit analysis process, portfolio risk assessment techniques, and how commercial loan policy updates can reduce low-value activities. Learn why cash flow calculation requires K-1 forms and discover relationship-building opportunities hidden within the annual review process.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

✅ How to handle uncooperative borrowers during the annual review season, including escalation strategies like formal demand letters and default rate implementation when borrower financial statements aren't provided.

✅ Why K-1 forms are essential for accurate cash flow calculation and how they reveal distributions and contributions that standard tax returns cannot show, making them critical for proper credit analysis.

✅ How to update your commercial lending compliance policies to focus resources on high-risk loans rather than reviewing every small business loan in your portfolio, improving efficiency while maintaining regulatory standards.

✅ How annual reviews create sales opportunities to identify needs like lines of credit or refinancing options while monitoring portfolio health and strengthening business services relationships.

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today.

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Kristina shares her commercial lending career path and role as AVP of Credit Services at MBFS

03:12 Year-end annual review challenges and common borrower communication issues discussed

05:15 Red flags when borrowers avoid providing financial statements and potential underlying problems

06:05 Enforcement strategies and why credit unions must establish consequences for non-compliance and sales opportunities within annual reviews, including lines of credit and refinancing options

09:01 Commercial loan policy updates to focus on high-risk loans versus low-value activities

10:54 K-1 documentation importance explained, and why tax returns alone are insufficient for cash flow analysis

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

✅ Unresponsive borrowers during annual review season often signal deeper financial problems—lack of cooperation after multiple attempts should trigger escalation, including formal demand letters and potential default rates to enforce loan agreement requirements.

✅ K-1 forms are non-negotiable for accurate commercial lending analysis because they reveal distributions and contributions that impact cash flow, information that standard tax returns simply cannot provide to lenders.

✅ Modern commercial loan policies should be risk-based rather than reviewing every loan—focus credit analyst resources on larger, higher-risk transactions. In contrast, smaller loans, such as vehicle financing, require minimal oversight for efficient portfolio management.

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

MBFS Website

SEO KEYWORDS: 

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, CUSO, Annual Reviews, Commercial Lending, Commercial Loan Annual Reviews, K-1 Documentation, Tax Return Analysis, Credit Analysis Process, Portfolio Risk Assessment, Commercial Loan Policy, Cash Flow Calculation, Default Rate, Borrower Financial Statements

Today on Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter sits down with Bryan Doxford of Grow America to discuss innovative approaches to supporting small businesses, affordable housing, and underserved communities. Bryan shares insights into the mission-driven work of Grow America, including its role in providing capital through SBA loans, new market tax credits, and low-income housing initiatives. Bryan highlights how Grow America partners with credit unions, CDFIs, and community organizations to bridge funding gaps, offer economic development training, and help businesses access the capital they need to thrive.

They also delve into the current state of Certified Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), exploring trends in consolidation, grant reliance, and self-sufficiency. Bryan underscores the importance of collaboration, both between mission-aligned organizations and with credit unions, to maximize impact in underserved communities. From small business lending to affordable housing and workforce development, this episode provides actionable insights for credit unions and community-focused organizations seeking to expand their impact.

What You Will Learn in This Episode: 

✅How Grow America (formerly NDC) drives community impact

✅The evolving landscape of CDFIs

✅The national housing shortage & affordability crisis

✅How credit unions and CDFIs can partner for greater impact

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today. 

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Bryan Doxford’s career journey: from credit unions to SBA lending

07:00 About Grow America’s mission and programs

09:00 Explanation of new market tax credits

11:00 Current state and future of CDFIs

17:100 Affordable housing initiatives and impact

21:00 Training programs and community partnerships

24:00 Access to capital and client community examples

25:00 How credit unions can collaborate with Grow America

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

💎Grow America partners with credit unions and CDFIs to provide access to SBA and non-SBA business loans, bridging capital gaps in underserved communities.

💎The future of CDFIs may involve strategic consolidation and increased self-sufficiency, balancing grant reliance with sustainable operations.

💎Affordable housing initiatives, new market tax credits, and technical training programs are critical tools for driving economic development nationwide. 

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Bryan Doxford is a finance and community development expert with over 20 years of experience working with credit unions, banks, and SBA lending programs. Currently leading lending initiatives at Grow America, Bryan focuses on expanding access to capital, affordable housing, and economic development in underserved communities across the U.S.

