“Focus on what matters, where it matters, and where you can make the most impact.” - James Schenck

Thank you for tuning in to episode 76 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by our friends at PSCU. As the nation’s premier payments CUSO, PSCU proudly supports the success of more than 1,500 credit unions.

While many credit unions contemplate the future of service for their members, PenFed Credit Union has been able to leverage their remote infrastructure to thrive in an otherwise chaotic environment. On this week’s episode, I’m sitting down with James Schenck, President and CEO of PenFed Credit Union, to learn more about his team’s strategic approach to digital service; how that has prepared the PenFed team to face hurricanes, blizzards, and even pandemics; and why credit unions are perfectly positioned to serve Main Street America. 

During our discussion, James and I discuss how his team has seamlessly transitioned to remote work since the start of COVID-19. We also talk about James’ recent article in Forbes about effectively communicating with your team. James also shares his thoughts on the future of credit unions, playing the long-game, and giving back to the community. 

In the leadership and life hacks section, James and I discuss his transition from a military career as a helicopter pilot to President and CEO of the largest credit union. We chat about how the inspiration has changed since he started, the need to be empathetic and listen, his father’s advice to lift books not weights, and more. He also shares that he yells "I Love Working Here!" at the start and end of his work day. 

We close out the episode with some fun, rapid-fire questions about James’ personal life. We learn that he used to work a multitude of jobs in high school, earned his pilot licence at the age of 17, and that he is energized by being around people. This was a great conversation that I’m sure you’ll enjoy! Be sure to hit play and give it a listen. 

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find James:
James Schenck, President and CEO of PenFed Credit Union
[email protected]
https://www.penfed.org
https://penfedfoundation.org
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