The CUInsight Network

“Get curious about your organization and what your communities need.” - Pixie Gray

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Pixie Gray, VP of Organizational Development at CUES. Pixie shares her career journey that led her to her current role. CUES provides leadership and professional development services to C-suite executives, board members, HR leaders, and emerging leaders in the credit union industry. The team at CUES is dedicated to the growth, development, and success of our movement.

During our conversation, Pixie explains how CUES stands out in the crowded market of leadership development by offering training that is tailored to the unique needs of credit unions. She highlights the importance of staying relevant in an ever-changing environment, discussing the need for fresh perspectives to ensure the continued success of credit unions. As we look to the future, CUES is focused on elevating its offerings to continue meeting and exceeding the needs of the industry.

As we wrap up the episode, Pixie talks about a credit union leader who left a lasting impact on her and the industry as a whole. She enjoys new and exciting dining experiences and shares tips to find balance in life. 

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Pixie:
Pixie Gray, VP of Organizational Development at CUES
[email protected]
cues.org
Pixie: LinkedIn
CUES: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X

“We help credit unions find solutions to their challenges.” - Barb Lowman

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Barb Lowman, President at CUNA Strategic Services (CSS). Barb is a return guest to the podcast and shares a brief overview of her previous episode. CSS connects credit unions and leagues to the industry's top solution providers. The team at CSS understands the issues credit unions face, finds solutions to solve those problems, and distributes those solutions to credit unions of all sizes.

During our conversation, Barb and I chat about the value CSS provides in connecting, collaborating, and providing solutions for the credit union system. She talks about CSS’ new webinar series, Safeguarding Your Credit Union’s Future, and shares how it was designed based on the needs and feedback of executives in the industry. Barb shares the passion and commitment of the CSS team to help credit unions thrive and better serve their members. As we look to the future, Barb shares their plan to rebrand and reimagine their strategy to continue serving the credit union industry.

As we wrap up the episode, Barb talks about an upcoming trip she is excited about, a book she recommends, and the importance of being intentional and spreading kindness.

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Barb:
Barb Lowman, President at CUNA Strategic Services
[email protected]
cunastrategicservices.com
Barb: LinkedIn
CSS: LinkedIn

“We’re focused on how we can impact, influence and support credit unions.”- Libby Calderone

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guests on today’s show are Libby Calderone, President & COO at Envisant and Tom Kane, President & CEO at Illinois Credit Union League. Libby and Tom share their career journeys that led them to their current roles. Envisant, a subsidiary of the Illinois Credit Union League, provides exceptional pricing and functionality in the card space by aggregating credit unions of diverse sizes. Envisant helps credit unions find solutions and achieve their vision through experience and expertise.

During our conversation, we discuss all that Envisant has achieved to earn CUSO Of The Year, awarded by NACUSO and what that means to Libby and Tom as we look to the future. Libby talks about Envisant’s partnership with Curql Collective, providing opportunity for credit unions with assets above $100 million to jointly invest in transformative technology to remain competitive and relevant. Tom announces an upcoming transition in leadership at the Illinois Credit Union League and Libby shares excitement in what’s to come. Listen as Libby and Tom talk about their dedication to the movement in helping credit unions grow, thrive, and prepare for the future.

As we wrap up the episode, Libby and Tom share great leaders in their life, what they are splurging on these days when it comes to travel and home renovations, along with how to balance work and home life. Enjoy my conversation with Libby and Tom!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Libby:
Libby Calderone, President & COO at Envisant
www.envisant.com
Libby: LinkedIn
Envisant: LinkedIn | Facebook | X 

Connect with Tom:
Tom Kane, President & CEO of Illinois Credit Union League
www.icul.com
Tom: LinkedIn
Illinois Credit Union League: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X

"My first real great leader was my grandmother. She had an eighth-grade education but built her own business and just had a really good business head on her shoulders. It was kind of a 'follow me' type leadership." - Brett Koedam

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

I am happy to be bringing this conversation with Brett Koedam to you for this episode. Brett is the Senior Vice President of Financial Institutions at PAI, a pivotal player in the ATM space. We explore Brett's journey from his beginnings in a small ATM company to overseeing PAI's extensive network spanning 110,000 ATMs nationwide!