Grow America Website

Bryan Doxford LinkedIn

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

SEO KEYWORDS: 

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, CUSO, Youth Banking, Family Banking, Digital Banking, How To Money Management, Parental Controls, Banking Education, Teach Kids About Money Using Banking Apps, Chores And Allowance, Financial Literacy, Mobile Banking Apps, Debit Cards For Kids, Bocoup, Beaucoup Youth Banking Program

Central Pennsylvania tourism offers incredible experiences beyond the well-known cities of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. In this episode of Credit Union Conversations, host Mark Ritter welcomes back Steve Young of MBFS to explore the region's hidden treasures. From the historic Gettysburg Battlefield to the sweet delights of Hershey, Pennsylvania, they discuss why this area deserves recognition as one of America's untapped vacation destinations. The conversation covers Lancaster County attractions, including the renowned Sight and Sound Theater, charming Lititz, and authentic Amish experiences. They also highlight Carlisle Car Shows, Knoebels Amusement Park, and local favorites such as Caledonia State Park, making a compelling case for the best family vacation spots in central Pennsylvania that offer exceptional value and memorable experiences.

What you will learn from this episode:                                                                                                        

✅ Discover why Central Pennsylvania tourism offers exceptional value compared to major theme parks, with destinations like Knoebels Amusement Park providing free admission, affordable food, and beautiful natural settings.

✅ Explore the rich history and modern attractions of Gettysburg Battlefield, Hershey, Pennsylvania, and Lancaster County attractions, including world-class entertainment at the Giant Center in Hershey, authentic Amish experiences, and the charming town of Lititz, Pennsylvania.

✅ Learn about unique Central Pennsylvania experiences from Carlisle Car Shows that draw collectors nationwide to Pennsylvania State Parks like Caledonia State Park, plus hidden culinary gems, including Northeast Pennsylvania pizza and local Pennsylvania wineries.

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today.

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Mark welcomes Steve Young from MBFS to discuss hidden tourist gems between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia

02:20 Steve shares how the Gettysburg Battlefield took on deeper meaning for him through a leadership class exploring Civil War communication and strategy

03:39 Discussion of Hershey, Pennsylvania, featuring Chocolate World, Giant Center Hershey concerts, outlet shopping, and Trans-Siberian Orchestra performances

05:24 Exploring Lancaster County attractions, including Lititz, Pennsylvania, Sight And Sound Theater, Amish Country, and accessibility from major metropolitan areas

08:23 Steve Young discusses his yellow Corvette and how Carlisle Car Shows draw collectors nationwide

10:25 Discussion of the benefits of Knoebels Amusement Park over other amusement parks and the Caledonia State Park

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

✅ Central Pennsylvania tourism offers exceptional value with attractions like Knoebels Amusement Park providing free admission and parking. At the same time, Lancaster County sits within two hours of New York, Washington, and Philadelphia, making it an ideal, affordable family destination.

✅ The region features diverse experiences from historic Gettysburg Battlefield and Pennsylvania wineries to world-class entertainment at the Giant Center in Hershey, including concerts and sporting events in a state-of-the-art venue.

✅ Hidden treasures include Northeast Pennsylvania pizza, fresh Amish Country baked goods, and scenic Pennsylvania State Parks like Caledonia State Park.

ABOUT THE GUESTS:

Steve Young - LinkedIn

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

SEO KEYWORDS: 

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, QSO, Central Pennsylvania tourism, Gettysburg Battlefield, Hershey, Pennsylvania, Lancaster County attractions, Carlisle Car Shows, Knoebels Amusement Park, best family vacation spots in central Pennsylvania, Giant Center Hershey, Lititz, Pennsylvania, Caledonia State Par

Youth banking is transforming how credit unions engage families and prepare the next generation for financial success. In this episode of Credit Union Conversations, host Mark Ritter sits down with Alexey Krasnoriadtsev, CEO and co-founder of boucoup, to explore innovative family banking solutions that are changing the game for credit unions. Alexey shares his remarkable journey from Soviet-era Belarus to becoming a fintech entrepreneur in Austin, Texas, and explains why digital banking tools for kids and teens are no longer optional—they're essential. The conversation reveals how to teach kids about money using banking apps through practical features like parental oversight, chores and allowance tracking, and even simulated loans that build real-world financial literacy.

What You Will Learn in This Episode: 

✅ How youth banking programs have evolved from money-losing initiatives to profitable opportunities for credit unions, with kids now holding $800-$1,500 in deposits and generating full asset yields on no-cost accounts.

✅ Why family banking tools with parental controls, money management features, and digital chores and allowance systems are essential for teaching financial literacy in a cashless society, where kids need cards earlier than ever before.

✅ The critical mistakes credit unions make during digital banking implementation, including inadequate testing of edge-case scenarios and a lack of proper project planning that leads to production problems.

