22 Minutes in Lending: Conversations about Credit Unions, Fintech, and Future of Finance

While lawmakers debate a proposed 10% credit card interest rate cap, credit unions are asking what this could mean for access to credit, profitability and member relationships. In this episode, credit card expert David Shipper of Datos Insights takes a deep dive into the potential impact of legislative rate caps, what could happen to credit card programs, and what credit union leaders should be doing now. Key Takeaways 02:11: David explains that the bill is extremely blunt: a flat 10% APR cap on all credit card interest, with no distinctions for cash advances, default rates, or risk tiers. 04:50: David outlines how a cap would reduce approvals, shrink credit lines, and push consumers toward worse alternatives like payday loans or BNPL. 09:38: David agrees that credit union leaders are right to be concerned: many programs could become unprofitable, leading to fewer approvals and higher fees. 11:46: Despite the risks, David argues credit unions could gain market share because their rates already average around 12–13%. 16:21: David warns that state-by-state caps would create a patchwork of rules, disadvantaging local credit unions while national banks export higher rates. 20:31: David outlines practical steps that credit unions can do now: speed up digital applications, enable instant approvals, offer digital card issuance, and reevaluate fees to ensure sustainability. Resources Mentioned: https://datos-insights.com/ https://www.americascreditunions.org/

While many credit unions look to expand their field of membership or enter new markets, Merck Employees' FCU is bucking the trend—and reaping the rewards. In this episode the $1.8 billion credit union's president and CEO, Paul Gentile, discusses the unique relationship the credit union maintains with one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies, and how doubling-down on Merck employees continues to deliver long-term growth. Key Takeaways 00.48: Paul's career journey from publisher of the Credit Union Times, to leading a League, and finally running a credit union. 03.06: Why fraud is the number one issue facing credit unions in 2026. 06.29: How Merck has maintained strong relationships with its SEG and continues to grow and thrive within its closed field of membership. 10.00: Ways Paul and the Merck leadership team have positioned student lending as a market differentiator. 14.21: An overview of Merck's growth strategy, and how it's maintaining relevance with a SEG membership. 20.21: Paul shares his vision for credit unions in the next decade, particularly as it relates to Stablecoin and broader crypto technology. Resources Mentioned: www.merckcu.com www.cutimes.com

In the second part of our conversation with Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) president and CEO, Tony Hernandez, we explore what the future holds for credit unions in an ecosystem dominated by crypto, governed by unpredictable legislators, and disrupted by increasingly savvy innovators. Highlights: ‎00.30: Tony discusses the Genius Act, Stablecoin, and his concerns that modern financial innovations could simply bypass the credit union system. 03.36: The liquidity risks presented by the $84T generational wealth transfer if it happens within crypto or more modernized financial systems that credit unions haven't yet adopted. 05.33: Lessons learned from the latest (and longest) government shutdown, and how credit unions and any federally-employed members should prepare for the next one. 13.19: How DCUC is working to support smaller credit unions and ensure their survival, growth, and integration into the legislative conversation. 15.04: What the future holds for the credit union system and where DCUC can play a role in shaping it. Links: https://www.dcuc.org/

Two years ago, CUNA and NAFCU—the credit union system's two primary trade associations—merged to form America's Credit Unions. But was that the right move? In this episode, the Defense Credit Union Council's (DCUC) president and CEO, Tony Hernandez, explains why he's expanding the organization's reach and remit to provide credit unions with more support, different services, and a second voice on Capitol Hill. Highlights: 01.00: Tony Hernandez discusses his distinguished Air Force career and how it led him to the Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) ... and an awkward conversation with his wife. 07.35: An overview of how DCUC has expanded its remit to be a broader, more representative voice for the credit union system as a whole. 15.33: The argument for having greater representation, and how the banking industry has proved that it works. 18.43: How DCUC collaborates with America's Credit Unions on certain advocacy efforts, but how and why it's important it remains its own authority, too. 20.00: Why DCUC has offered to foot the bill for a CFPB Credit Union Advisory Council. Links: https://www.dcuc.org/