Join us as we unpack how PAI supports credit unions by managing the complexities of ATM operations, freeing them to focus on member experiences. Brett highlights PAI's role in filling banking gaps left by branch closures, offering insights into things such as strategic ATM placement.

Tune in to discover why over 40% of Gen Zers choose institutions based on ATM availability and how credit unions can capitalize on this trend through PAI's extensive surcharge-free network and customizable branding solutions. Brett and I also discuss PAI's future roadmap, including exciting developments in ATM technology and their new mobile branch concept designed to revolutionize banking access in underserved areas!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Brett:
Brett Koedam; Senior Vice President of Financial Institutions at PAI - A Brink’s Company
gopai.com
Brett: LinkedIn
PAI: LinkedIn | Facebook

Show notes from this episode:
Book mentioned: The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley & William D. Danko

In this episode:
[00:51] - Brett reveals how he founded and expanded his own ATM company, PAI, serving nationwide markets.
[02:34] - PAI specializes in outsourcing ATM management for credit unions, simplifying operations.
[04:53] - PAI also helps credit unions enhance services with strategic ATM placements nationwide.
[06:26] - We learn that PAI offers credit unions expanded ATM access without the hassle of location logistics.
[09:09] - Brett's grandmother, with minimal education, inspired him with entrepreneurial spirit and leadership.
[09:48] - Brett prioritizes family expenses over personal luxuries, dreaming of a non-Texas summer home someday.
[11:11] - Brett credits The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko as his favorite book.
[11:42] - Work-life integration was key during Brett's busy years running his own company.
[12:43] - Hear how PAI offers ATM products, managed services, and innovative solutions.

“We help credit union members overcome the financial challenges faced when paying for college.” - Jim Holt

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Jim Holt, Chief Development Officer at Student Choice. Jim shares his career journey that led him to his current role. Student Choice works with credit unions to deliver innovative financing solutions that help members responsibly overcome the challenges of higher education affordability.

During our conversation, Jim shares how private student lending can benefit credit unions and their members. He explains the importance of engaging and retaining younger members and how credit unions can do so by offering student loans. Jim shares the opportunities for cross-selling and strengthening member relationships throughout the lifecycle of a private student loan. He discusses the value in offering nontraditional student loans for vocational schools and even pilot training. Listen as Jim talks about the many opportunities for credit unions to provide future-focused funding.

As we wrap up the episode, Jim talks about a mentor who helped him early in his career, a bar built by him and his wife, and a tip to attending concerts, but purchasing tickets the day of so they’re less expensive. Enjoy my conversation with Jim Holt!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Jim:
Jim Holt, Chief Development Officer at Student Choice
creditunions.studentchoice.org
Jim: LinkedIn
Student Choice: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X

“We are truly helping the underserved.” - Lorrie Wohlfeil

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Lorrie Wohlfeil, COO and Consultant at Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc. Lorrie shares her career journey that is deeply rooted in the credit union industry and influenced by her father, Rex Johnson. Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc. provides comprehensive training and on-site consulting to address and overcome the challenges credit unions face.

During our conversation, Lorrie shares the foundational principles that drive Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc. to serve their members with empathy and expertise. She explains how education and understanding can transform financial outcomes for members. Lorrie shares their unique approach of blending classroom education with hands-on experience, where consultants step into the shoes of credit union staff to ensure the practical application of knowledge. Listen as Lorrie talks about empowering credit union teams to educate, serve, and support members through each stage of their lives.

As we wrap up the episode, Lorrie talks about her admiration for her father, traveling with her family, and work-life balance tips. Enjoy my conversation with Lorrie Wohlfeil!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Lorrie:
Lorrie Wohlfeil, COO and Consultant at Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc.
rexcuadvice.com
Lorrie: LinkedIn
Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X

“Everything rises and falls on leadership.” - Bill Partin

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Bill Partin, Founder & CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) at The Leadership Bet. Bill shares his career journey in financial services that led him to his current role. His passion for credit unions and leadership led him to building The Leadership Bet. The Leadership Bet helps credit union teams become their best by developing leaders, driving results, and creating an energizing people-first culture.

