Podcast Topics

In this episode, Chris Nichols and Caleb Stevens sit down with Brennan Perkins, a recent Citadel graduate, to explore how early leadership experiences translate into a career in banking. From learning how to be an effective follower to leading peers under pressure, Brennan shares key lessons on servant leadership, attention to detail, and building influence…

In this episode, Caleb Stevens talks with Eva Daniel, founder of The Speak Shop, about why effective communication is a critical leadership skill. Eva shares why every professional should have a signature message, common mistakes leaders make when presenting, and how thoughtful storytelling and structure can dramatically increase clarity and credibility. Tune in to learn…

Today we sit down with brothers Pat and Robert McLaughlin. Though they come from different, diverse fields, Pat and Robert share a passion in leadership development. They talk to us about presence, the traits of championship teams, and what they’ve learned from their work with Jon Gordon.   The views, information, or opinions expressed during…

In this episode, former U.S. Senator and SouthState Bank board member Ben Sasse joins Caleb Stevens and Chris Kamienski for a wide-ranging conversation on the state of community banking, the loneliness epidemic, and the digital revolution reshaping the economy. _ The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants…

Today we speak with Chris Carneal, Founder and CEO of Booster, the largest elementary school fundraising company in the country. He tells us about how he’s created a remarkable company through his leadership and a vision. Chris drives his company through virtue, and he shares how community bank leaders can build culture by acting on…

In this episode, Caleb Stevens sits down with author and speaker Jon Acuff to talk about where procrastination shows up most often in the business world—and why even high-performing leaders struggle with it. Jon shares practical strategies from his latest book, Procrastination Proof, to help you stop putting off important work and start making meaningful…

Today we have the privilege of welcoming back our very first podcast guest, Billy Boughey.  Billy is the founder of Elevate Experiences, a company that creates unforgettable corporate events and experiences. Billy talks about the 3 keys to a remarkable event, casting vision for your company, and the importance of courage and taking ownership. Coach…

Today we sit down with Dan Odom, President and CEO of Western Bank out in Lubbock, Texas. He discusses the history of his family-owned community bank and how he has developed it over the last decade. He tells us about his community profile, his thoughts on talent development, and the challenges and opportunities he faces…

Today we kick off 2026 by bringing back our friend Jeff Hancher to discuss the 3 types of feedback great leaders give to their teams.    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. SouthState…

Today we sit down with Tim Elmore, founder of Growing Leaders, an Atlanta‐based non‐profit organization created to develop emerging leaders. Gen Z has joined the workforce, and effective leadership is looking different as a result. Tim Elmore tells us how to bridge the generational gap to better lead a generation unlike any we’ve seen before. Download…

Today we feature another backstage conversation from the 2025 Elevate Banking Forum with David Salyers, retired Chick-fil-A executive and SouthState board member. We talk about his journey to Chick-fil-A and the principles that give the company a competitive edge.   The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants…

In this episode, Caleb sits down with J.R. Lay—entrepreneur, bestselling author, and founder of Level Up Business—to explore how community banks can deepen relationships and drive growth through authentic communication. They discuss the power of personal branding, the role of video and content in building trust, and why helping first is the key to long-term…