What Makes an Audit Committee Effective in Community Banks?

Striving to Help Community Banks Thrive with Kevin Shivers | S.R. Snodgrass Podcast Episode 25

In this episode of the S.R. Snodgrass Podcast, Lenore Seifer is joined by Kevin Shivers, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Association of Community Bankers, for a conversation about the evolving financial landscape and the critical role community banks continue to play in supporting local economies. Kevin shares his personal journey into the banking world, beginning with childhood memories of helping his mother review loan applications at the kitchen table, and explains how those experiences shaped his passion for entrepreneurship, advocacy, and community development. The conversation explores the mission of community banks, the challenges they face today, and the growing policy debates surrounding stablecoins, cryptocurrency, fraud prevention, and financial regulation. Kevin also discusses why new bank formation is slowing, what that means for local communities, and how organizations like PACB are working to create a stronger future for community banking. In This Episode, You’ll Learn About: * Why community banks remain essential to local economies * How community banks support small businesses and agriculture * The growing impact of cryptocurrency and stablecoins * Why fraud prevention and payment systems are evolving rapidly * The importance of policy, advocacy, and regulatory guardrails * Challenges surrounding new bank formation and industry consolidation * How community banks are preparing for the future As financial technology and regulation continue to evolve, Kevin emphasizes the importance of ensuring community banks can continue serving as trusted, local economic engines for generations to come. 🎧 Listen now to hear why community banking still matters—and what’s ahead for the industry.

Navigating AI in Business – Everything You Need to Know | S.R. Snodgrass Podcast Episode 24

In this episode of the S.R. Snodgrass Podcast, Chris Kreutzer joins Lenore Seifer to break down the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence in businesses. From generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to agentic AI that automates workflows, Chris explains the key differences between these technologies and provides advice for businesses considering their implementation. Key topics discussed include: * The pros and cons of Generative vs. Agentic AI * How AI is changing jobs and business operations * The critical need for AI policies and clear guidelines * Security risks and the growing threat of AI-enabled phishing and social engineering * Vendor management considerations for companies using AI tools This episode provides a comprehensive overview of AI's current and future impact on businesses—plus actionable insights on how to protect your organization while harnessing AI's full potential.

80 Years of Snodgrass | S.R. Snodgrass Podcast Episode 23

Episode 23: 80 Years of Snodgrass In this milestone episode of the S.R. Snodgrass Podcast, host Lenore Seifer, Director of Human Resources, sits down with Charles E. Marston, President and Tax Principal, to celebrate 80 years of S.R. Snodgrass. Charles reflects on his nearly 30-year journey with the firm and shares lessons learned from helping lead an organization through decades of growth, change, and industry evolution. From remaining proudly independent to investing early in technology and talent, this conversation highlights the values and decisions that have shaped Snodgrass—and continue to guide its future. In this episode, you’ll hear about:  • What it takes to build a firm that lasts across generations  • The importance of taking care of employees and clients  • Staying true to core values while adapting to change  • Remaining independent in a shifting accounting landscape  • Preparing for the future, including technology and AI  • Why relationships are the foundation of long-term success As Snodgrass marks 80 years, this episode offers a thoughtful look back—and an optimistic look ahead. 🎧 Subscribe to the S.R. Snodgrass Podcast and follow us on LinkedIn for more conversations with firm leadership and subject matter experts.

Personal Income Tax Strategies After the "Big Beautiful Bill” | S.R. Snodgrass Podcast Episode 22

The newly passed “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OB3 Bill) introduces major updates to personal income tax rules impacting deductions, charitable giving, year-end planning, and documentation requirements for individuals. In this episode, host Lenore Seifer is joined by Bill Hall, Senior Tax Manager at S.R. Snodgrass, to break down what taxpayers need to know heading into the 2025 tax season. Bill walks through what has changed, what remains uncertain pending IRS guidance, and how individuals can start preparing now. In This Episode: * What makes the OB3 Bill unprecedented * Expanded SALT deduction limits and who benefits * New rules for charitable giving (cash, non-cash, stock, and QCDs) * Standard deduction increases—especially for those age 65+ * Documentation requirements taxpayers must follow * What’s changing in 2026 and why planning now matters * Why IRS guidance delays may affect filing timelines * Practical steps individuals can take before year-end Whether you're preparing your own return or advising others, this episode provides clear, practical insights into some of the biggest tax changes coming in years.

What Makes an Audit Committee Effective in Community Banks?

Episode 21: Strengthening Audit Committee Effectiveness in Community Banks In this episode, Lenore Seifer, Director of Human Resources, welcomes back Brendan Whalen, Audit and Assurance Principal, to explore the vital role of audit committees in promoting effective governance and risk management within community banks. Brendan breaks down what makes an audit committee truly effective from its structure and member composition to its oversight responsibilities and culture of accountability. The discussion highlights how continuous education, proactive communication, and diverse experience can elevate audit performance and resilience. Key Discussion Points: * What defines audit committee effectiveness in community banks * Optimal size, structure, and member composition * The importance of professional skepticism and independence * How to balance financial oversight with emerging risks like cybersecurity and AI * Building culture through transparency and tone at the top * Conducting annual effectiveness evaluations and charter reviews * How audit committee roles are evolving amid regulatory change Guest: Brendan Whalen, Principal, Audit & Assurance Host: Lenore Seifer, Director of Human Resources Connect with us: 🌐 www.srsnodgrass.com [https://www.srsnodgrass.com/] 🔗 LinkedIn | S.R. Snodgrass [https://www.linkedin.com/company/srsnodgrass]