✅ How innovative banking education features like parent-supervised loans with interest and late fees help teens experience real-world financial concepts like amortization before entering adulthood.

Subscribe to Credit Union Conversations for the latest credit union trends and insights on loan volume and business lending! Connect with MBFS to boost your credit union’s growth today.

TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Intro: The 25-year challenge credit unions face in attracting young people, and a conversation about youth banking solutions

03:17 Alexey Krasnoriadtsev shares his origin story, from Soviet-era Belarus to America, working as a dishwasher and theme park cleaner before founding his mobile banking app company

10:30 Banking On solves a California credit union's digital banking crisis, transforming thousands of one-star reviews into five-star ratings through API-connected mobile banking apps

13:32 Boucoup, the family banking concept, explains how financial literacy tools help parents supervise kids' spending through chores and allowance, loans, and kid debit cards

26:22 Critical advice on credit union innovation implementation, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive testing, project planning, and quality assurance 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

✅ Youth banking is now a profitable strategy—today's cashless society means kids need cards early, resulting in average deposits of $800 for 13-year-olds and $1,500 for 17-year-olds, generating full 4% asset yields on no-cost accounts.

✅ Family banking tools create emotional bonds and practical financial literacy through features like peer-to-peer transfers with photos, digital chores and allowance tracking, and parent-supervised loans with interest rates and late fees that teach real-world financial concepts.

✅ Successful digital banking implementation requires comprehensive testing. Credit unions must demand detailed project plans, test 60+ edge-case scenarios with multiple accounts, and invest in quality assurance before production launch.

✅ Member engagement with the next generation starts with solving parent pain points—giving kids supervised debit cards instead of credit cards creates sticky family banking relationships where entire households bank together at one institution.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

CEO @ boucoup - super-charged youth banking platform

Boucoup - Website

Alexey Krasnoriadtsev - LinkedIn 

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

SEO KEYWORDS: 

Credit Union Conversations, Mark Ritter, MBFS, Credit Unions, CUSO, Youth Banking, Family Banking, Digital Banking, How To Money Management, Parental Controls, Banking Education, Teach Kids About Money Using Banking Apps, Chores And Allowance, Financial Literacy, Mobile Banking Apps, Debit Cards For Kids, Bocoup, Beaucoup Youth Banking Program

Commercial lending negotiations require a different approach than consumer lending in credit unions. In this episode of Credit Union Conversations, host Mark Ritter talks with Steve Young, veteran relationship management professional at MBFS, about the art of business lending. Steve shares his journey from baseball to becoming a trusted advisor in the credit union space. They explore key differences between consumer and commercial lending, including interest rate negotiations, collateral requirements, and loan covenants. Steve emphasizes being genuine and responsive while building member relationships in credit union business lending, matching deals with appropriate credit unions, and explaining why documentation matters in every transaction.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

✅ How commercial lending negotiations differ from consumer loans, including the importance of loan structuring, collateral requirements, and loan covenants, rather than focusing solely on interest rates.

✅ Strategies for effective relationship management as a commercial loan officer, including being chameleon-like with different business types and serving as a trusted advisor to credit union members.

✅ Best practices for portfolio management and risk assessment, including why former collectors make excellent lenders and how to properly document terms and conditions throughout the lending process.

✅ Techniques for matching business lending opportunities with the right credit unions based on their culture, risk tolerance, lending areas, and membership requirements.

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TIMESTAMPS:  

00:00 Intro: Meet Steve Young and learn how commercial lending negotiations differ from standardized consumer loan processes in credit unions

01:30 Steve’s career journey from minor league baseball with the Dodgers to becoming a commercial loan officer, and how he learned business lending fundamentals 

05:00 Steve explains his role as a relationship manager at MBFS, serving multiple credit unions while working with brokers on commercial real estate deals

07:23 Discussion of "membership bingo" and matching deals to appropriate credit unions based on their risk tolerance, lending preferences, and portfolio management strategies

09:28 The importance of looking beyond interest rate negotiations to include loan covenants, collateral requirements, personal guarantees, and proper documentation in loan structuring

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

💲Former collectors make excellent commercial loan officers because they've seen deals go from good to bad and heard all the stories, making them better at risk assessment and understanding the importance of proper loan structuring from the start.

💲Commercial lending negotiations should focus on the total loan package, not just interest rates. Consider loan covenants, collateral requirements, personal guarantees, and release schedules to create a comprehensive deal structure.

💲Being a trusted advisor means matching the right deals with the right credit unions based on their specific lending preferences, asset classes, and membership requirements rather than forcing ill-fitting deals.

ABOUT THE GUESTS:

Steve Young - LinkedIn

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

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