The CUInsight Network

“We help credit unions find solutions to their challenges.” - Barb LowmanThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guest on today’s show is Barb Lowman, President at CUNA Strategic Services (CSS). Barb is a return guest to the podcast and shares a brief overview of her previous episode. CSS connects credit unions and leagues to the industry's top solution providers. The team at CSS understands the issues credit unions face, finds solutions to solve those problems, and distributes those solutions to credit unions of all sizes.During our conversation, Barb and I chat about the value CSS provides in connecting, collaborating, and providing solutions for the credit union system. She talks about CSS’ new webinar series, Safeguarding Your Credit Union’s Future, and shares how it was designed based on the needs and feedback of executives in the industry. Barb shares the passion and commitment of the CSS team to help credit unions thrive and better serve their members. As we look to the future, Barb shares their plan to rebrand and reimagine their strategy to continue serving the credit union industry.As we wrap up the episode, Barb talks about an upcoming trip she is excited about, a book she recommends, and the importance of being intentional and spreading kindness.Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Barb:Barb Lowman, President at CUNA Strategic Servicesblowman@cuna.coopcunastrategicservices.comBarb: LinkedInCSS: LinkedIn

“We’re focused on how we can impact, influence and support credit unions.”- Libby CalderoneThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guests on today’s show are Libby Calderone, President & COO at Envisant and Tom Kane, President & CEO at Illinois Credit Union League. Libby and Tom share their career journeys that led them to their current roles. Envisant, a subsidiary of the Illinois Credit Union League, provides exceptional pricing and functionality in the card space by aggregating credit unions of diverse sizes. Envisant helps credit unions find solutions and achieve their vision through experience and expertise.During our conversation, we discuss all that Envisant has achieved to earn CUSO Of The Year, awarded by NACUSO and what that means to Libby and Tom as we look to the future. Libby talks about Envisant’s partnership with Curql Collective, providing opportunity for credit unions with assets above $100 million to jointly invest in transformative technology to remain competitive and relevant. Tom announces an upcoming transition in leadership at the Illinois Credit Union League and Libby shares excitement in what’s to come. Listen as Libby and Tom talk about their dedication to the movement in helping credit unions grow, thrive, and prepare for the future.As we wrap up the episode, Libby and Tom share great leaders in their life, what they are splurging on these days when it comes to travel and home renovations, along with how to balance work and home life. Enjoy my conversation with Libby and Tom!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Libby:Libby Calderone, President & COO at Envisantwww.envisant.comLibby: LinkedInEnvisant: LinkedIn | Facebook | X Connect with Tom:Tom Kane, President & CEO of Illinois Credit Union Leaguewww.icul.comTom: LinkedInIllinois Credit Union League: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X

“We help credit union members overcome the financial challenges faced when paying for college.” - Jim HoltThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guest on today’s show is Jim Holt, Chief Development Officer at Student Choice. Jim shares his career journey that led him to his current role. Student Choice works with credit unions to deliver innovative financing solutions that help members responsibly overcome the challenges of higher education affordability.During our conversation, Jim shares how private student lending can benefit credit unions and their members. He explains the importance of engaging and retaining younger members and how credit unions can do so by offering student loans. Jim shares the opportunities for cross-selling and strengthening member relationships throughout the lifecycle of a private student loan. He discusses the value in offering nontraditional student loans for vocational schools and even pilot training. Listen as Jim talks about the many opportunities for credit unions to provide future-focused funding.As we wrap up the episode, Jim talks about a mentor who helped him early in his career, a bar built by him and his wife, and a tip to attending concerts, but purchasing tickets the day of so they’re less expensive. Enjoy my conversation with Jim Holt!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Jim:Jim Holt, Chief Development Officer at Student Choicecreditunions.studentchoice.orgJim: LinkedInStudent Choice: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X

“We are truly helping the underserved.” - Lorrie WohlfeilThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guest on today’s show is Lorrie Wohlfeil, COO and Consultant at Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc. Lorrie shares her career journey that is deeply rooted in the credit union industry and influenced by her father, Rex Johnson. Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc. provides comprehensive training and on-site consulting to address and overcome the challenges credit unions face.During our conversation, Lorrie shares the foundational principles that drive Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc. to serve their members with empathy and expertise. She explains how education and understanding can transform financial outcomes for members. Lorrie shares their unique approach of blending classroom education with hands-on experience, where consultants step into the shoes of credit union staff to ensure the practical application of knowledge. Listen as Lorrie talks about empowering credit union teams to educate, serve, and support members through each stage of their lives.As we wrap up the episode, Lorrie talks about her admiration for her father, traveling with her family, and work-life balance tips. Enjoy my conversation with Lorrie Wohlfeil!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Lorrie:Lorrie Wohlfeil, COO and Consultant at Lending Solutions Consulting, Inc.rexcuadvice.comLorrie: LinkedInLending Solutions Consulting, Inc: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X

“Everything rises and falls on leadership.” - Bill PartinThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guest on today’s show is Bill Partin, Founder & CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) at The Leadership Bet. Bill shares his career journey in financial services that led him to his current role. His passion for credit unions and leadership led him to building The Leadership Bet. The Leadership Bet helps credit union teams become their best by developing leaders, driving results, and creating an energizing people-first culture.During our conversation, Bill shares the importance of leadership development and the positive impact it has on individuals, teams, and overall workplace culture. He talks about setting an intentional process where team members feel valued, and how these strategic goals ripple throughout the organization. Bill explains the significance in aligning your strategic plan and culture plan to deepen relationships and grow. Listen as Bill talks about developing leadership that is abundant and purpose-driven.As we wrap up the episode, Bill talks about visiting his hometown, books he enjoys and highly recommends, and journaling to keep a healthy work-life balance. Enjoy my conversation with Bill Partin!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Bill:Bill Partin, Founder & CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) at The Leadership Bettheleadershipbet@gmail.com theleadershipbet.com        Bill: LinkedInThe Leadership Bet: LinkedIn

“Our goal is to empower the Latinx community in the credit union industry.” - Barbara MojicaThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guest on today’s show is Barbara Mojica, Executive Director at NLCUP (National Association of Latino Credit Unions & Professionals). Barbara shares the journey that led her to her current role at NLCUP and how crashing the GAC ignited her credit union spark. NLCUP is dedicated to increasing professional development opportunities and providing services and financial education to the Hispanic/Latino community.During our conversation, Barbara explains ways credit unions can support the Hispanic/Latino community and empower Latinx professionals in the industry. She talks about strategically placing leaders for better representation of diverse communities. Barbara shares the challenges women of color face and how the credit union industry can better support them. Listen as Barbara talks about helping credit unions connect, serve, and empower the Latinx community.As we wrap up the episode, Barbara talks about admiring her mom, treating herself to spa days, and visiting Puerto Rico. Enjoy my conversation with Barbara Mojica!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Barbara:Barbara Mojica, Executive Director at NLCUPbmojica@nlcup.org nlcup.org        Barbara: LinkedInNLCUP: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram 

“Challenge yourself to be great.” - Kurt KlassenThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guest on today’s show is Kurt Klassen, Executive Vice President at LEVEL5. Kurt shares his career journey that led him to his current role. The team at LEVEL 5 allows credit unions to think ahead, plan well, build smart, and grow. Kurt encourages listeners to embrace a bold vision and believes that every credit union team can reach its potential. LEVEL5 helps credit unions minimize risk while amplifying growth through branch development and redesign.During our conversation, Kurt discusses how credit unions can develop a branch strategy. He shares insights about understanding your markets and evaluating your unique service delivery. Listen as Kurt talks about customizing your branch design and building an effective strategy to increase performance and opportunities for your credit union.As we wrap up the episode, Kurt shares memories about being inspired by servant leadership, loving time near water, and visiting his favorite city in CA. Enjoy my conversation with Kurt Klassen!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Kurt:Kurt Klassen, Executive Vice President at LEVEL5kklassen@level5.com level5.com        Kurt: LinkedInLEVEL5: LinkedIn | Youtube

“When we prioritize mental health, we create stronger, healthier, more compassionate industries for everyone.” - Robbie YoungThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guest on today’s show is Robbie Young, VP of Strategic Growth at CUInsight. Robbie is a Certified Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE), mental health advocate, and our unending source of fun facts about the world. She sees CUInsight as a central source to keep credit union professionals inspired, connected, and informed. During our conversation, Robbie discusses the importance of mental health advocacy and shares resources. She talks about the direct and indirect influence mental health has on professionals in the industry. Robbie explains the importance of taking care of ourselves first, so we can properly care for our members and teams. She shares her experience and the benefits gained from the Credit Union Development Education (DE Program) and looks forward to returning as a mentor this year. Listen as Robbie talks about what you can do to support the mental health of yourself and others.As we wrap up the episode, Robbie shares some of her famous fun facts, talks about downloading productivity apps, and shares her latest book recommendation. Enjoy my conversation with Robbie Young!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Robbie:Robbie Young, VP of Strategic Growth at CUInsightryoung@cuinsight.com cuinsight.com        Robbie: LinkedInCUInsight: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube | X

“Remove the fear and start asking the right questions.” - Bo McDonaldThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guest on today’s show is Bo McDonald, President and CEO at Your Marketing Co. The team at Your Marketing Co. seeks to empower credit union teams through strategic marketing, planning, and branding. Bo emphasizes the team’s mission to help credit unions avoid unnecessary mergers and thrive by engaging, educating, and retaining the next generation of members.During our conversation, Bo discusses how credit unions can be curious about risks to tackle the fear of change. He talks about evaluating data and developing an appetite for risk as an organization to stay on top of trends and technology. Your Marketing Co. works with credit unions large and small to make a unique difference. Listen as Bo talks about approaches to remain relevant, and attract and retain members now and in the future.As we wrap up the episode, Bo talks about wanting to be a better pasta maker, giving a shout-out to risk-healthy credit unions, and sharing his latest book recommendation. Enjoy my conversation with Bo McDonald!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Bo:Bo McDonald, Founder, President, and CEO at Your Marketing Co.bo@yourmarketingco.comyourmarketing.coBo: LinkedIn | XYour Marketing Co.: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | XPodcast: Accidental Leadership

“People want to do business with organizations that are motivated by their ‘why’.” - Dave DrouinThank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.My guests on today’s show are Katie Stone, CEO & Co-owner at PixelSpoke, and Dave Drouin President & Co-owner at PixelSpoke. As an empowering B Corp, PixelSpoke promotes a cooperative economy by elevating the digital presence of credit unions. The team prides themselves on being true partners and creating beautiful, easy-to-use, award-winning websites.During our conversation, Katie and Dave discuss what makes a true collaboration. They talk about PixelSpoke’s core values as they pertain to decision-making and success. Katie and Dave share the value of cooperative principles, specifically, “cooperation among cooperatives” and how credit unions can amplify this competitive advantage within the market. Listen as Katie and Dave talk about elevating vendor relationships into a true partnership.As we wrap up the episode, Katie and Dave talk about the amazing team at PixelSpoke, DIY projects, and book recommendations, and having fun while traveling. Enjoy my conversation with Katie and Dave!Find the full show notes on cuinsight.com.Connect with Katie:Katie Stone CEO & Co-owner at PixelSpokekatie@pixelspoke.com pixelspoke.coopKatie: LinkedInPixelSpoke: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | XConnect with Dave:Dave Drouin President & Co-owner at Pixel Spokedavid@pixelspoke.com pixelspoke.coopDave: LinkedIn