I’m Mark Ritter, and this is Credit Union Conversations. Today, I’m joined by Austin Wentzlaff from Nook to discuss how credit unions can evolve beyond competitive rates and traditional relationships by using digital tools to deepen member engagement. We’ll explore how Nook takes a fresh approach—focusing on lifestyle topics like travel, health, and relationships—to build trust and naturally drive financial product adoption. Plus, we’ll dive into the role of venture capital in fintech, the challenges early-stage companies face, and what it really takes to bring innovation to the credit union space.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction
• (01:50) Austin shares his professional journey
• (07:36) Austin explains Nook’s purpose and how it operates
• (13:39) How is the industry responding to the premise of Nook’s purpose
• (17:44) What is in Nook’s future and Austin explains the roots of FinTech Accelerator
• (25:16) Discussion of venture capital 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• The credit union industry has thrived on competitive rates and strong member connections, but digital tools now deepen engagement. By focusing on lifestyle topics over direct financial discussions, this approach builds trust and drives natural product adoption.
• Successful early-stage fintechs and QSOs must be innovative, not just marginally improving existing solutions. They should be in a pilot phase with limited clients and employees, and they must be genuinely committed to the credit union industry rather than just exploring it as a potential revenue stream.
• While venture capital provides diversification and reduces risk for credit unions, it can also create a disconnect. Historically, credit unions invested in QSOs they were already working with, ensuring strategic alignment. The shift toward aggregated investment funds may weaken direct relationships between credit unions and fintechs, potentially impacting strategic collaboration.

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

Austin Wentzlaff - Nook - LinkedIn

Nook - Website

Austin's Email

BIOGRAPHY: 

Austin Wentzlaff is the Co-Founder & CEO of Nook and brings 10+ years of credit union industry, CUSO, and Fintech startup leadership experience.

Prior to starting Nook, Austin was the Founder and CEO of Fintech Accelerator, a consulting firm focused on bringing new technologies to the credit union industry, whose client list included CUSOs, RenoFi and Illuma, among other successful startups. Prior to founding Fintech Accelerator, he was the Chief Revenue Officer overseeing sales and marketing efforts at OnApproach, a CUSO acquired by Trellance in 2019. He has spent the entirety of his career in the credit union industry, where he has worked exclusively for Fintech startups from the earliest stages of growth through exit. Austin has extensive experience working with Fintech startups as an early employee (joining OnApproach, Illuma, and RenoFi all with less than 10 employees) and a key contributor, instrumental in their early success.  

Austin is an alumnus of Gustavus Adolphus College, where he received a degree in Financial Economics.

You'll quickly find out Mark and Rodney go way back and talk about the old days. What is a corporate credit union these days, and how can it help credit unions in today's marketplace? Rodney takes a deep dive into this topic today.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (01:40) Rodney shares his professional journey both in landscaping and the credit union space
• (05:08) Rodney defines a corporate credit union
• (09:47) Discussion of  Mid Atlantic Corporate evolving into Vizo Financial and the business lines offered
• (14:04) AI service launched to assist credit unions identify and use their data effectively 
• (18:54) Education and webinars provided and following current rules for credit unions
• (24:35) Who are the most successful clients at Vizo

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Corporate credit unions, which began in the 1970s and 1980s as liquidity providers for credit unions, have evolved to offer a wide range of financial services, including ACH, wire services, and fraud prevention. The sector has consolidated over the years, focusing on building economies of scale and offering more competitive services.
• The primary services provided by corporate credit unions today include competitive overnight investment accounts, ACH, wires, bill pay, and fraud prevention. Additionally, services like real-time payments (FedNow) and cyber security have become increasingly important, with a growing focus on helping credit unions protect against fraud and manage risk.
• A successful relationship with a corporate credit union is built on regular, open communication. Credit unions should utilize corporate services for their excess liquidity and reach out when new needs arise. The goal is to maintain constant engagement, ensuring both parties stay relevant and that credit unions maximize the benefits of available services.

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

Vizo Financial - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

Rodney May is the Chief Engagement Officer of the $4 billion Vizo Financial. His primary focus is directing all business development functions including marketing, investment sales, product sales, call center, back-office services, correspondent service implementation, core system support/implementation and member services.

