Episodes

3d ago

What inspires a seasoned bank CEO to come out of retirement? As Jim Reuter, CEO and president of First Interstate Bank, tells Al and Steve on the show: “There’s a saying . …that musicians don’t retire until there’s no music left in them. There was still some music left in me.” They discuss his career, succession best practices and some of the biggest forces reshaping regional banking. Plus, they offer up their 2026 predictions. Subscribe to the Plugged In podcast here: https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/plugged-in Chapters: [00:00] Jim Rueter Returns to Plugged In [01:00] From FirstBank to First Interstate [02:10] Vinyl Vault & Music Themes [03:00] Why Jim Came Out of Retirement [05:00] Leadership Lessons & Succession [06:40] Growth Barriers & Competition [08:20] Brand Density and Digital Strategy [11:30] Deposit Displacement Reality Check [16:00] The Scale Debate in Banking [19:15] The ROI of Technology [23:50] 2026 Banking Predictions [26:40] Closing Thoughts & Wrap-Up

Dec 3

Regional banks don’t often get compared to pop music, but maybe they should. On the show today, First Financial Bank President and CEO Archie Brown explains why great banks survive turbulence by evolving with the times, just like great pop artists. He talks with Al and Steve about what credit risk actually looks like today and how midsize banks can hold their own against the industry’s giants. Plus, they explore the value of only focusing on what you can control. As Archie puts it: “There’s nothing else you can do.” Subscribe to the Plugged In podcast here: https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/plugged-in Chapters: [00:00] Intro – Welcoming Archie Brown [00:54] Optimism, Adversity & “Better Days” [02:00] Why High-Performing Banks Don’t Get Respect [04:45] Credit Risk: The Market Gets It Wrong [08:22] Competing With the Big Banks: Talent & Tech [11:29] Tech Investment & AI: Moving Faster Than Goliath [14:06] Knowing When to Double Down vs. Walk Away [17:17] Pop Music, Banking & Evolving Without Losing Identity [20:36] Leadership in a Digital-First World [23:42] Closing Thoughts & What’s Next

Oct 7

Today on the show, Al and Steve reunite in the Arizona desert to unpack the themes they have been hearing at banking conferences and boardroom meetings nationwide. Two big standouts: the practical use cases of A.I. (yes, there are some) and the surge in M&A activity. Plus, they dig into the generational shift in banking where younger consumers play the field in which financial providers they use. Chapters: [00:00] Back in the Desert — Kicking Off Plugged In [00:41] Coast to Coast: Travels and Boardroom Insights [03:09] The AI Hype Curve — Entering the Trough of Disillusionment [05:22] Real AI Wins: Chatbots, Fraud Detection & Efficiency Gains [07:24] The CFO Reality Check — Why AI Might Cost More [08:50] Finding Your Voice with ChatGPT [10:16] The Next Generation of Banking: Gen Z & Liquidity Shifts [12:54] Creating Capacity and Strengthening Franchise Value [14:08] The M&A Wave: Big Brands, Big Bets, and Faster Deals [18:15] Speed, Purpose, and the Future of Banking Subscribe to the Plugged In podcast here: https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/plugged-in

Aug 6

Deal-making is heating up. On the show today: Al and Steve sit down with Mike Maddox, CEO and president of the newly expanded $20B-asset Busey Bank, which merged with CrossFirst Bank earlier this year. They dig into scale, succession and strategy. They also discuss what stablecoins mean for banking, Busey’s $14B wealth management platform and why Mike thinks that regional banks should act more like professional services firms to serve their markets best. Chapters: [00:00] Welcome & Ozzy-Inspired Kickoff [00:41] Meet Mike Maddox: Regional Banking Veteran [01:12] The State of Bank M&A: Scale and Strategy [04:04] Solving for Succession: Leadership Transition [06:13] Market Expansion: From Midwest Roots to Sunbelt Growth [07:32] Preserving Regional Culture in a Growing Bank [10:58] The $14 Billion Wealth Platform Advantage [14:17] Banking Innovation: Tech, Payments & FirstTech [18:50] Looking Ahead: Post-Merger Integration & Opportunity [19:48] Wrap-Up: Culture, Metrics & Modern Banking Vision Subscribe to the Plugged In podcast here: https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/plugged-in

