Counting Change

Community Banking Innovation: Balancing Tradition and Technology withCarie Kelly

In this episode of Counting Change, host Arjun Sahgal discusses Community Banking Innovation: Balancing Tradition and Technology with Carie Kelly, Senior Vice President of Digital Banking at Claremont Savings Bank. The episode explores how community banks are leveraging innovation to strengthen local communities while staying true to their roots. Carie shares insights on internal and external innovation, the importance of feedback, and how community banks can compete against larger institutions. Carie also discusses the role of AI in community banking, supporting employee experience, and strategies for balancing community-focused service with tech-driven innovation.  Counting Change is hosted and run by ⁠⁠Ascent Platform⁠⁠ [https://ascentplatform.io/].

Efficiency in Operations: Maximizing What You Have While Building for Tomorrow with Loren Swindell

In this episode of Counting Change, host Arjun Sahgal discusses the operational efficiency and enterprise transformation in banking with Loren Swindell, SVP Enterprise Operations Director at Needham Bank. The episode explores how banks can uncover hidden efficiency gains, evaluate existing systems, and create more streamlined, scalable operations across departments. Loren shares insights on assessing operational gaps when joining a new institution, aligning cross-functional teams to drive process improvement, and leveraging technology, including AI, to enhance internal workflows and frontline experiences. She also discusses the importance of enterprise-wide collaboration, board-level reporting on operational performance, and building a culture that continuously evaluates and optimizes processes. Counting Change is hosted and run by ⁠⁠Ascent Platform⁠⁠ [https://ascentplatform.io/].

Innovation and Trust: Navigating Tech in Credit Unions with Jamie Kruspel

In this episode of Counting Change, host Arjun Sahgal discusses the dynamic intersection of community finance and tech innovation with Jamie Kruspel, Chief Transformation Officer at Mainstreet Credit Union. The episode explores how credit unions can innovate with technology while maintaining trust and personal relationships. Jamie shares insights on AI, digital transformation, and fostering a culture of experimentation in the financial sector. Jamie also discusses practical examples of AI and automation improving efficiency and the importance of authentic relationships in financial services. Counting Change is hosted and run by ⁠⁠Ascent Platform⁠⁠ [https://ascentplatform.io/].

Digital Lending Transformation in Credit Unions with Mark Rodriguez

In this episode of Counting Change, host Arjun Sahgal discusses the digital lending transformation with Mark Rodriguez, CEO of Lending Studio and former SVP and Head of Lending at Partners Federal Credit Union. The episode explores how credit unions can effectively implement digital transformation, focusing on workflow optimization, change management, and leveraging AI to enhance member and employee experiences. Mark shares insights on building internal buy-in, managing change, and ensuring compliance in digital lending. Mark also discusses the importance of a member-centric, mobile-first approach and of overcoming member hesitancy to adopt digital channels. Counting Change is hosted and run by ⁠⁠Ascent Platform⁠⁠ [https://ascentplatform.io/].

The Currency of Trust: Why Community Banks Matter More Than Ever with Wade Peery

In this episode of Counting Change, host Arjun Sahgal discusses the importance of trust in community banking with Wade Peery, Senior Advisor and former Chief Innovation Officer at First Bank. The episode explores how community banks can maintain relevance amid technological advancements such as stablecoins and the evolving financial landscape. Wade shares insights on the challenges and opportunities for community banks, emphasizing the need for strategic partnerships and technology integration. He also discusses the critical role of trust and how it can be leveraged to compete with larger institutions. Counting Change is hosted and run by ⁠⁠Ascent Platform⁠⁠ [https://ascentplatform.io/].