A little over a month into his tenure as President and CEO, NACUSO's Randy Salser joins us to discuss his vision for the Credit Union Service Organization trade association. For Salser, it's a case of getting back to basics, doubling-down on where NACUSO can add the greatest value, and maximizing impact through its channels and events. Key takeaways: 03.30: Randy's vision for NACUSO to be at the center of an ecosystem where fintech, CUSOs, and credit unions can strategize together, learn from, and share with each other. 05.45: The relationship, differences, and nuances between CUSOs and non-CUSO fintech—and how they're both designed to support the credit union system. 08.17: NACUSO should focus on "surgical" advocacy and, while lending its name and weight to larger national calls, prioritize its core value proposition. 13.10: Randy's plans for the first three months of leading the organization. 17.40: How NACUSO's Reimagine event is a prime opportunity for credit unions and CUSOs alike to rediscover the value the organization offers to the system, microscopically and macroscopically. 20.53: Busting the big myths that prevent more exposure of and engagement with CUSOs. Resources discussed: https://nacuso.com/ https://www.reimaginenacuso.com/

While many credit unions grapple with low liquidity and a high cost of borrowing, Iowa-based Veridian seems to be bucking the trend. In this episode, the credit union's CLO, Kara Van Wert, discusses how her team is winning with younger members, using fintech to drive growth, and embracing AI to improve underwriting and streamline borrowing ... and the results are there for all to see. Key Takeaways: Resources Mentioned: Veridian Credit Union: www.veridiancu.org LendKey: www.LendKey.com Zest AI: www.zest.ai Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

Mick Olson, President and CEO of TopLine Financial Credit Union, joins 22 Minutes in Lending host Vince Passione to talk growth, strategy, and the overlooked opportunity of education lending. With $1.1B in assets and 70,000+ members, TopLine has proven education loans can be profitable, member-friendly, and a pipeline for lifelong relationships. So why do so many credit unions still sit on the sidelines? Mick breaks down the misconceptions, the risk-sharing model that works, and how TopLine turned hesitation into a growth driver. Key Takeaways: Resources Mentioned: TopLine Financial Credit Union: https://www.toplinecu.com/ Member Student Lending: https://www.memberstudentlending.com/ LendKey: https://www.lendkey.com/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

From Wall Street to fintech, James Chemplavil has seen both sides of lending. After 16 years underwriting corporate debt at Barings, he launched Salus to tackle a problem too many hardworking people face: being denied small but critical loans. Now as co-founder and CEO, James is helping credit unions use alternative data and automation to extend microloans, attract younger members, and cut charge-offs. In this episode of 22 Minutes in Lending, James joins host Vince Passione to share the Salus origin story, why credit unions are the ideal partners, and how technology is rewriting the future of microfinance. Key Takeaways 0:44 – James shares the personal story that pushed him from underwriting billion-dollar debt at Barings to building Salus, designed to fix access to small but critical loans. 02:52 – How collaboration, community focus, and tech gaps made credit unions the perfect proving ground for Salus. 04:21 – James explains why “cash in vs. cash out” is the new king metric, and how traditional scores miss millions of good borrowers. 06:10 – How Salus cuts staff time out of microloan processing, making $500 loans make sense for credit unions. 08:25 – The ideal credit union for microloans? Those wanting to pull in Gen Z and those doubling down on community impact. 09:34 – Predictive analytics that surface member stress before they default give credit unions a shot to be proactive, not reactive. 13:41 – A peek at how transaction data separates two “identical” 620-score borrowers into wildly different risk profiles. 15:31 – How Salus slashes charge-offs from 27% to as low as 3%, giving credit unions control over their risk vs. reach. 17:52 – James explains why the play isn’t P&L—it’s the lifetime value of turning Gen Z and millennials into members for life. 19:59 – Why earned wage access is the front door to member acquisition, deposits, relationships, and sticky growth. 21:50 – Salus’ roadmap: helping members graduate from microloans to auto and mortgage loans. Resources Mentioned: Salus: https://www.salusfintech.com/ LendKey: https://www.lendkey.com/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending #Microloans #LendingInnovation

