Mind Matters

The Journey of Carrie Forbes From Arts Degree to CEO

Welcome to another episode of Mind Matters! In today's show, our host Kendall Raessler sits down with the incredible Carrie Forbes, CEO of League Data Limited. Known affectionately as "Miss Technology" within the credit union world, Carrie shares her unique journey from an arts degree holder to a powerful leader in technology and finance.  Get ready to dive deep into Carrie's fascinating career path, her self-reflective leadership style, the importance of work-life balance, and the wisdom she's gained along the way. Tune in to learn how Carrie handles the fast-paced world of technology and maintains harmony within her organization.  Whether you're an aspiring leader or an established executive, this episode is packed with valuable insights that can help you navigate your professional journey. Welcome to Mind Matters with Carrie Forbes! Timestamps 00:00 An Unconventional career path leads to unexpected success. 04:02 Evolution from the public sector to adult education. 06:43 Self-reflection on purpose, growth, and alignment. 12:41 Leaders must model the behavior they expect. Staff follows. 15:41 Learning from advice, evolving, and finding new mentors. 18:55 Technology's fast pace challenges the human brain. 20:11 Value communication, focus on intent and connection. 23:41 Understanding the complexities of powerful CEOs. Connect with Carrie Forbes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caforbes/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/caforbes/]  Website:https://leaguedata.ca/home [https://leaguedata.ca/home]

Overcoming Obstacles: Chad Elledge's Journey to Executive Leadership

In this episode, host Kendall Raessler welcomes Chad Elledge, the Executive Vice President and Risk Officer for Texas Heritage National Bank. Chad takes us on a fascinating journey from his early days in East Texas to earning a computer programming degree from Texas A&M, and eventually transitioning into the banking sector in an unconventional path.  You'll hear about his career pivot from IT to risk management, the personal challenges he faced, and the invaluable lessons he learned along the way. Chad shares insights on the importance of staying informed, leveraging relationships, and fostering a collaborative workplace culture. Plus, he offers practical advice on balancing work and personal life, and how technology plays a critical role in modern banking.  Tune in to discover how persistence, adaptability, and a positive mindset can drive success in any career. Timestamps 00:00 Funny story of a career change from coding. 04:24 Employee promoted to CEO after requesting an interview. 07:36 Difficulty reading; learned to work harder. 10:14 Persistence and mentorship lead to personal success. 15:32 Stay up to date to think bigger. 19:52 Embracing teamwork, valuing diverse input, and empowerment. 21:32 The Institution's growth is driven by strong customer relationships. 25:52 Technology as an asset, risk analysis evolution in banking. Connect with Chad Elledge LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cellag93/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cellag93/] Website: https://www.thnb.bank/about/ [https://www.thnb.bank/about/]

The Radical Transparency Approach: Insights from Amplify's CEO Kendall Garrison

In this episode, we delve into Kendall's remarkable leadership journey, including his unexpected challenges when he took over as CEO just nine weeks before the pandemic hit. Kendall shares how his commitment to radical transparency and fee-free banking has revolutionized Amplify, improved employee engagement, and provided better financial solutions for its members.  We also explore his innovative approach to remote work and maintaining a strong company culture.  Tune in for invaluable insights on leadership, financial innovation, and navigating unprecedented times. Let's dive in! Timestamps 00:00 Praise for Kendall, overview of journey requested. 03:25 Unexpected challenges arose, requiring swift workplace adaptation. 08:04 Amplify embraces radical transparency in communication methods. 12:07 Revolutionizing banking with customer-friendly policies and no fees. 15:48 Dell, technology-oriented, remote-first credit union growth. 19:49 Embraced remote work, expanded to 22 states. 22:15 Downside of remote work and culture conversations. Connect with Kendall Garrison LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendallgarrison/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendallgarrison/] Website: https://www.goamplify.com [https://www.goamplify.com]

Overcoming Challenges: Steve Afdahl's Journey Transforming Greenbelt and Trust

In this episode, we're joined by a very special guest, Steve Afdahl, a CEO of Greenbelt and Trust with a remarkable journey. we'll explore Steve's unique approach to leadership, the challenges of transitioning from a larger network to a singular focus, and his dedication to promoting equality in the workplace.  Steve will also share valuable insights on the financial challenges faced by the bank, the importance of continuous learning, and how he managed to balance professional success with personal sacrifice. Plus, we'll delve into his thoughts on the evolving threats and opportunities in technology and AI. So, tune in as we uncover the story behind a dynamic leader who turned promises into lasting change.  Timestamps 00:00 Transitioned from economic development to CEO position. 05:40 Uncertain CEO offered chance to run large bank. 06:36 Appreciates call, pursuing other opportunities, meets Rocky. 12:04 The CEO personally meets with every employee. 13:45 Gender disparity in bank executive positions improved. 16:40 Fantastic message emphasizing teamwork and leadership lessons. 21:00 Thank you, It is important to understand, one step at a time. 24:52 Learning to trust and accept others' decisions. 29:43 World changing, leadership growth, valuable knowledge shared. Connect with Steve Afdahl LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-afdahl-4a4b57a4/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-afdahl-4a4b57a4/] Website: https://www.greenbeltbank.bank/ [https://www.greenbeltbank.bank/]

Nurturing a Close-Knit Company Culture with Christopher Weaver

In today’s conversation, Chris opens up about inheriting the bank at a young age and evolving his role from marketing director to president. He shares insights into the incredible growth of the bank, from $56 million to nearly $700 million in assets, all thanks to a supportive team and dedicated employees who Chris treats like family. We'll explore how Chris navigates the challenges of modern leadership, the importance of community-focused values, and how technology can either drive us apart or bring us closer together. Chris also reflects on the mentorship of his father and the influential CEO, Steve Aftol, shaping his honest and value-driven leadership style. Tune in as Kendall Raessler, our host, delves deeper into Chris’s unique leadership approach, the bank’s role in the agricultural community, and the evolving expectations of the younger workforce.  This episode is packed with lessons on personal growth, leadership, and the power of connecting through shared values. Timestamps 00:00 Father converted defunct bank; inherited at 13. 05:09 Father orchestrated CEO succession, shaping the bank's future. 06:24 The Bank owner inherited stock and faced challenges. 10:35 Honesty, challenges, upbringing, contribution, not focused on business. 14:19 Profitability is essential, but a strong culture. 17:28 Deeply involved in Iowa's ag community. Outreach-focused. 20:50 Bank's products evolve, focus on steady service. 24:11 Support and invest in small family businesses. 28:47 Technology should bring people together, and prioritize connections. 31:15 Addressing new employee expectations and promoting autonomy. Connect with Christopher Weaver LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherwweaver/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherwweaver/] Website: https://www.greenbeltbank.bank/ [https://www.greenbeltbank.bank/]