Mark and Kyle catch up on Mark's flaws and frustrations of trying to do everything himself. Kyle talks about his career journey and life as an entrepreneur and how they assist business owners. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

(02:38) Kyle Walburn’s entrepreneurial journey and the creation of Efficient Aide

(10:44) Efficient Aide offers services in various skills of fractional support for remote work

(19:10) Kyle describes the situations that will benefit from his services

(21:39) Kyle predicts how he sees small businesses thriving in the future

(25:01) Advise for entrepreneurs who want to start a business

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Kyle Walbrun founded Efficient Aide, inspired by his uncle’s entrepreneurship and his father’s work ethic. Combining marketing, finance, and communication skills, he grew a solo virtual assistant service into a 50-person team, helping businesses operate efficiently without full-time overhead.
• Businesses are increasingly comfortable with remote work and fractional roles, which allow them to tap into a wider talent pool without needing full-time, in-office staff. Leaders realize that many tasks don’t require immediate, on-site attention and can be effectively handled by experienced remote professionals at a lower cost.
• Advances in remote work, fractional hiring, and AI are making it easier than ever for entrepreneurs to start and scale businesses without heavy overhead costs. Outsourcing non-core tasks allows business owners to focus on growth, strategy, and innovation rather than day-to-day operations.

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

Efficient Aide - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

Kyle Walbrun is the founder and CEO of Efficient Aide. He focuses on finding, training, and managing executive assistants for entrepreneurs nationwide.  You can learn more about their services by connecting with them at [email protected].

Welcome to Credit Union Conversations! In today’s episode, host Mark Ritter is joined by the industry’s leading expert, Mark Treichel, to uncover the mysteries of the NCUA exam and guide you through its complexities. With insights on risk management, cybersecurity, and evolving regulations, Mark Treichel offers invaluable advice on navigating credit union challenges, especially with a new administration in place. Tune in as they discuss everything from working through exam processes, the impact of office buyouts, to the current state of credit risk and empty office spaces. Plus, get an insider's look into the concept of regulation by enforcement and how credit unions can better manage their cybersecurity efforts. Stay with us to hear Mark's advice on reaching out and getting expert assistance on your next NCUA exam.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Introduction 

(01:34) The NCUA exam and a new administration

(09:27) Buyouts and requirements of working in person

(13:27) Credit risk management and empty offices

(19:10) Cybersecurity and regulation by enforcement

(27:53) Connect with Mark Treichel

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• The change in administration, particularly moving from one political party to another, significantly influences the NCUA's priorities and approach. This shift often creates chaos as new leadership adjusts priorities and regulations. 
• The NCUA is currently dealing with internal challenges, such as a hiring freeze, regulatory pauses, and staff buyouts. These factors contribute to uncertainty within the agency and affect its ability to fulfill its mission effectively. The chaotic environment could lead to turnover, with highly skilled employees either retiring or leaving for other opportunities.
• There is a focus on "regulation by enforcement," where policies are often clarified through enforcement actions rather than proper regulation. This creates ambiguity and strain on organizations, and there is a push for rules that strictly follow the intent of the law to avoid overreach and unnecessary penalties.

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

With Flying Colors - Podcast

Mark Treichel - Website

Credit Union Regulatory Guidance - Podcast

BIO: 

With 33 years of experience at NCUA, I've served in key roles, including Executive Director, Regional Director, Director of Special Actions, Supervisory Examiner, and Principal Examiner. Starting as a ground-level examiner, I rose to the organization's top. As Executive Director, I supervised Regional Directors, gaining unparalleled insight into NCUA's operations and decision-making processes.

Our Team

I lead a team of former NCUA experts with a combined experience of over 240 years in credit union regulation and supervision. This wealth of knowledge allows us to provide comprehensive, insider perspectives on all aspects of credit union operations and regulatory compliance.