From banking to startups to serving in Iraq, John Ballantyne has worn many hats. Now as CEO of Tru Treasury, he’s helping more than 70 credit unions build treasury management programs that keep them competitive in a growing commercial lending market. In this episode of 22 Minutes in Lending, John joins host Vince Passione to share the origin story of Tru Treasury, how it’s filling a critical gap for credit unions, and where treasury management is headed in the future. Key Takeaways 01:35 – John shares the unique story of launching Tru Treasury in March 2020, just as COVID shuttered the world overnight. 04:21 – The advantages of structuring True Treasury as a CUSO, and how collaboration with credit union CEOs shaped the model. 05:26 – Today, TruTreasury serves over 70 credit unions in different ways, from consulting to acting as a full outsourced treasury management department. 06:56 – Go behind the scenes and hear how Tru Treasury’s three platforms serve credit unions. 09:35 – How Tru Treasury steps in during acquisitions to bridge gaps in complex treasury relationships. 11:06 – What credit unions need to know about field of membership rules, the 12% cap, and opportunities for commercial lending and deposits. 13:11 – Commercial lending trends: growth in C&I and SBA lending, deposit growth, and how commercial deposits can be used to fund commercial loans. 15:34 – Untapped opportunities in municipal deposits, and why they’re a natural fit for some credit unions. 17:04 –Stablecoin, blockchain, and security innovations shaping the future of payments. 21:21 – Looking to 2030: John envisions a modular “commercial banking as a service” model that brings together lending, compliance, and treasury management for credit unions and beyond Resources Mentioned: Tru Treasury: https://trutreasury.com/ Leverage: https://myleverage.com LendKey: https://www.lendkey.com/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

We’re back with Part 2 of our conversation with Becky Reed, COO at BankSocial. In this episode, Becky maps out the future of lending—from smart contracts and stablecoin-powered car loans to how DAOs could change underwriting and credit union governance. She also shares how boards can (and should) engage with these technologies, why waiting isn’t a strategy, and what the credit union system might look like in 2030. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Becky walks through a real-world example of how lending could work end-to-end using blockchain, smart contracts, and stablecoin—starting with a member buying a car. 05:16 "Replacing trust with truth": Becky explains how blockchain transparency removes intermediaries and why BankSocial is non-custodial by design. 08:53 What if credit unions became DAOs? Becky describes how token-based governance could reshape underwriting, credit committees, and data sharing. 12:10 Talking tech with your board doesn’t mean teaching blockchain. Becky shares how to frame stablecoin as a payment rail they already understand. 15:27 Planning season? Becky offers advice on how credit unions can realistically begin exploring crypto, stablecoin, and digital rails, with emphasis on education and execution. 18:12 Why “waiting to see what happens” is risky. Becky explains the danger of sitting back while others define the future. 19:50 Becky’s vision for 2030: a grassroots financial renaissance, where DAOs and digital-native credit unions serve tight-knit communities. 20:55 The best podcast question she’s ever been asked? Listen to hear what it is. Resources Mentioned: BankSocial: https://web.banksocial.io/ LendKey: https://www.lendkey.com/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

Becky Reed, COO at BankSocial, joins 22 Minutes in Lending to talk about her long-standing involvement with CUSOs, why cooperation is credit unions’ superpower, and how blockchain, DAOs, and stablecoin are shaping the future of financial services. From her roots leading credit unions and chair emeritus for the NACUSO board, to leading fintech innovation today, Becky unpacks big ideas with clarity and conviction. This is just the first half of a two-part conversation. Don’t miss the next episode, where Becky dives into how these technologies are reshaping lending. Key Takeaways: 00:46 Becky shares why she believes cooperation is the credit union industry’s superpower, and how the CUSO model reflects that. 02:39 Is the number of CUSOs growing too fast or not fast enough? Becky explains why more CUSOs (and more differentiation and specialization) is actually a sign of industry health. 04:47 Are legacy CUSOs at a disadvantage? Becky says no, and explains how traditional and contemporary models are playing different but valuable roles. 08:10 Becky defines what a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) is and how BankSocial started as one. 11:06 Why DAOs matter for the future of credit unions: Becky breaks down how digital governance models can boost transparency, inclusion, and member involvement. 13:13 Becky dissects the jargon, explaining key terms like blockchain, Bitcoin, and stablecoin. 16:32 Payments are at the core of financial institutions. Becky explains why stablecoin could become the most efficient payment rail yet and what that means for the future of credit unions. Resources Mentioned: BankSocial: https://web.banksocial.io/ LendKey: https://www.lendkey.com/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

How do you modernize a 100-year-old credit union without losing sight of your mission? John Anderson, Chief Lending Officer at Atlanta Postal Credit Union, joins us to share how APCU is navigating dual branding, fintech partnerships, liquidity pressures, and AI adoption—all while staying grounded in its mission to serve both legacy postal-service members and the broader community. Key Highlights 01:00 – Overview of Atlanta Postal and its community-focused sub-brand, Center Parc. 02:38 –Why and how APCU pivoted to a dual branded approach, and what’s to come in its 100th year. 04:11 – Difference between members from the community vs. postal-service members. 06:06 – How APCU navigated the liquidity crunch: shifting from CDs to alternative savings products. 07:13 – Strategic planning: why APCU avoids “scenario overload” and focuses on actionable risks like USPS changes and GSA lease cuts. 08:43 – The biggest lending challenges APCU is tackling in 2026 planning. 09:38 – Is fintech-powered lending just indirect by another name? John shares how it’s different. 10:32 – Digitizing the onboarding process + human follow-up: APCU’s hybrid approach to memberization. 12:10 – Servicing plays a key role in building loyalty with members. APCU sees the value in keeping it internal. 12:54 – Auto refi isn’t on your members’ radar—but the offers are. A discussion about meeting members where the decision happens and partnering with fintechs that support recapture. 15:55 – How APCU is putting AI into action. 19:03 – AI as a force multiplier, not a threat: how APCU is freeing up staff for high-value work. 20:10 –John shares his mindset shift coming from banking, and what credit unions taught him about serving more than just the safest borrower. 21:27 – Advice for up-and-coming Chief Lending Officers. Resources Mentioned: Atlanta Postal Credit Union: https://www.apcu.com/ LendKey: https://www.lendkey.com/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

From rebranding to AI-assisted underwriting and member experience, Central One is redefining what it means to be a “wicked local” credit union. In this episode, Devon Lyon, President and CEO, shares how the Massachusetts-based credit union approaches lending and how they’re embracing data-driven accountability. Key takeaways: 00:37 – Central One’s rebrand, revamped website, and renewed mission while navigating a highly competitive Massachusetts market. 02:27 – How a new AI-assisted underwriting system will helping thin- and no-credit borrowers access credit-building products. 05:03 – How education lending works as a gateway to lifelong member relationships. 07:30 – Why more credit unions don’t offer private education loans, and how advocacy for regulation changes could help make the juice worth the squeeze. 09:05 – Devon makes the case for direct lending. 11:14 – How variable-rate mortgages work for Central One’s balance sheet. 12:46 – Beyond good times, how the member solutions team supports members before they enter a financial crisis. 14:20 – Managing deposit gathering and funding strategy through volatility—lessons learned from 2021’s rate environment. 16:15 – “Data isn’t about dashboards—it’s about accountability.” Devon shares his journey to data-driven strategy and how Central One is embedding insights across every department. 19:25 – First stop for AI? Underwriting. Devon explains how AI can lead to immediate member impact. 20:26 – What’s ahead in 2026? Data visualization. Resources Mentioned: Central One Federal Credit Union: https://www.centralfcu.com/ LendKey: https://www.lendkey.com/ CU Broadcast: https://www.cubroadcast.com/ CULytics: https://culytics.com/ Thrive: https://www.anneleggthrive.com/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

If your member experience is broken, you’re already losing. As fintechs outpace traditional lenders, CEO Omar Jordan of Coviance believes credit unions have a choice: retreat or run toward the fire. In this episode, he shares how Coviance is helping credit unions shift their mindset, embrace their role in the financial intelligence business, and deliver experiences members can’t help but talk about. It's a call to lead with strategy, and to evolve before irrelevance sets in. Key takeaways: 00:38 – Omar Jordan shares the origin story of Coviance, starting with the run he took towards the fire during Great Recession. 02:30 – Growth isn’t just about rates or products—it’s about the experience. Omar explains why delivering a fintech-like journey fuels organic growth: today’s members talk. 03:49 – A blunt truth: If your member experience is broken, you're irrelevant. Operational efficiencies aren’t optional anymore, they’re required if you want to stay relevant. 05:42 – Don’t tell credit unions what to do—ask them what they want to accomplish. Plus, how Coviance measures success. (It’s more than just speed.) 08:06 – Are they a fintech? A tech firm? Tech-enabled services provider? Omar breaks down where Coviance fits and how their approach sets them apart. 09:18 – With home equity demand rising, fintechs are winning on flexibility and UX. Omar challenges credit unions to shift their mindset from being in the business of managing risk to being in the financial intelligence business. 12:26 – Stablecoin isn’t just a buzzword—Omar explains its potential to reshape how funds are disbursed quickly and securely. 13:52 – From debit cards for HELOCs to new payment options, Omar spotlights some promising innovation in the HELOC space. 16:23 – Everyone’s talking about AI, but few are using it as a strategic multiplier. Omar shares how AI should be used for decision making, not just automation. 18:34 – What’s next for Coviance? More innovation, deeper service, and keeping credit unions competitive in a crowded lending space. 20:03 – The most underestimated trend right now? The sheer volume of fintech lending happening outside traditional institutions—and what it means for credit unions’ relevance. Resources Mentioned: Coviance: https://www.coviance.com/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

Rob Keatts, EVP and Chief Strategy Officer at Chartway Federal Credit Union, joins us to talk about the bold moves Chartway is making—from investing $25 million in branch infrastructure to earning the Juntos Avanzamos designation to better serve Hispanic communities. With a strategy shaped by both data and values, Rob explains how Chartway is using technology, partnerships, and community insight to stay mission-driven and member-focused. Key takeaways: 01:01 – How Chartway approaches its supportive role of smaller credit unions in a unique way, including M&A and fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing—especially when small shops have big ideas worth spreading. 02:37 – Why Chartway is investing $25 million in branch infrastructure, and how branches are evolving as centers for education, advice, and connection. 05:42 – The strategic role of branches in Chartway’s deposit efforts and why physical presence still matters in a digital world. 06:58 – Chartway’s intentional focus on serving Hispanic members and how data led them to partner with Coopera and Inclusiv. 10:01 – What it took to earn the Juntos Avanzamos designation: from bilingual staff to cultural fluency, and how Chartway measures success. 13:22 – Launching business banking in 2024 to meet growing demand—especially from Hispanic entrepreneurs—and how a digital platform is part of the plan. 15:08 – Rob’s tech-to-strategy journey, and why Chartway is betting on fintech partnerships to close the innovation gap with big banks. 18:31 – Rethinking credit decisioning with AI: Chartway’s new model aims to say “yes” more often, while guarding against bias. 20:19 – Navigating delinquency trends: Rob shares the latest data and where things are starting to stabilize. 21:41 – Why now is the moment for credit unions to double down on their mission—and how Chartway is staying anchored to its purpose. Resources Mentioned: Chartway Credit Union: https://www.chartway.com/ Coopera Consulting: https://www.cooperaconsulting.com/ Inclusiv: https://inclusiv.org/ Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

Whether it’s cybersecurity, liquidity, or finding the right fintech fit, credit unions are navigating a complex landscape with limited resources. Steve Willis explains how LEVERAGE connects nearly 900 credit unions with tailored solutions that don’t just plug holes—they drive meaningful, measurable progress. Key takeaways: 00:49: Steve explains the role LEVERAGE plays within the credit union system and how it supports growth, innovation, and even advocacy. 03:00: How LEVERAGE identifies the right partners by tuning into credit union pain points and staying close to fintech and financial industry trends. 04:57: The kind of support credit unions need in times of uncertainty—and how LEVERAGE helps deliver it. 06:12: Finding the sweet spot between digital-forward innovation and the relationship-driven values credit unions are built on. 07:50: Helping credit unions navigate a crowded marketplace of fintechs, vendors, and service providers to find what truly moves the needle. 11:57: Why size doesn’t limit opportunity—and how smaller credit unions are getting tailored, hands-on support. 13:07: The growing responsibility of boards to stay engaged in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape. 14:29: Cybersecurity hasn’t fallen off their radar; credit unions just need guidance on effective yet affordable ways to protect themselves. 17:46: Exploring liquidity challenges and the solutions LEVERAGE is surfacing to help credit unions adapt. 19:03: How LEVERAGE is rolling up its sleeves for small credit unions—offering the right mix of modern tools and practical, proven approaches. Resources Mentioned: https://myleverage.com/ - LEVERAGE Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending

In part two of our conversation with Samantha Beeler, president of the League of Credit Unions and Affiliates, we debate taxation and advocacy efforts, discuss the complexities of finding, sourcing and integrating fintech, and unearth a bold vision for the credit union movement’s near and longterm future. Highlights: 00.30: The unspoken truth about credit union taxation: That some credit union CEOs would be willing to trade the tax exemption for access to capital markets and simplified M&A regulations. 03.57: Alternative tax options and opinions. 07.12: How smaller credit unions need greater focus, support, and investment, as they serve their members and communities in unique ways. 09.22: Questioning the myth that scale solves all problems, particularly relating to fintech. 14.10: Hopes and thoughts on what the future for America’s Credit Unions could look like following Jim Nussle’s retirement announcement. 17.57: Beeler’s vision for the future of the credit union system. Resources: www.the-league.coop Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Advocacy #DontTaxMyCreditUnion

