Podcast Topics
Strategy
What Banks Can Learn from Trader Joes with DJ Seeterlin
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…
How to Shift from a “Debt Mindset” to “Equity Mindset” with Samer Saab
In this episode, Chris Nichols is joined by Samer Saab of Alloy Labs to explore the growing tension between a traditional “debt mindset” and a more forward-looking “equity mindset” in banking. While banks are built to minimize risk and protect principal, that same instinct can limit innovation, partnerships, and long-term growth. Samer shares practical ways…
Rethinking Banking Strategy in an Era of AI and Tokenization with Lee Wetherington
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…
What a Formula 1 Pit Crew Can Teach Banking
Today on the show Caleb and Chris talk about one of Chris’ recent blog articles, What a F1 Pit Crew Can Teach Banking — Performance as a System. Read the full blog article here: https://southstatecorrespondent.com/banker-to-banker/bank-performance/what-a-f1-pit-crew-can-teach-banking-performance-as-a-system/ The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent…
Ron Shevlin on Why Community Banks are Getting Squeezed Out of Existence … and What to Do About It
Today we sit down with Ron Shevlin of Cornerstone Advisors. He tells us all about the forces that are “squeezing” community banks out of existence. Ron also shares what to focus on so your bank can thrive and succeed in the longterm. Check out our Ebook on loan hedging here! The views, information, or…
Unlocking Customer Profitability with Mac Thompson
Today we’re joined by Mac Thompson, founder and CEO of White Clay, a company helping banks use data to drive smarter, more profitable decisions. We talk about whether banking is getting easier or harder, what the data says about the current state of the industry, and how banks can sell more profitable products to more…
The Top 12 Winning Strategies for Community Banks in 2025 with Chris Nichols and Ed Kofman
Today we sit down with Chris Nichols and Ed Kofman. They discuss our e-book, “The Top 12 Winning Strategies for Community Banks in 2025,” going into detail on the principles to succeed this year. GET OUR NEW EBOOK: TOP 12 WINNING STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY BANKS IN 2025 The views, information, or opinions expressed during…
The Art of Bank Branching with Steve Smith from Accenture
In our final episode of 2024, Chris Nichols sits down with Steve Smith from Accenture to discuss the future of bank branching. GET OUR NEW EBOOK: TOP 12 WINNING STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY BANKS IN 2025 The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily…
Strategies for Managing Vendor Relationships with Davis Stewart and Gene Kirby
Today we sit down with Davis Stewart and Gene Kirby from Heitmeyer Consulting to discuss the best strategies for effectively managing vendor relationships at your bank. GET OUR NEW EBOOK: TOP 12 WINNING STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY BANKS IN 2025 The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved…
Ron Shevlin on Why Community Banks are Getting Squeezed Out of Existence … and What to Do About It
Today we sit down with Ron Shevlin of Cornerstone Advisors. He tells us all about the forces that are “squeezing” community banks out of existence. Ron also shares what to focus on so your bank can thrive and succeed in the longterm. Check out our Ebook on loan hedging here! The views, information, or…
Succession Planning & Attracting Young Talent to Your Bank with Brian Love and Keith Daly
Today we sit down with Brian Love and Keith Daly from the Travillian Group. We discuss the keys to succession planning and the importance of attracting and developing young talent at your bank. GET OUR NEW EBOOK: TOP 12 WINNING STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY BANKS IN 2025 The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show…
Key Lessons From Bank Failures With John Maxfield
Today Chris Nichols, Director of Capital Markets at SouthState, sits down with investor, writer, and artist, John Maxfield. They discuss key lessons from bank failures over the years and what the best banks need to be doing to stay relevant in the future. Check Out John’s Writing Here: https://www.maxfieldonbanks.com/ Register for the Elevate Banking Forum: https://southstatecorrespondent.com/the-elevate-banking-forum/