Your Story. Your Bank.

What does it take to turn a dream of owning a veterinary practice into reality? In this episode, Jon David Johnson, owner of The Vet Depot in Flora, MS, shares his journey of building a veterinary clinic centered on exceptional care, personal relationships, and community. From creating a one-stop destination for veterinary services, boarding, and grooming to overcoming the challenges of starting a business, Jon David reflects on the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision. He also shares how his relationship with Dawson Graves and Story Financial Partners provided more than financial support, offering guidance, valuable connections, and a trusted partnership that helped bring his dream to life.

What can happen when someone believes in your vision before the success is there to prove it? In this episode, Cameron Hartley, owner of Hartley Equipment in Gluckstadt, Mississippi, shares his journey from running a lawn business to building a growing outdoor power equipment company with a 21,000-square-foot facility. Cameron reflects on his ambition to keep growing, his long-standing relationship with Story Financial Partners, and the difference between simply having a bank and having a true financial partner. It's a story about big goals, trusted relationships, and the people who believe in you along the way.

What happens when experienced business leaders see an opportunity to build something of their own? In this episode, Casey Broussard and Emily Speed share the story behind Speed HVAC & Plumbing and their vision for building a locally owned service company grounded in honesty, relationships, and trust. They discuss moving from corporate careers into entrepreneurship, developing the next generation of skilled tradespeople, and why solving the customer's problem comes before making the biggest sale. You'll also hear why their relationship with Story Financial Partners gives them the personal, hometown banking experience they value as they grow their business across Central Mississippi.

Thinking about changing banks but not sure where to start? In this episode, Story Financial Partners associates explain how their personalized approach makes switching banks simple, seamless, and stress-free. From transferring direct deposits and automatic payments to setting up online banking and ensuring nothing is overlooked, they walk through each step of the process. Along the way, you'll hear why Story Financial Partners is committed to more than transactions—building lasting relationships, delivering exceptional service, and helping clients feel welcomed, valued, and supported from day one.

What does it take to turn a simple business idea into a growing company with a vision for statewide impact? In this episode, J.R. Crowell, founder of Steady Home Maintenance, shares how he transitioned from banking into entrepreneurship and built a business focused on solving everyday homeowner challenges. From creating a proactive approach to home maintenance to expanding into remodeling and future acquisitions, J.R. discusses the importance of staying focused on your mission while growing with intention. He also shares how Story Financial Partners associates have provided the guidance, responsiveness, and trusted partnership needed to help his business scale with confidence.

Who has shaped the way you lead—and who are you shaping in return? In part two of this live panel from the Women Who Lead event, the conversation turns to mentorship, influence, and the responsibility of pouring into others. From lessons learned from mothers and mentors to practical advice on overcoming self-doubt and building meaningful relationships, this episode offers encouragement for women navigating leadership at every stage. You'll also hear how intentional support and connection—both personally and through Story Financial Partners associates—can create lasting impact across generations.

What does it take to carry a family business into the next generation while staying true to its roots? In this episode, Mims McLennan shares the story of Ward Mechanical Equipment, a Mississippi-based company serving contractors across the state since 1965. From a recent ownership transition to a continued commitment to service, community, and quality, Mims reflects on what it means to lead a locally owned business. He also discusses how working with Story Financial Partners associates helped ensure a smooth transition and positioned the company for future growth while remaining deeply connected to the community it serves.

What truly sets one bank apart from another? In this episode, leaders and associates from Story Financial Partners share how relationships, trust, and accessibility define the client experience. From meeting clients wherever they are—even in unexpected moments—to offering honest guidance as trusted advisors, this conversation highlights the value of putting people first. You'll hear how strong internal teamwork, personal connections, and a commitment to service continue to drive growth while keeping community at the center of everything they do.

What does strong leadership really look like in today's world? Recorded live at the Women Who Lead event and hosted by the Madison County, Mississippi Professional Women's Group, this episode features Pam Gordon, Leanne Stamper, Tina Lakey, and Lauren McGraw sharing honest stories about business, family, faith, and community.

From building a business without confidence to leading with conviction and purpose, this conversation stresses the importance of mentorship, personal ownership, and surrounding yourself with the right people. You'll also hear how faith shapes leadership, why positivity is a choice, and how meaningful relationships may transform both your work and your life.