Jul 2

Banking is only getting hotter. On the show today, Al and Steve break down midyear trends, from GenAI's impact on creativity (it isn’t good) to stablecoins and a potential surprising M&A rebound. Plus, they explore one of the biggest industry questions right now: In a deregulatory environment, where can banks win and lose? TBD. But as Al says: “Fundamentals never go out of style.” Subscribe to the Plugged In podcast here: https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/plugged-in

May 21

Today on the show, Al and Steve catch up with Chip Reeves, CEO of MidWestOne Bank, to get the inside story into how the Midwestern bank managed to not lose a single top client when it overhauled its balance sheet in a short amount of time. Chip also shares how the institution recruits top talent and its approach to competing with the likes of Chase, the banking giant that’s been plopping down branches in MidWestOne's turf (otherwise known as the land of star basketball player, Caitlin Clark). And yes, there’s some singing by Al to an 80’s banger. 🎧📺 https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/plugged-in

May 9

On the show today: Al and Steve speak with Brad Elliott, founder, chairman and CEO of Equity Bank, about building a $5.5 billion institution through an aggressive M&A strategy. Brad shares how the bank attracts and develops talent as well as offers his take on GenAI and how to cultivate trust in digital and physical channels.

Mar 26

Generative A.I. is an intervention moment for the financial services industry. Today on the show, Al and Steve chat about A.I. playbooks and what banks are doing with GenAI right now (namely tepid things, like testing Microsoft Copilot with their employees). They present a bigger question: should banks pursue A.I. strategies right now? Al and Steve also explore the other timely hot word in financial services: uncertainty. What happens next with the economy remains to be seen, but Al and Steve offer up reasons why the C-suite ought to cultivate creativity whichever direction the market moves. Show notes Why most Companies Shouldn’t Have an AI Strategy (WSJ article; subscription required)

Feb 12

Malcolm Holland, Chariman of the Board, CEO and President of Veritex Community Bank, sees himself as a banker who embraces opportunities. On today's show, Al and Steve chat with Malcolm about how he started a bank as a 25-year-old in the 1980s – a turbulent period for banking – and how his experience of bad times helped shape his career in making big leaps; arguably, none bigger than founding his current bank at age 49 by using the inheritance money left to his wife... with her blessing. Malcolm chats with the guys about the importance of using data to make decisions, the art of nurturing or replacing talent and what's next for the bank. Malcolm also talks about the bank's women in small business initiative. As he says: "I love it."

Jan 21

They’re back. In Arizona. In advance of the upcoming Acquire or Be Acquired conference, Al and Steve chat about trends that will matter to the C-Suite this year, including: M&A activity coming in hot and how to source new ideas that will yield revenue. They also explore funding competition from fintech companies and essentials required in retaining customers.

Dec 20, 2024

In this final episode of the Plugged In Series for 2024, Steve and Al reflect on the year's significant events and trends in the banking industry, including a resurgence in mergers and acquisitions, the challenges posed by technology and compliance, and the importance of talent management. They discuss predictions for 2025, emphasizing the need for execution and growth strategies in a competitive landscape. Then, they kick it over to the replay of the highly-anticipated 2024 GonzoBanker Awards, where Al and co-host Ron Shevlin (What's Going On in Banking), along with special guests Steve, Sam Kilmer (Fintech Hustle) and Mary Wisniewski (Money Isn't Everything) break down just a few of the many winners of Cornerstone Advisors' annual industry awards.

Nov 27, 2024

Hans Morris is used to following fintech trends. He’s a managing partner at Nyca Partners, a fintech venture capital firm in New York and San Francisco, and the chairman of the board of Lending Club. In today’s Punk Rock-themed show, Hans talks to Al and Steve about some of his portfolio investments that touch on juicy industry themes, like: Generative AI (and interesting ways to use it), automated tax prep services and fresher ways to screen tenants than requesting their credit scores. Hans will also share some of his favorite wine picks just in time for the holidays.

