What Attracts the Next Generation to Banking?

What Attracts the Next Generation to Banking?

Tune into this episode of Local Cents as members of the Next Gen Council share their perspectives on banking products and what appeals most to their generation. CEO Shane Bauer leads the conversation with Brooke, Kennedy, and Hunter as they discuss financial products, preferences, and trends shaping the future of banking.

Pillar Bank Tiger Teams

This podcast is all about Tiger Teams! So, what are Tiger Teams? It’s a concept tied directly to our organization’s strategic plan. These teams “attack” challenges like a tiger, intentionally coming together to organize, rework, and rethink processes with efficiency and innovation in mind. The focus is on finding ways to strengthen how we operate, improve workflows, and continue growing as a business through collaboration and fresh ideas.

June Dairy Month

Listen to this podcast featuring VP/Commercial/Agricultural Loan Officer Mike DeLong as he talks about one of his favorite times of the year — June Dairy Month! Originally established in 1937 as National Milk Month, this long-standing tradition celebrates Wisconsin’s dairy industry and communities. Tune in to hear about the many dairy events happening throughout western Wisconsin and why this month means so much to the area.

Leadership Starts Here: Inside Leadership Chippewa Falls

What does it really mean to lead in your community? In this episode of Local Cents, we sit down with Angela Kapp, Programs and Partnerships Director at the Chippewa Falls Chamber of Commerce, along with Pillar Bank’s Lori (Leadership Chippewa Falls graduate) and Colin (current participant), to explore the impact of this long-standing leadership program. Since its start in 1999, Leadership Chippewa Falls has developed more than 460 leaders across industries—equipping them with a deeper understanding of local issues, challenges, and opportunities. Angela shares how the program has evolved, including new immersive experiences like community tours, while Lori and Colin offer firsthand perspectives on how the program shapes leaders both personally and professionally. If you care about your community—and want to play a bigger role in its future—this conversation is for you.

From Startup to Standout: A Young Entrepreneur's Growth Story

What does it take to turn an idea into a growing local business? In this episode of Local Cents, we sit down with young entrepreneur Custer’s Cones & Candy founder Hunter Custer and Pillar Bank’s Neil Mathwig to talk about what it really looks like to start—and scale—a business from the ground up. Hunter launched the business at just 18 years old. Now, six years later, he’s expanded to multiple locations, added concession operations at local games, and is preparing to open another location—this time with plans to purchase the building. From bootstrapping his first location to reinvesting profits for growth, Hunter shares the realities of entrepreneurship, the lessons learned along the way, and why having the right financial partner matters. As Hunter puts it: “Working with good people we can depend on is so important.” If you’ve ever thought about starting your own business—or taking it to the next level—this episode is packed with insight you won’t want to miss.