How We Can Help

We offer assistance with a wide range of credit union challenges, including:

1. Examination preparation and response

2. Regulatory approval processes

3. Document of Resolution (DOR) issues

4. CAMEL code assessments and improvements

5. Risk management (credit, interest rate, liquidity, etc.)

6. Regulatory compliance (BSA, Fair Lending, etc.)

7. Strategic planning and corporate governance

8. Appeals and negotiations with regulators

Areas of Expertise

- NCUA examination priorities and processes

- Large Credit Union Program and ONES transition

- CFPB compliance

- Bank purchases

- Supervisory Committee guidance

- NCUA regulations and Letters to Credit Unions

Welcome to Credit Union Conversations! In this episode, we wrap up our series on the powerful partnerships between credit unions and small business owners with an inspiring entrepreneurship and financial collaboration journey. Host Mark Ritter is joined by George Florence from American Heritage Credit Union and Ross Hammer from Cape May, New Jersey, to explore how credit unions play a vital role in supporting ambitious entrepreneurs. From Ross’s unconventional path—dropping out of school and moving to Hong Kong—to securing an SBA loan with the backing of key mentors, this episode highlights the resilience and opportunity that credit unions help create. We spotlight Pennsylvania’s American Heritage Credit Union and its commitment to empowering small businesses. Stay tuned for valuable insights on lending, perseverance, and the unexpected opportunities that shape success!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:38] George describes his role at American Heritage Credit Union 
• [3:53] Ross shares his background
• [12:08] Ross drops out of school and moves to Hong Kong, and the inspiration he received from a book and wanting to be an entrepreneur 
• [17:36] Applying for an SBA loan and getting support from key people and an unexpected windfall and a new venture
• [29:07] Ross connects with American Heritage Credit Union to apply for a small business lending loan
• [38:56] Ross advises lenders about giving people an opportunity

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Ross Hammer demonstrated relentless determination despite financial struggles. He hustled to secure funding for his food truck, even using Coinstar to cash in change and taking a chance on fantasy football, which ultimately led to an unexpected windfall. His story highlights the importance of persistence and thinking outside the box to achieve goals.
• Key figures played crucial roles in his entrepreneurial journey. Their belief in him, financial support, and guidance helped him transition from food trucks to real estate, proving that strong networks and mentorship can be life-changing.
• After initial failures in the food truck business, Ross pivoted to real estate, recognizing an opportunity in distressed properties. Instead of flipping houses for a quick profit, he focused on revitalizing neighborhoods and renting them out, eventually building a substantial portfolio. His story underscores the value of adapting to market conditions and thinking long-term.

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

American Heritage Credit Union - Website

Rich Dad, Poor Dad - Book

Zest Cape May - Website

Taco Caballio Tequileria - Website 

George Florence - LinkedIn

Welcome to Credit Union Conversations! This week, we continue our series exploring the impactful partnerships between credit unions and small business owners. Host Mark Ritter is joined by Josh Green from American Heritage Credit Union and Ted Van Beuren, the visionary behind United Sports in Pennsylvania. This episode delves into the successful collaboration between these two entities, showcasing how a strong credit union partnership can empower businesses to thrive. Discover how American Heritage has supported United Sports' growth, learn about Ted's entrepreneurial journey, and gain valuable insights for aspiring business owners. Today, we're heading to Pennsylvania to spotlight the American Heritage Credit Union—don’t miss it!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:33] Josh shares his role at American Heritage Credit Union
• [3:41] Ted reveals how he saw the need for the sports complex he developed and gives his forecast on soccer in the United States
• [12:20] Ted shares some of the challenges of operations
• [15:00] Josh shares how American Heritage and United Sports partnered
• [18:00] Ted feels that working with the credit union has expedited the services they need at United Sports 
• [19:51] Ted advises prospective entrepreneurs 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Building strong partnerships is crucial for business success. The importance of cultivating long-term, mutually beneficial relationships between businesses and their financial institutions cannot be overstated. The partnership between United Sports and American Heritage Credit Union exemplifies this, demonstrating how a strong relationship can go beyond simple lending and encompass a range of support, from depository services to community involvement.
• Patience and a long-term vision are required in the entrepreneurial journey. Careful research, planning, and a willingness to adapt to unforeseen challenges are essential. You must demonstrate perseverance and a steadfast commitment to the long-term goal.
• United Sports and American Heritage Credit Union is committed to giving back to the community. This shared value strengthens their partnership and creates a positive impact beyond their core business activities.