Nov 13, 2024

Citizens Business Bank has made money in every single quarter of every single year for more than 47 years. Today on the show, Al and Steve talk to Dave Brager, CEO of Citizens Business Bank and 2022 GonzoBanker of the Year Bank award winner, about the bank’s impressive growth. Among the topics they explore for the $15.4 billion asset bank that a dairy farmer founded: the ability to deliver and lend through all economic cycles, remaining realistic about organic growth strategies and the importance of the talent pipeline. Oh... Al also applauds Dave for his dapper style.

Oct 2, 2024

Today on the show, Steve quizzes Al on the hottest topics discussed at the recent Association for Financial Technology Fall Summit held in Palm Springs. Among them: the Federal Reserve’s rate cut and what it could mean for regional banks, mounting regulatory fintech issues, holes in talent pipeline and whether branches are going extinct in the next two decades. Spoiler: They aren’t.

Sep 25, 2024

Lake City Bank has managed to grow its book value per share even amid some of the thorniest industry challenges. David Findlay, Chairman and CEO of Lake City Bank, talks to Al and Steve about why the bank is creating an innovation and tech center in Indiana, the significance of elevating the retail banker role and the importance of community outreach, including by making a move a big bank wouldn’t: maintaining rural branches. But his secret sauce? It’s literal: Don’s Rib Sauce at Alcona Country Club in Elkhart, Indiana.

Sep 12, 2024

It’s action packed in banking right now as regulatory uncertainty mounts with the looming presidential election. Today on the show, Al and Steve pick the brain of Nitin Mhatre, the CEO of Berkshire Bank, on the most pressing issues in banking. They explore the tension of a bank changing for the times while preserving its relationship-driven company culture, how to recruit senior talent and the importance of investing in technology. They also get into some of the cool initiatives the bank has pursued, including offering a bank account that comes with an unusual perk – paying up to $15 per month for subscriptions like Hulu and Netflix for certain direct deposit customers. Al also brings up the big reunion: the Oasis tour. Steve starts humming.

Aug 28, 2024

As Jeff Jackson, the CEO of WesBanco, sees it, M&A activity can only go up. In this episode, Al and Steve chat with Jeff about why that is and what is at stake for community banks across the country. They also explore other banking classics, including what the future of delivery in banking looks like, how to retain employees and what has helped the bank grow its deposits in a competitive year. They also opine on another passion: college football.

Aug 14, 2024

The frequent flyer miles are overflowing for Steve and Al as they continue to visit banks across the country. In this episode, they dish on the burning C-suite issues, including: recession risks, core deposit growth challenges (and ideas to overcome them) and an area they believe bankers need to step it up on – their succession planning. Don’t worry. They talk about Snoop Dogg, too.

May 15, 2024

Mike Daniels, the chairman and CEO of Nicolet Bank and Green Bay Packers’ board member, talks to Al and Steve about what it takes for a community bank to flourish right now and the NFL offseason. They also chat about how to preserve company culture when the business is scaling and offer tips on what not to do in pursuing deposits. Also, Mike provides a peek at what it’s like banking in America’s dairy land.

Apr 24, 2024

In this episode, Al and Steve discuss the mounting scrutiny on banking-as-a-service providers, the perplexities tied to a higher interest rate environment and the mounting concerns of succession planning. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Your hosts also chat about when M&A activity will pick up, how to preserve and nurture creativity while also mitigating risk and ways to become the best small business bank of the future.

Mar 29, 2024

It’s hard to stand out in banking but not impossible. In this cross-over edition of Plugged In, Al Dominick sits down with Mary Wisniewski to explore talent retention, theatrical innovation acts and the importance of the return on tech. They also get into mistakes banks make (ahem, on their social media video efforts) and introduce Mary's new show, 'Money Isn't Everything,' which starts to drop in mid-April.

Feb 28, 2024

Tom Michaud, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, is back! This time, he joins Steve and Al to answer the question bankers across the country want to know: How to compete with big institutions and non-banks. On the show, they get into common mistakes banks make, takeaways from KBW’s Winter Financial Services conference, and why they think the industry outlook right now is relatively positive. While fusing industry insights with the beats of timeless tunes from U2, the White Stripes and a few other favorites, Tom reminds listeners: the stocks had a 35% rally from the end of October to year end.

