The CUInsight Experience

“At the heart of every digital transformation is cultural transformation.” - Michael Crowl

Thank you for tuning in to episode 195 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Velera, formerly PSCU/Co-op Solutions, the nation’s premier payments credit union service organization and an integrated financial technology solutions provider. Velera serves more than 4,000 financial institutions throughout North America, operating with velocity to help its clients keep pace with the rapid momentum of change and fuel growth in the new era of financial services.

My guest on today's show is Michael Crowl, President & CEO of University Federal Credit Union (UFCU). Michael shares his career journey that led him to credit unions and his current role. He shares the value of curiosity and reflects on pivotal experiences that shaped his leadership style. The team at UFCU understands human-centered design in digital transformation and innovates to be compelling, maintain authenticity, and engage members effectively.

During our conversation, Michael shares insights into the evolving financial landscape and emphasizes the need to be compelling and not just relevant in today's fast-paced world. He discusses the importance of transforming technology and culture to maintain authenticity and member engagement. Michael shares the lasting impact mentors have had on his career and advises those working towards a leadership role. Listen as we discuss the value in cultural and digital transformation, the power of curiosity, and authentic leadership that prioritizes others.

As we wrap up the show, listen as Michael talks about a new chapter in his life as empty nesters, energy management, and a book he recommends to everyone. 

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Michael:
Michael Crowl, President & CEO of UFCU
ufcu.org
Michael: LinkedIn
UFCU: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X | Youtube

“Push the envelope. Don't let your role, your organization, our industry as a whole become stagnant.” - Lauren Culp

Thank you for tuning in to episode 194 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Velera, formerly PSCU/Co-op Solutions, the nation’s premier payments credit union service organization and an integrated financial technology solutions provider. Velera serves more than 4,000 financial institutions throughout North America, operating with velocity to help its clients keep pace with the rapid momentum of change and fuel growth in the new era of financial services.

My guest on today’s show is Lauren Culp, the current President & CEO of CUInsight and soon-to-be ​​Executive Director at the National Credit Union Foundation. Lauren discusses her upcoming career transition and reflects on her time at CUInsight. She shares valuable insights about leadership, communication, career development, and how we can break new ground to grow our industry.

During our conversation, Lauren opens up about the bittersweet nature of leaving CUInsight after five impactful years, reflecting on the accomplishments she's most proud of. She is excited about the people in the credit union industry and the alignment of their goals to help evolve and grow our movement. Lauren shares insights and offers tips on executing strategic plans and getting everyone on board. She emphasizes the importance of listening, collaborating, and fostering a supportive team culture. Listen as we explore the theme of transitions, including the larger shifts happening within the credit union space.

As we wrap up the show, listen in as Lauren shares the best advice she’s been given around feedback, a book she recommends, and inspiration to change the world. Enjoy my conversation with Lauren Culp!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Lauren:
Lauren Culp, President & CEO at CUInsight
cuinsight.com
Lauren: LinkedIn
CUInsight: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | X

“When we take a minute to help ourselves, that leaves us in a better place to support others.” - Robbie Young

Thank you for tuning in to episode 193 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Velera, formerly PSCU/Co-op Solutions, the nation’s premier payments credit union service organization and an integrated financial technology solutions provider. Velera serves more than 4,000 financial institutions throughout North America, operating with velocity to help its clients keep pace with the rapid momentum of change and fuel growth in the new era of financial services.

My guest on today’s show is Robbie Young, VP of Strategic Growth at CUInsight, and advocate for mental health awareness. Robbie shares her story explaining the “why” behind her passion for mental health awareness. She offers heartfelt insights that emphasize why it's so important to have open and honest dialogue around mental health.

During our conversation, We explore practical ways that leaders can initiate conversations, break down stigmas, and create spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. Robbie shares valuable resources available to credit unions to provide mental health awareness and support their teams. She discusses ways to create a culture that values and recognizes mental health and shares how to measure the effectiveness of our efforts. Listen as we discuss ways to have conversations around mental health, create change for the better, and stay relevant for the future.

As we wrap up the show, listen in as Robbie shares the last time she was amazed during a Global Women’s Leadership Network event, a book she highly recommends, and lets everyone know how much they matter.

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Robbie:
Robbie Young, VP of Strategic Growth at CUInsight
cuinsight.com
Robbie: LinkedIn
CUInsight: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | X

“Trust exists at the crossroads of confidence and empathy.” - Pamela Barnum

Thank you for tuning in to episode 192 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Velera, formerly PSCU/Co-op Solutions, the nation’s premier payments credit union service organization and an integrated financial technology solutions provider. Velera serves more than 4,000 financial institutions throughout North America, operating with velocity to help its clients keep pace with the rapid momentum of change and fuel growth in the new era of financial services.