During our conversation, Bill shares the importance of leadership development and the positive impact it has on individuals, teams, and overall workplace culture. He talks about setting an intentional process where team members feel valued, and how these strategic goals ripple throughout the organization. Bill explains the significance in aligning your strategic plan and culture plan to deepen relationships and grow. Listen as Bill talks about developing leadership that is abundant and purpose-driven.

As we wrap up the episode, Bill talks about visiting his hometown, books he enjoys and highly recommends, and journaling to keep a healthy work-life balance. Enjoy my conversation with Bill Partin!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Bill:
Bill Partin, Founder & CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) at The Leadership Bet
[email protected]
theleadershipbet.com       
Bill: LinkedIn
The Leadership Bet: LinkedIn

“Our goal is to empower the Latinx community in the credit union industry.” - Barbara Mojica

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Barbara Mojica, Executive Director at NLCUP (National Association of Latino Credit Unions & Professionals). Barbara shares the journey that led her to her current role at NLCUP and how crashing the GAC ignited her credit union spark. NLCUP is dedicated to increasing professional development opportunities and providing services and financial education to the Hispanic/Latino community.

During our conversation, Barbara explains ways credit unions can support the Hispanic/Latino community and empower Latinx professionals in the industry. She talks about strategically placing leaders for better representation of diverse communities. Barbara shares the challenges women of color face and how the credit union industry can better support them. Listen as Barbara talks about helping credit unions connect, serve, and empower the Latinx community.

As we wrap up the episode, Barbara talks about admiring her mom, treating herself to spa days, and visiting Puerto Rico. Enjoy my conversation with Barbara Mojica!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Barbara:
Barbara Mojica, Executive Director at NLCUP
[email protected]
nlcup.org       
Barbara: LinkedIn
NLCUP: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram 

“Challenge yourself to be great.” - Kurt Klassen

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Kurt Klassen, Executive Vice President at LEVEL5. Kurt shares his career journey that led him to his current role. The team at LEVEL 5 allows credit unions to think ahead, plan well, build smart, and grow. Kurt encourages listeners to embrace a bold vision and believes that every credit union team can reach its potential. LEVEL5 helps credit unions minimize risk while amplifying growth through branch development and redesign.

During our conversation, Kurt discusses how credit unions can develop a branch strategy. He shares insights about understanding your markets and evaluating your unique service delivery. Listen as Kurt talks about customizing your branch design and building an effective strategy to increase performance and opportunities for your credit union.

As we wrap up the episode, Kurt shares memories about being inspired by servant leadership, loving time near water, and visiting his favorite city in CA. Enjoy my conversation with Kurt Klassen!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Kurt:
Kurt Klassen, Executive Vice President at LEVEL5
[email protected]
level5.com       
Kurt: LinkedIn
LEVEL5: LinkedIn | Youtube

“When we prioritize mental health, we create stronger, healthier, more compassionate industries for everyone.” - Robbie Young

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Robbie Young, VP of Strategic Growth at CUInsight. Robbie is a Certified Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE), mental health advocate, and our unending source of fun facts about the world. She sees CUInsight as a central source to keep credit union professionals inspired, connected, and informed. 

During our conversation, Robbie discusses the importance of mental health advocacy and shares resources. She talks about the direct and indirect influence mental health has on professionals in the industry. Robbie explains the importance of taking care of ourselves first, so we can properly care for our members and teams. She shares her experience and the benefits gained from the Credit Union Development Education (DE Program) and looks forward to returning as a mentor this year. Listen as Robbie talks about what you can do to support the mental health of yourself and others.

As we wrap up the episode, Robbie shares some of her famous fun facts, talks about downloading productivity apps, and shares her latest book recommendation. Enjoy my conversation with Robbie Young!

Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.

Connect with Robbie:
Robbie Young, VP of Strategic Growth at CUInsight
[email protected]
cuinsight.com       
Robbie: LinkedIn
CUInsight: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube | X