Local Cents by Pillar Bank

In this podcast episode, Pillar Bank CEO Shane Bauer shares the transformative impact of the newly introduced "Pillar Bank Principles" program.

In Wisconsin, summers offer more than state or county fairs, they also bring Farm Technology Days to the state that’s referred to as Dairy Land. This technology fair brings farmers, technologists, and others to gather for three days of Ag camaraderie where visitors will discover the latest in technology that’s helping advance food growth and production.

This year’s event is held August 13-15 in Cadott, WI.  Pillar Bank’s Ag expert, Mike DeLong, shares all the details and more in this podcast episode.  Visiting Ag Tech? Visit our booth and register for a high-tech drone giveaway.

You’ve got a great business idea, and you’re ready to take the next step. Or perhaps you’re pondering what it will take to start a business? The success of your new business venture involves several key steps, including access to the right resources. Join Pillar Bank’s Tony Meyers, VP/Commercial Loan Officer, as he guides you through the process of starting a business.

This Local Cents podcast episode explores …

• Why it’s important to have a team of experts to guide and support your journey

• How to lay a strong foundation by creating a business plan

• Why you should be strategically agile and adaptable as conditions shift

• And, much more – monitoring financial statements, keeping records, hiring, and raising capital

By following Tony’s advice and leveraging community resources, you will be well-prepared to transform your business idea into a successful and prosperous enterprise. Visit any of Pillar Bank’s locations to speak with a banker about starting your own business.

What is compliance? Why is it important? Listen to this podcast as Deann LaValley, Pillar Bank’s Director of Compliance, talks all things compliance.

You’ll learn …

•Why compliance is important for Pillar Bank

Learn about the key factors to consider when purchasing a home in today’s housing market from experts in real estate and financing. Whether you’re in the market, in the consideration phase, or just want to learn more about today’s market, you’ll gain valuable insights to confidently help you navigate the process, including knowing exactly what the many acronyms mean.  If you’re a first-time homebuyer, listen in for the various programs available to help you become a homeowner.  

‘Keep Youthful, Drink Milk’ – just one of the dairy industry slogans that are part of the industry’s rich history. 

In Wisconsin, dairy farmers are honored throughout June. Most counties have a breakfast, brunch, or dinner celebration and all are welcome to join.

Ag expert Mike DeLong shares his dairy knowledge in this fun and informative episode.

Tough labor markets. Projected to get more challenging in the years ahead. Net new employment statewide in Wisconsin predicts a mere 129 workers will be added in 2030.

Coupled with shortages in housing and childcare, it’s challenging for employers to attract people. That’s where Family Friendly Workplace (FFW) plays a role both helping employers recruit employees and aiding in economic development.

FFW helps with recruitment efforts of organizations like Pillar Bank. “It’s a stamp of excellence,” says Neil Kline, FFW Executive Director.  He’s on a mission to ensure communities, employers, and families in western Wisc. are thriving.

Listen to hear more about FFW and Kline’s definition of the perfect outcome. He’s joined by Pillar Bank’s Head of HR, Kathy Vande Berg, who shares how the process works and how it aligns with culture.

Exploring the concept of strong business relationships in banking inspired us to develop a sales and service playbook. Picture it as a sports team working together, reflecting on the teams Mission, Vision, and Values through our strategic plays.

By building and growing our customer base through asking the right questions and understanding the customers perspective. Success goes beyond sales and service alone; it hinges on grasping the fundamentals and continuous learning. We emphasize listening and understanding our customers' needs.

Establishing a personal bond by meeting customers face-to-face significantly enhances the relationship. While digital meetings via Teams or Zoom, etc. have evolved, now we can meet whenever it works for our customers, Communications is at our fingertips.

Our ultimate measure of success is assisting customers in achieving and surpassing their goals.

Having grown up on a Wisconsin farm and spent his career in Agriculture finance, Mike DeLong offers sage advice for farmers managing through economic cycles including today’s price down tick.

Prices go up and prices go down – cycles typically last 18-32 months. Mike shares how farmers can manage risk, reduce expenses, and protect income.

From crops to dairy to cattle, there are ways to help smooth the ride when prices are down.  It’s a balancing act, and often revolves around close examination of key indicators and comparisons to peer groups to uncover the cents that make the most sense for the Ag business.

Mike works closely with his Ag clients and graciously shares his expertise to help farmers thrive.

Guest Charlie Walker, President of Chippewa Economic Development Corporation, discusses recruiting new businesses, supporting existing ones, assisting entrepreneurs, and attracting talent to Chippewa Falls, WI.

Economic development involves listening, connecting people, and collaborating with various entities like Chambers and Universities. Like Pillar Bank, they help businesses by offering advice and making connections. The organization offers mentoring programs for small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures in a diversified region encompassing manufacturing, agriculture, and technology.

Find out why economic development is a team sport, what the heck the BEAR has to do with it, and learn about some area challenges in healthcare, power capacity, technology (AI), foreign investment and more!