Credit Unions, Coffee & Conversations

This episode, Patty sits down with 2026 MCUL Young Professional of the Year Josh Buck of Members First Credit Union. Josh shares his journey from bank teller to network administrator, how he helped shape Michigan’s FUEL network and Hype the Hill and why advocacy and storytelling matter to him.

In this episode, Patty Corkery sits down with Drema Isaac, CEO of FreeStar Financial Credit Union and the newly elected Chair of the Michigan Credit Union League Board. Drema shares her journey from a coal-mining family in West Virginia to credit union leadership in Michigan.

This episode, Patty Corkery is joined by Mark Weber, CEO of Strum, and Kaye Chervenak, Chief Marketing Officer of Navari, to discuss the strategy, research and people-first mindset behind Navari’s recent rebrand. The conversation explores what makes a strong brand, why culture and brand go hand in hand and how organizations can use transformation as an opportunity to better serve their clients.

This episode, Patty Corkery talks with Kim Becking, founder of Unstoppable Momentum, about leading through uncertainty and building resilience with both grit and grace. Drawing from her personal experiences and leadership work, Becking shares practical strategies for adapting to change and focusing on what matters most.

In this episode, Patty Corkery sits down with Matt Dicou, co-founder and CEO of Reset, to talk fintech innovation and explore how earned wage access is reshaping financial flexibility for credit union members.

In this episode, Patty Corkery sits down with Julie Leonard, President and CEO of Lake Michigan Credit Union, to talk about leadership, authenticity and purpose.

In this special episode, Patty Corkery welcomes Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for a conversation on leadership, advice for young professionals, financial literacy and the role policy plays in supporting Michigan’s workforce and communities.

In this episode, Patty Corkery is joined by Humanidei President & CEO Jill Nowacki to talk about leadership, career transitions and why curiosity is a leadership advantage.

In this episode, Patty Corkery is joined by America’s Credit Unions President & CEO Scott Simpson for a conversation on leadership, a preview of the 2026 GAC and the responsibility credit unions have to show up and tell their story in Washington.

In this special holiday episode of Credit Unions, Coffee & Conversation, we’re revisiting some of the most thoughtful reflections on leadership from across the podcast. These voices — both seasoned executives and rising young professionals — share unique perspectives on what it means to lead with purpose, vision and authenticity.

Featured voices (in order):

• Deleanna Allen
• Mike Reuter
• John Ballantyne
• Kate Hall
• Lamont Black
• Dylan Bloniarz
• Cathie Mahon
• Josh Herman
• Jeff Rendel
• Julia (Patty's daughter)
• Tiffany Ford
• Sati Smith

Whether you're revisiting familiar voices or hearing these insights for the first time, we hope they inspire and energize your leadership journey heading into the new year.