Jan 24, 2024

In this episode, Al and Steve sit down with April Clobes, president and CEO of MSU Federal Credit Union, to chat about growth strategies in Michigan, a state that ranks 49th in overall population growth since the 1990s. Spoiler: For the university credit union, it includes more intimate marketing, like sponsoring green-and-white pizzas (the university’s colors) and pizza-making classes. April also dishes on the credit union’s two digital banks, while the crew explores how to deal with lost revenue when becoming a $10 billion institution (thanks, Durbin).

Jan 3, 2024

Join Al Dominick and Steve Williams as they speak with Kirk Wycoff, managing partner, and Tom Cestare, COO, of Patriot Financial Partners to delve into how banks are building resilience through digital innovation. This episode features discussions on the integration of technology in banking operations, the importance of maintaining a robust digital posture, and strategies for efficient tech implementation. The conversation also explores how banks are balancing traditional practices with new digital demands to create a more resilient and competitive banking environment. Listen as they delve into the pivotal role of community banks within the financial ecosystem and how masterful management is the lynchpin of a strong balance sheet. Reflecting on the complacency in data interpretation in recent years, they explore how a select few banks under $10 billion withstood the storm, and the strategic role non-interest bearing deposits play in fortifying bank defenses against rate hikes. Optimism reigns supreme as they forecast a renaissance for community and regional banks in profitability and mergers and acquisitions, provided those banks adeptly navigate the shifting interest rate climates. To wrap up, Al, Steve and Kirk pay tribute to the dynamic shifts in banking acquisitions and salute the enduring influence of pioneering leaders who continue to shape the future of banking.

Dec 14, 2023

In this year’s final episode of Plugged In, Al and Steve reflect on their favorite moments from 2023 – including in banking, books and music. They also explore the top traits that make for smarter banks. Bonus: Hear the backstory of how the GonzoBanker Awards were developed. Subscribe to Plugged In for the latest from industry leaders in Banking, Finance, and Fintech!

Nov 15, 2023

Al and Steve sit down with Maria Tedesco, the president of Atlantic Union, the commonwealth of Virginia’s largest independent bank. They explore how to navigate some of the thorniest industry challenges, including: retaining deposits in a rising rate environment, cultivating trust in digital channels and leading efforts to diversify talent, especially in the c-suite. Steve sings a little Dave Matthews, too.Subscribe to Plugged In for the latest from industry leaders in Banking, Finance, and Fintech!

Oct 18, 2023

Al and Steve are back! Here is the audio version of their Smarter Bank Live virtual event that you don't want to miss. Join the insightful discussion on how banks can transform into "Smarter Banks" in the current environment. They explore 5 key pillars - being hyper-efficient, differentiated, nimble, data-driven, and opportunistic. Steve and Al share real examples of banks excelling in these areas, like Capital One's data prowess, Coastal Community Bank's innovative banking-as-a-service model, and Live Oak Bank's tech startup nCino. They discuss the competitive threats from big tech like Apple, Twitter/X, and new digital banks. Other topics include generative AI, building a digital scorecard, and the need for pragmatic innovation. Steve and Al provide practical tips for bank executives on mindsets, processes, and talent strategies to implement the Smarter Bank model. This episode provides an insightful playbook for banks of all sizes to transform themselves and deliver more value in a digital world. Subscribe to Plugged In for the latest in Banking and Fintech from Cornerstone Advisors.

Oct 4, 2023

Kevin Blair, the CEO of Synovus, shares with Al and Steve his views on hybrid work, sourcing talent from outside of banking, and chasing ideas even when the undercurrents are tough like right now. Among the bank’s recent pursuits? Launching Maast (money-as-a-service) while preparing to become a $100B bank.Subscribe to Plugged In for the latest in Banking and Fintech from Cornerstone Advisors.

Aug 30, 2023

On this episode Al Dominick and Steve Williams sit down with legendary entrepreneur Chip Mahan, founder of companies like Live Oak Bank and Canapi Ventures. Chip shares his unique perspective on innovation, building customer trust, controlling your tech destiny, and more. You'll hear Chip's incredible origin story, how he convinced reluctant partners to join him, and his views on the hype surrounding AI. If you want to learn from one of the most forward-thinking leaders in banking, tune into this lively and insightful conversation. The three shed light on the challenges facing the industry, the power of focusing on culture and long-term goals over short-term profits, and the keys to remaining nimble and opportunistic even in tough times. Don't miss Chip's great stories and words of wisdom on this episode of Plugged In, the podcast that plugs you into the exciting world where banking, finance, and technology meet.

Aug 16, 2023

How is AI transforming banking and financial services? On this episode, Al and Steve talk with Sarah Hinkfuss (Bain Capital Ventures) to provide an insider's perspective on the impact of generative AI tools like ChatGPT.They discuss strategies banks are taking to adopt AI: building custom models in-house, configuring existing solutions, and adopting ready-made vendor products. She explains the advantages of partnerships between fintech startups and incumbent banks. Hinkfuss analyzes real-world examples of AI in action across banking, highlighting use cases in areas like customer service, underwriting, and reporting. The discussion covers best practices for balancing innovation with regulation and compliance. While AI brings uncertainty, this episode explores the upside potential for banks to leverage AI to enhance operations, decision-making, and competitiveness.Subscribe to Plugged In for the latest in Banking, Fintech, and Finance!

Aug 2, 2023

On this episode, Al Dominick and Steve Williams give an unfiltered look at what's next for financial institutions during a time of rising rates, economic uncertainty, and fast-changing technology.You'll get the duo's straight talk on:Why historic Fed rate hikes call for long-term strategic planning, not knee-jerk reactionsHow to retain top talent and maintain an innovative, entrepreneurial cultureWhy recent stumbles by fintech and Big Tech prove banks have an edge after allWhat the PacWest and Bank of California merger signals about the future of M&AAlong the way, they shout out resident fintech guru Ron Shevlin for his savvy Apple Card analysis and share their buzzworthy reading list for staying ahead of the curve. Al and Steve are here to get you up to speed on what really matters for the future of banking.Subscribe to Plugged In for the latest in banking, fintech, and more!

Jun 7, 2023

On this episode of Plugged In, Al and Steve talk with Jill Castilla, President and CEO of Citizens Bank of Edmond, who shares her perspectives on incorporating creativity, promoting transparency, and implementing innovation in banking. Among her achievements are the successful revitalization of downtown Edmond through the 'Heard on Hurd' music festival, fostering trust in her bank and community through transparent communication, and positioning community banks as catalysts for change.Subscribe to Plugged In to hear more insights from top industry leaders in banking. Brought to you by Cornerstone Advisors.

May 25, 2023

On this episode of Plugged In, Al and Steve discuss the transformation of Washington Federal Bank under the leadership of this week's guest, CEO Brent Beardall. Starting off 2023 amidst a heartbreaking event, Brent emerged as a survivor of a devastating plane crash that sadly claimed the life of his friend and colleague, Nathan Ricks. The conversation explores the profound impact of such life-altering experiences, focusing on a renewed appreciation of life and fostering a deeper connection with the world we inhabit. Learn about Brent's journey of turning WaFd into a 'digital first' bank and creating Archway Software to revolutionize regional banking. Discover how Brent builds trust within the community by supporting local schools, financial literacy programs, and other initiatives. Finally, find out how technology is enhancing WaFd's customer experience and how the bank's expansion in California brings exciting opportunities.

May 10, 2023

On this episode, Al Dominick and Steve Williams sit down to talk about how recent bank failures have revealed the need for enhanced risk management and reinforced the importance of regional and community banks. The financial industry must learn from these incidents and implement strategies such as focusing on niches, embracing fintech partnerships, and remaining agile to ensure continued success. Subscribe to Plugged In for more in depth conversations with banking experts!

