FIsionaries

In this episode of the FIsionaries Podcast from Co:lab 2025, I'm joined by Liam Petraska, Digital Banking Manager at NASA Federal Credit Union. Petraska shares the remarkable story of how the $5.5 billion credit union transformed its member experience from a dated platform with 1.3-star reviews to a modern solution earning 4.8 stars in less than 18 months.

He reveals the keys to their success, including strong leadership buy-in, cross-functional collaboration, clear communication strategies, and a culture that embraces continuous evolution.

Tune in to discover how NASA Federal approaches vendor selection, manages organizational change, and maintains momentum in the constantly evolving landscape of digital banking.

From democratizing data across the organization to creating timely, personalized experiences for their 114,000 members, Chad Gramling, AVP of business intelligence at 3Rivers Federal Credit Union, explains how 3Rivers abandoned the traditional seasonal marketing calendar in favor of always-on, data-driven member engagement.

Learn how 3Rivers integrated their business intelligence, marketing, and digital teams to deliver more relevant financial solutions across all channels and why Chad believes financial institutions should "be offended that Credit Karma knows our members better than we do."

This conversation reveals practical insights into how even modestly-sized institutions can leverage data to deliver highly personalized engagements.

With assets of $2.7 billion, First Fidelity Bank has nearly doubled in size since 2017. My conversation with John Symcox, Senior Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at First Fidelity Bank, explores how smaller financial institutions can innovate at speed and scale, particularly in the underserved treasury management and commercial banking areas.

Symcox shares how the COVID-19 crisis permanently shifted his organization's approach to rapid deployment, how they've leveraged fintech partnerships to compete with major institutions, and why their focus on relationships first and technology second has been their formula for success.

Discover how this community bank has managed to "punch above its weight" in delivering innovative solutions without sacrificing the human connection that drives its business.

Financial institutions of all sizes face mounting pressure to deliver personalized experiences that rival tech giants and fintech disruptors. As consumers increasingly expect tailored financial services that anticipate their needs and preferences, credit unions must evolve beyond traditional relationship banking.

We’re joined by Steve Zich, Chief Marketing Officer of Capital Credit Union on the FIsionaries podcast. Steve has spearheaded a remarkable transformation in how his institution leverages data to enhance member relationships while maintaining the personal touch that credit unions are known for.

We explore Capital’s successful integration of advanced analytics with traditional relationship banking, examining specific opportunities and challenges that organizations can face along their journey.

We’re honored to have David Gorham, VP of Digital Solutions, Rebecca Forsberg, Director of Enterprise Application Support and Salinna Reel, Director of Digital Product Operations at Apple FCU on the FIsionaries podcast.

They share how a clear focus, incremental implementation and a strong partnership with third-party solution providers is essential for successful digital banking transformation.

They also share how using member feedback to build an innovation roadmap and continuously measuring effectiveness of changes implemented limits missteps along the transformation journey.

On this episode of the FIsionaries podcast I am at the Alkami Co:Lab event in Grapevine Texas. I’m joined by Grace Pace from Quontic Bank, headquartered in New York City. Grace will share how Quontic has leveraged a digital first strategy to establish a nationwide presence.

In addition, we discuss some of the innovations that have set Quontic Bank apart from competitors while helping the organization become future-ready.

On this episode of the FIsionaries podcast I am at the Alkami Co:Lab event in Grapevine Texas. I’m joined by Chad Rogers and Jeramey Litzman from Connexus Credit Union. Chad and Jeramey will share how Connexus has shifted from viewing digital services as a cost center to leveraging them as a profit center, setting a precedent for industry evolution.

In addition, we discuss the unique approaches to onboarding, channel strategy, and acquisition Connexus has used to drive innovation and member-centricity, positioning them as a trailblazer in the banking industry.

On this episode of the FIsionaries podcast I am at the Alkami Co:Lab event in Grapevine Texas. I’m joined by Amy Driscoll, Digital Services Analyst at Kennebec Savings Bank. Amy provides a perspective on building a modern digital platform leveraging data and insight to enhance personalization and engagement.

Amy also shares her perspective on how AI will enhance the customer experience and provide better ways of helping customers reach their financial objectives.

On this episode of the FIsionaries podcast I am at the Alkami Co:Lab event in Grapevine Texas. I’m joined by Matt Singleton, VP of payment and business solutions at Star Financial Bank. Matt shares how, despite having a modest size, it is not impossible to have a mighty vision –proving that innovation isn't just for the big players.

From harnessing cutting-edge technology to fostering deep, personal relationships with clients, Matt illustrates how Star Bank is redefining what it means to be a commercial banking partner.

On this episode of the FIsionaries podcast I am at the Alkami Co:Lab event in Grapevine Texas. I’m joined by Amy Krasikov, Vice President of Digital Experience at Raiz Federal Credit Union. Amy provides an inside look into their extensive overhaul of both their core platform and online banking system.

This revamp of their digital infrastructure has yielded amazing results, with a rapid adoption rate of 20% in less than 24 hours, escalating to over 50% within the first week. More importantly, their digital banking experience has garnered exceptional ratings of 4.8 on iOS and 4.9 on the Google Play store, reflecting the credit union's commitment to providing a seamless and user-friendly interface.

Amy also shares her vision for the future, her near-term priorities and how Raiz Federal Credit Union will continue to differentiate itself in the marketplace.