Podcast Topics

In this episode, Chris Nichols and DJ Seeterlin explore what banks can learn from Trader Joe’s approach to strategy, focusing on clear customer segments, intentional trade-offs, and delivering value over price. They discuss how aligning products, people, and experiences around a defined audience can help banks stand out, and how these same principles apply to…

In this episode, Chris Nichols sits down with Jack Henry’s Lee Wetherington to unpack the biggest strategic shifts facing community banks today. From deposit pressures and the rise of small business banking to the growing importance of data strategy and payments, the conversation highlights how banks must rethink their approach to growth. The discussion makes…

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Udell, a former community banker turned AI advisor, to break down what AI actually means for banks today and how to start using it in practical ways. Ben shares how bankers can use AI to save time, sharpen decision-making, and enhance relationships. From turning voice notes into…

Today we speak with Karan Bhalla, Founder and CEO of AiVantage. He tells us about how banks can utilize AI to personalize their marketing efforts and, in turn, deepen client relationships.   The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of…

Today Chris Nichols sits down with Ryan Zacharia and Adam Aspes, partners at FINTOP. Returning after four years from their last appearance on our show, they discuss tokenization, AI, and the digital transformations banks are undergoing in an era of evolving technology.   The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those…

Today we talk with Carey Ransom, founder of BankTech Ventures. We discuss what success for fintechs looks like and which tech investments are improving overhead efficiency. He also tells us where banks are hesitant with AI and where banks can get started with it. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely…

Today Chris Nichols sits down with Steven Ramirez from Beyond the Arc to discuss their thoughts on Money 20/20. They talk about stablecoin, fraud, AI, and several other topics that banks should be thinking on as we move into 2026.   The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the…

Today, Chris Nichols sits down with Alex Johnson, author of popular newsletter Fintech Takes. They discuss the importance of Stablecoin as it’s related to the banking industry and why community banks should pay attention to it. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not…

Today we sit down with Will Bryant, Co-Founder of Quantalytix. We discuss how your bank can build a strategy around getting the most of your institution’s data. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees….

Today we talk with Christian Ruppe, Chief Innovation Officer of Colony Bank in Georgia. Christian talks about the strategic technology and innovation initiatives Colony has invested in to continue serving their customers with excellence. VIEW AGENDA AND REGISTER FOR THE ELEVATE BANKING FORUM HERE The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely…

Today our own Chris Nichols sits down with Raphael Reznek, Chief Technology Officer of Mascoma Bank. They discuss bank architecture and focus on leveraging technology to your bank’s benefit in the current, evolving world around AI.   Learn more about and register for Elevate here! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are…

Today we feature an internal conversation with Curtis Campbell, SouthState Bank’s Director of Cybersecurity Training and Education. She discusses the importance of having a plan for cybersecurity and ensuring that your bank’s team members are well-equipped to defend against cyber threats. LEARN MORE ABOUT ELEVATE HERE.   The views, information, or opinions expressed during this…