Samantha Beeler, President of the League of Credit Unions and Affiliates, joins 22 Minutes in Lending for an unfiltered conversation about the pressures and possibilities facing credit unions today. From board governance to regulatory uncertainty, Samantha shares how credit unions can respond with clarity, collaboration, and confidence—and why “doing business as usual” might just be the greatest form of advocacy. Highlights: 01:39: What drove the integration of Virginia into the League, the benefits and risks of multi-state leagues, and the economies of scale it offers for not only the league, but the credit unions it serves. 05:09: Discussions around board strength, and director’s understanding as a concern, noting that many directors feel overwhelmed re. cybersecurity, AI, and broader tech trends. 09:02: Recapping the recent NCUA upheaval and what credit unions should expect next in the regulatory environment. 11:54: Whether it makes sense to simplify the regulatory framework and have a single regulator for all financial institutions, citing examples from other countries. 18:49: Advice on how credit unions can navigate the current regulatory environment of rapid change and uncertainty. Resources: www.the-league.coop Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Advocacy #DontTaxMyCreditUnion

Millions of consumers are overpaying on their auto loans, yet few know refinancing is an option. In this episode, Nicholas Goraczkowski, president of iLending, lays out the opportunity for credit unions to boost loan portfolios, improve member financial health, and capture market share in a booming auto refinance space. Key takeaways: 00.58: Nick explains the primary reasons consumers don't refinance auto loans—lack of awareness and fear based on negative mortgage refinance experiences. 02.52: Insights on the $1.7 trillion auto loan market, and how borrowers seek refinance not just for interest savings, but primarily for payment flexibility. 05.13: Why refinanced auto loans typically outperform indirect auto loans. 06.25: Definition of "back-end" products (loan protection) and how shifting loan-to-value ratios impact approvals and risk management. 09.24: Impact of Federal Reserve interest rate policies on refinance demand, and an overview of the strategic adjustments lenders are making for 2025. 12.13: How credit unions can benefit from fintech partnerships to attract new member segments without cannibalizing existing business. 14.21: Why efficient, accurate retitling processes are crucial to refinancing success and how iLending approaches this. 17.22: Nick’s best practices on transparently selling optional loan protection products, ensuring full regulatory compliance. 21.35: Key factors shaping the auto refinance market, including vehicle values, leasing trends, and the competitive landscape. Resources Mentioned: www.ilendingcarloanrefinancing.com iLending Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #22MinutesInLending #AutoLoans

With relentless technological advances, generational shifts in employment trends, and upended perceptions of “community”, traditional deposit strategies may no longer work for credit unions. In this episode, we speak with Ron Shevlin of Cornerstone Advisors to explore how fintech has paved the way for credit union innovation. Key takeaways: 00.55: A decade-long annual study skewed overly positive when conducted in December 2024, but uncertainty about the regulatory environment would likely see credit union leaders respond much more cautiously now, just a few months later. 02.55: The biggest myth credit unions tell themselves is that people are their greatest assets–but credit unions live or die through their digital experiences. 03.59: How direct deposit relationships may not be the sticky experience credit unions have traditionally thought–and how fintech have turned that theory on its head through smart market segmentation. 07.02: Gen Z and Millennials are more savvy about investing than their older counterparts were at the same age, and fintech are capitalizing on that emerging market. 09.36: Community banking isn’t dead, but the “community” now means something else; it’s no longer geographically based. Credit unions need to become smarter about how they cater to those niche markets. 13.20: Credit unions have a head start on fintech to secure these markets, because they’re already a known entity with market traction. 14.10: How credit unions could learn from SoFi’s success and elevate their product strategy. 18.30: Digital experience is a credit union’s product. 19.44: Should credit unions be investing directly in fintech, and should their members be concerned if the investments don’t deliver profit? 22.12: Embedded finance isn’t just about fintech; large institutions like Walmart and Gerber have been using embedded finance to capture and retain market share for years. Resources Mentioned: www.robinhood.com Robin Hoodwww.chime.com Chimepanaceafinancial.com Panaceawww.hustlfinancial.comwww.sofi.com SoFiwww.curql.com Curqlwww.trustage.com/ventures TruStage Ventures Thanks for listening to the 22 Minutes in Lending podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review to help get the word out about the show and be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation. #CreditUnions #Fintech #Lending #GrowthStrategies