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

United Sports - Website

American Heritage Credit Union - Website

Josh Green LinkedIn

Ted Van Beuren LinkedIn

Welcome to Credit Union Conversations! This week, we kick off an exciting new series focused on the relationship between credit unions and small business owners. Host Mark Ritter is joined by Nathan Crouch from Erie Federal Credit Union and one of their standout business members, Joseph Markiewicz. Together, they’ll explore the ins and outs of the lending process, from the challenges business owners face to the qualities they value most in their financial partners. Tune in as they discuss real-world experiences, share insights on what credit unions can do better, and highlight how these partnerships drive success for local businesses. Today, we're heading to Northwest Pennsylvania to spotlight Erie Federal Credit Union—don’t miss it!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:11] Nathan explains his role at the credit union 
• [6:24] Joe explains how he decided to go into business for himself
• [15:29] Why Joe made the switch to managing a wedding venue
• [19:41] Nathan describes how the credit union assisted with Joe’s small business plan
• [21:35] Joe’s relationship with the credit union and why he trusts them
• [26:13] Nathan sees a growth outlook for small business in his area, and Joe offers advice to other entrepreneurs 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• A key takeaway from the discussion on financing the wedding venue is the value of strong relationships between members and their credit unions. Nathan Crouch highlights the importance of detailed planning, including business plans and cash flow projections, when evaluating unique loan requests like this one. The credit union's willingness to collaborate and leverage community resources reflects its adaptability and commitment to supporting members' entrepreneurial ventures. The members' loyalty to the credit union stems from competitive lending rates, excellent customer service, and open, honest communication with their financial advisors.
• The outlook for the small business environment is optimistic and growth-oriented. Despite the typical seasonal slowdown in commercial lending during the fourth quarter, there has been robust loan demand. This indicates that business owners remain confident in the economic conditions and actively pursue growth opportunities. Credit union employees see this as a positive sign, reflecting a robust mindset among local entrepreneurs and a willingness to invest in their businesses despite external challenges.
• It is critical to start with strategic planning and balance. Instead of constantly chasing growth, small businesses should focus on achieving efficiency, streamlining processes, and aligning goals with personal priorities. Learning from the successes of others, taking educated risks backed by thorough research, and being open to feedback from trusted sources. Joe’s approach underscores that success often comes from leveraging proven ideas and maintaining a clear sense of purpose rather than attempting to reinvent the wheel.

RESOURCE LINKS: 

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

Edinboro Storage Center - Website

Country Elegance Venue - Website

BIOGRAPHIES: 

Joe Markiewicz is the owner of a wedding venue in Erie, PA.

Nathan heads up business lending at Erie FCU.

This week, Mark welcomes Nicol Matthews, the principal behind Harvest Coaching & Consulting, to discuss how credit unions can drive sustainable growth in a competitive financial landscape. Credit unions can strengthen their market position by building a strong sales culture, developing effective leadership, and expanding business services. Nicol shares insights on how establishing a sales culture through consistent coaching, aligning leadership with a long-term vision, and growing business services—particularly deposits—can help credit unions enhance their impact, build stronger relationships, and ensure long-term stability.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:28] Nicol shares her background and why she launched Harvest Coaching & Consulting
• [10:20] How credit unions should adopt a sales culture with goals and leadership to maximize growth
• [16:07] Nicol shares her thoughts on credit union leadership
• [21:44] Building business services and membership
• [28:09] Nicol shares the advantages of having a fractional executive

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Establishing a thriving sales culture within a credit union requires more than just launching a program. It involves setting clear goals, providing consistent coaching, and allowing gradual implementation over time. Leaders must create a foundation that aligns with the organization’s values and continuously build it, ensuring that empathy, integrity, and honesty are incorporated into the sales approach.
• Leadership development should be an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Whether someone is new to the C-suite or has been in the role for years, investing in executive leadership growth is key to fostering a positive organizational culture and long-term success. When needed, regular coaching, feedback, and external guidance can provide a fresh perspective and push leaders to improve.
• Credit unions can increase liquidity and grow their membership base by focusing on business services, especially deposits. Viewing business accounts not just as a line item but as a strategic growth area is essential. Implementing business deposit products and offering alternatives to banks can position credit unions as valuable resources for small businesses, ultimately driving growth in deposits and loans.