Apr 19, 2023

In today's episode, Steve and Al talk with Gene Ludwig, former Comptroller of the Currency and a banking regulation, risk management, and fiscal policy expert. Gene shares some powerful insights into modernizing the banking industry. They discuss the importance of smart regulation that helps to balance banking activities and technological advancements, the need for regulators to have the tools to manage tail risks quickly and avoid being caught off guard, and the need to have a mechanism that gives regulators and the public time to act in a crisis.

Mar 8, 2023

On this episode Steve and Al talk with Jim Reuter, CEO and President at FirstBank. They discuss Jim's vision for FirstBank as an "open bank" by integrating with various software solutions to better serve their clients. They dive into the importance of leadership, fostering innovation, and talent development in the banking industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of banking, financial institutions, and fintech innovation.

Feb 8, 2023

In this episode of Plugged In, Al Dominick is joined in the studio by Anton Schutz, an experienced bank stock investor and founder of Mendon Venture Partners, a venture capital firm focused on early- to mid-stage technology companies. The two debate when bank M&A might pick up, the need to reduce expenses — to reinvest in technology opportunities — and the drive for deposits, deposits, deposits. As a bonus, they highlight a great California vineyard doing something special to honor victims and survivors of 9/11.

Jan 30, 2023

On today's episode of Plugged In, Steve Williams sits down with Brandi Gregory, Managing Director in Cornerstone Advisors’ Contract Negotiation and Payments practices.

Jan 18, 2023

Executing a business strategy requires courage, commitment and culture — points raised by Eric Sprink, the CEO of Coastal Community Bank. With Al Dominick, the two explore embedded finance, embedded fintech, executing on a BaaS strategy and why now is such an amazing time to be a community banker.

Jan 4, 2023

Collyn Gilbert, the Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Valley Bank takes Plugged In's hosts, Al Dominick and Steve Williams, behind the scenes of the $54B+ institution. The three share quite a few laughs while talking about how to architect a strategy, areas of potential opportunities — and how to keep strategic planning from becoming a glorified budgeting activity.

Dec 22, 2022

The new CEO of the Consumer Bankers Association, Lindsey Johnson, joins Al Dominick to breakdown recent regulatory actions, potential oversight on crypto and emerging small business trends.

Dec 16, 2022

Al and Steve crank up the volume with the founder of Second Curve Capital, Tom Brown. Starting with the state of talent in the tech sector, the three discuss current marketing volatility, how bankers continue to pay lip-service to going "branch light" and why culture remains king in the financial sector.

Dec 12, 2022

In advance of his retirement from Idaho Central Credit Union, Steve Williams and Al Dominick talk with Kent Oram, ICCU's CEO, about luck being where opportunity and preparation meet. With one of the most impressive growth stories in financial services, Kent shares his approach to keeping creative mindsets from "being crushed" by naysayers. Further, how the team's culture evolved and is now known for successfully reaching out to communities through their Green Team.

Nov 30, 2022

With the CMO of Chainalysis, Ian Andrews, Al Dominick explores digital assets, on-chain identity and why business leaders should continue to lean in on blockchain — on the heels of FTX's collapes and this crypto winter.

Nov 14, 2022

While crypto craters, the business of banking continues to grow. Plugged In's Al Dominick is joined in studio by Ron Shevlin, the Chief Research Officer at Cornerstone Advisors. The two discuss how and where to accelerate banks' digital capabilities with the tech community's support. Al gets Ron to reveal why he remains so bullish on the concept of Buy Now, Pay Later...why he believes "geography is dead" for community banks...and how Ron rationalizes embedded fintech vs embedded finance.

Oct 31, 2022

Today our hosts Steve Williams and Al Dominick are joined by Tom Michaud, President & CEO at KBW. They talk about how investment banks are in a recession already, how bank regulation is going to be a very dominant part of the future, ESG, and much more.

Oct 19, 2022

Welcome to the first episode of Plugged In! For our first episode, our hosts Steve Williams and Al Dominick talk about 5 areas of growth and change that are relevant to all banks. The twin towers of transformation, why every basis point counts, how to think about technology from a performance management standpoint, the concept of scaling smart, and depoliticizing ESG.