My guest on today’s show is Pamela Barnum, Trust and Nonverbal Communication Expert and keynote speaker for the upcoming CUInsight Mini-Con event. Pamela shares her career journey as a former undercover police officer and federal prosecuting attorney. She leverages her law enforcement background to teach leaders strategies to build trust, improve negotiations, and increase sales through intentional communication and body language. We are so excited to have Pamela as the keynote speaker for the next CUInsight Mini-Con event,  register today!

During our conversation, Pamela discusses the “First” principles of leadership as it relates to tactical influence. She explains how to build and maintain trust along with the crucial role of empathy in leadership. Pamela explores common pitfalls in communication and how leaders can better connect with their teams and members by understanding nonverbal cues and practicing effective listening. Listen as we discuss the power of trust, communication, and empathy to build a stronger, more productive, and more engaged culture.

As we wrap up the show, listen in as Pamela talks about creating routines, journaling, and improving each day along with some books she recommends. Enjoy my conversation with Pamela Barnum.

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Pamela:
Pamela Barnum, Trust and Nonverbal Communication Expert
pamelabarnum.com
Pamela: LinkedIn | Instagram

“As credit unions, what we do and why we do it, is incredibly important.” - Leigh Brady

Thank you for tuning in to episode 191 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Velera, formerly PSCU/Co-op Solutions, the nation’s premier payments credit union service organization and an integrated financial technology solutions provider. Velera serves more than 4,000 financial institutions throughout North America, operating with velocity to help its clients keep pace with the rapid momentum of change and fuel growth in the new era of financial services.

My guest on today’s show is Leigh Brady, President & CEO of State Employees Credit Union (SECU) in North Carolina. Leigh shares her career journey that started at SECU over 36 years ago, having grown through the ranks to becoming the President and CEO. Leigh believes people are our biggest strength and the difference makers within the financial services industry.

During our conversation, Leigh discusses challenges credit unions face today and how we can overcome them. She expresses the value in taking risks and innovating to meet members needs based on feedback. Leigh shares the lasting impact mentors have had on her career and advises those working towards a leadership role. Listen as we discuss the power of people, servant leadership, and innovating to drive our movement forward.

As we wrap up the show, listen as Leigh talks about her dad and his positive impact on others, being intentional with your time, and her book recommendation. Enjoy my conversation with Leigh Brady!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Leigh:
Leigh Brady, President & CEO of State Employees’ Credit Union
ncsecu.org
Leigh: LinkedIn
SECU: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

“We have to listen to people to understand their experience.” - Jill Nowacki

Thank you for tuning in to episode 190 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Velera, formerly PSCU/Co-op Solutions, the nation’s premier payments credit union service organization and an integrated financial technology solutions provider. Velera serves more than 4,000 financial institutions throughout North America, operating with velocity to help its clients keep pace with the rapid momentum of change and fuel growth in the new era of financial services.

My guest on today’s show is Jill Nowacki, Founder, President & CEO of Humanidei. Jill shares how she started her career in credit unions over 20 years ago and reflects on the last five years since Humanidei was developed. Credit unions work with Humanidei to integrate their most important asset, human capital, into organizational growth plans to win the war for talent. 

During our conversation, Jill discusses being optimistic when facing one of the industry’s biggest challenges—the pace of changing complexities in running an organization and how to keep teams aligned and moving forward. She shares the value in providing autonomy to employees and members to create a frictionless and high-performing experience. Jill notes the key to receiving insightful feedback is asking open-ended questions. Listen as we discuss how to remove friction and create more meaningful experiences for employees and members.

As we wrap up the show, listen as Jill talks about self-growth, her excitement for traveling this summer with family, and what book she is getting ready to read with her team. Enjoy my conversation with Jill Nowacki!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Jill:
Jill Nowacki, President & CEO of Humanidei
humanidei.com
Jill: LinkedIn | Instagram | X
Humanidei: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X 

“It takes five percent of people to make a difference.” - John Hope Bryant

Thank you for tuning in to episode 189 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Motivosity.  Motivosity is all about building amazing company cultures that help people be happier at work. Through building recognition, connection, and community within the credit union, Motivosity makes your employees more engaged, and in turn, your members are too. 

My guest on today’s show is John Hope Bryant; Founder, Chairman, & CEO of Operation HOPE. He acted as the Vice Chairman of the President’s Advisory Council on Financial Literacy and he’s the author of a best-selling book Financial Literacy for All. John shares life experiences that drove him to a career in promoting financial literacy. Operation HOPE is the largest financial literacy coaching organization in America. 