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

Monday Morning Leadership - Book

Nicol Matthews  - Email

Harvest Coaching & Consulting - Website

BIOGRAPHY: 

After a long and successful executive career in building credit unions, Nicol Matthews is now the principal behind Harvest Coaching & Consulting. Nicol can be reached at [email protected].

This week, Mark welcomes Scott Jordan from the Alternative Finance Network to explore the unique landscape of alternative lending in the cannabis industry. Scott shares insights from his career journey, breaking down who the key lenders are and what makes alternative financing work for this fast-growing sector. From discussing the legal challenges at state and federal levels to predicting the industry’s growth to $100 billion by 2027, Scott offers a deep dive into cannabis financing and what the future may hold for businesses and lenders.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:20] Scott shares a bit about himself and his career journey
• [4:41] Scott explains who the lenders are in the Alternative Finance Network and the risks and perceived risks
• [9:36] Who are the customers of Alternative Finance Network, and discussion and examples of exit strategies for those businesses
• [14:23] Discussion of federal and state legalities for providing financial services to the cannabis industry
• [20:30] How the lending environment changed since the availability is more widespread
• [23:25] Scott gives his predictions of where the cannabis business is going from the business and financial services side 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Alternative financing for cannabis-related industries comes from diverse sources, including cannabis-friendly banks, credit unions, leasing companies, and specialty lenders. Many of these funds ultimately trace back to banks or wealthy private investors, creating a network that enables specialized lending.
• In alternative lending, high interest rates can't compensate for risky investments with low repayment potential. Successful lenders look for market mismatches, where perceived risk is higher than actual risk, creating opportunities for smart, lower-risk lending.
• Scott predicts continued growth in the cannabis industry, predicting it will reach $100 billion by 2027. He anticipates gradual state-by-state legalization and eventual federal regulation, especially for safer, cashless payment solutions. They’re optimistic about expanding services, including mainstream credit card options and international market entry, and see social equity initiatives as pivotal for industry inclusivity and growth.

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

Scott Jordan - LinkedIn

Alternative Finance Network - Website

Scott Jordan - Email

BIOGRAPHY: 

I created the Alternative Finance Network to serve marijuana and hemp business owners by providing one-stop shopping for all your cannabis loan needs. Whether it is financing real estate, equipment, working capital, or accounts receivable I have a funding source who can fund that loan AND get you the best possible rate and terms for your needs.

This week, Mark Brennan joins Mark to discuss his incredible journey in the credit union industry, from the highs and lows to his experiences in leadership and the transition into retirement. Mark’s had a remarkable career, spending nearly 27 years with Clearview Federal Credit Union, including 17 years as CEO, where he brought his unique HR and strategic planning background to the role. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:53] Mark Brennan shares his background with US Airways and Clearview Federal Credit Union
• [7:59] The credit union was presented as a company benefit
• [17:36] Changing the name of the credit union and welcoming the community-required education
• [23:05] Collaborating with other credit unions and succession planning
• [29:16] Mark advises C-Suite people wanting to move forward
• [31:00] Mark shares his retirement lifestyle and his parting thoughts on the credit union industry

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Presenting a credit union as an employee benefit highlights its value and encourages employees to explore how it can support their financial well-being
• Credit unions prioritize community over competition, collaborating to strengthen local support, unlike banks that often focus on acquisitions
• Working at a credit union can be deeply fulfilling. Mark Brennan reflects fondly on his time at Clearview Federal Credit Union, sharing that the relationships with his coworkers and the supportive environment made it the highlight of his career

RESOURCE LINKS

Mark Ritter - Website

Mark Ritter - LinkedIn

Applied Valuation Services - Website

Mark Brennan - LinkedIn