During our conversation, John talks about the importance of financial literacy and ways to improve financial dignity in our communities and nationwide. He shares ways credit union leaders can become better equipped to empower employees and educate members in becoming financially healthy. Operation HOPE strives to find new and innovative ways to promote financial literacy for all and advance economic opportunity by providing people with the tools needed to reach their goals. Listen as John talks about making financial literacy a non-negotiable priority.

As we wrap up the episode, John talks about remembering the best advice he’s received, listening to Quincy Jones, and loving the work he does. Enjoy my conversation with John Hope Bryant!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find John:
John Hope Bryant; Founder, Chairman, & CEO of Operation HOPE
[email protected]
operationhope.org
John: LinkedIn
Operation HOPE: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X

“Our opportunity is to figure out how to retain and elevate talent within our movement.” - Tobi Weingart

Thank you for tuning in to episode 188 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Motivosity.  Motivosity is all about building amazing company cultures that help people be happier at work. Through building recognition, connection, and community within the credit union, Motivosity makes your employees more engaged, and in turn, your members are too. 

My guest on today’s show is Tobi Weingart, Chief Program Officer at the National Credit Union Foundation (NCUF). Tobi shares her career journey in credit unions that began after college. She encourages teams to create an environment that supports talent and provides opportunities to the rising stars of our movement. The National Credit Union Foundation is the charitable arm of the industry working to improve people's financial lives.

During our conversation, Tobi talks about nurturing and empowering professional development within teams. She discusses the importance of embracing opportunity to retain and elevate talent within the credit union movement. Tobi mentions numerous programs and workshops that ensure everyone in the organization has access to mission-based training. She shares the lasting impact mentors have had on her career and advises those working towards a leadership role. Listen as Tobi talks about the vast benefits of Credit Union Development Education (DE Program) and what leaders can do to create the best environment for developing talent.

As we wrap up the episode, Tobi talks about spending time in nature, listening to nostalgic music, and admiring her grandma. Enjoy my conversation with Tobi Weingart!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Tobi:
Tobi Weingart, Chief Program Officer at the National Credit Union Foundation
[email protected]
ncuf.coop
Tobi: LinkedIn
NCUF: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | X

“Inspire people to grow and use their potential.” - Lisa Florian

Thank you for tuning in to episode 187 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Motivosity.  Motivosity is all about building amazing company cultures that help people be happier at work. Through building recognition, connection, and community within the credit union, Motivosity makes your employees more engaged, and in turn, your members are too. 

My guest on today's show is Lisa Florian, President & CEO at Clearview FCU. Lisa shares her career journey in financial services that led her to where she is today. She strives for a collaborative team culture to support members and one another. The team at Clearview is committed to creating inclusive and thriving communities where financial growth and prosperity are accessible to everyone.

During our conversation, Lisa talks about meeting members where they are and expanding financial services where members show interest. She discusses the importance of communication and collaboration as it reflects team culture. Lisa shares the lasting impact mentors have had on her career and advises those working towards a leadership role. Listen as we discuss ways to drive our industry forward by inspiring others to grow, act, and live up to their potential.

As we wrap up the show, listen in as Lisa talks about the importance of self-care and work-life integration, nostalgic music from her favorite decades, and books she recommends. Enjoy my conversation with Lisa Florian!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Lisa:
Lisa Florian, President & CEO at Clearview FCU
[email protected]
clearviewfcu.org
Lisa: LinkedIn
Clearview: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | X | Pinterest

“A great leader starts with empathy.”  - Tim Anderson

Thank you for tuning in to episode 186 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Motivosity.  Motivosity is all about building amazing company cultures that help people be happier at work. Through building recognition, connection, and community within the credit union, Motivosity makes your employees more engaged, and in turn, your members are too. 

My guest on today's show is Tim Anderson, President & CEO of United States Senate Federal Credit Union (USSFCU). Tim shares his 40+ year career journey in financial services that led him to where he is today. Tim encourages empathy and builds a people-centric culture where employees feel empowered. Together, the team at USSFCU improves financial wellness by integrating sustainability and security into every financial solution.

During our conversation, Tim talks about the power of thoughtful and innovative leadership. He discusses the significance of digital transformation to remain relevant and competitive in today’s environment. Tim values the lasting impact mentors have had on his career and shares ideas on what we can do to raise the leaders of tomorrow. Listen as we discuss the importance of empathy and pouring into our people to drive the credit union movement forward.

As we wrap up the show, listen in as Tim talks about his early-career adventures, his recommended read, and his top Michael Jackson album. Enjoy my conversation with Tim Anderson!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher 

Books mentioned on The CUInsight Experience podcast: Book List 

How to find Tim:
Tim Anderson, President & CEO of United States Senate Federal Credit Union
[email protected]
[email protected]
ussfcu.org
Tim: LinkedIn
USSFCU: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | X