Welcome to another episode of the Banking on Growth podcast, hosted by Mike Graham, President of Midwestern Securities. In this in-depth conversation, Mike sits down with Dr. Bill Chittenden, CEO of the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking (SWGSB) at SMU Cox School of Business. Together, they explore how leadership development and strategic education are vital for navigating today’s uncertainty in the banking sector.

From fostering talent in community banks to understanding the broader economic and regulatory landscape, Dr. Chittenden shares insights drawn from decades of experience bridging academia and industry. If you’re looking to understand how to invest in people while managing the unpredictable, this is the episode for you.

What’s Inside This Episode
As you listen to the discussion, you’ll learn:

• Building the Next Generation of Bank Leaders
Discover how SWGSB prepares bankers to take a holistic view of banking operations through immersive, multi-year programs. Participants engage in real-world projects, develop bank-specific strategic recommendations, and build a comprehensive understanding of funding, lending, compliance, and leadership.

• Spotting Future Leadership Talent
Find out how curiosity, work ethic, and cross-departmental interest distinguish rising leaders. Chittenden explains how managers can spot employees who want to be bankers—not just work at a bank—and why investing in them benefits the entire organization.

• Managing Through Uncertainty
Gain perspective on why “uncertainty” is the defining theme for 2025 and how geopolitical factors like tariffs, global supply chains, and domestic regulatory shifts are impacting community banking. Learn what it takes to stay focused amid consumer shifts, default trends, and C&I lending hesitancy.

• Strategic Insights on Tariffs and Trade
Hear Chittenden break down the economic myths around tariffs and why viewing them through a lens of long-term math—rather than political rhetoric—is essential. From Smoot-Hawley to modern protectionism, the conversation explores the real costs and trade-offs facing bankers and consumers alike.

Additional Highlights:
• Electives That Matter: Learn how SWGSB offers advanced courses on topics like wealth management, AI in banking, and problem loan workouts—giving participants practical tools for growth.
• Macro Meets Micro: Understand why community bankers must balance national economic shifts with hyperlocal business needs to make sound lending decisions.
• Crypto & Digital Trends: Hear Chittenden’s blunt take on cryptocurrency's long-term viability and why present value drives real financial value.
• Regulatory Fairness:

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Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry.

If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/.

Member FINRA/SIPC

Welcome to another episode of the Banking on Growth podcast, hosted by Mike Graham, President of Midwestern Securities. In this enlightening conversation, Mike speaks with Margaret Hartigan, CEO and founder of Marstone, Inc., to explore the evolving digital wealth management industry and how community financial institutions can modernize their offerings through strategic technology adoption.

Marstone isn’t your average fintech solution. Built with deep roots in traditional wealth management, the platform offers a fully digital, goal-based investment and financial planning experience. But Margaret is quick to clarify—it’s not a robo-advisor. “We’re not here to replace bankers or advisors,” she says. “We’re here to help them scale, stay compliant, and serve clients in a modern, user-centric way.”

What’s Inside This Episode:

As you watch this episode, you can find:

• Digital Expectations: Learn how community banks can meet the demands of today’s mobile-first, tech-savvy customers.
• Goal-Based Planning: Discover how interactive tools help clients visualize and prioritize their financial goals.
• System Integration: Explore how Marstone connects with core platforms like Jack Henry and Q2 for a unified experience.
• Financial Education: See why personalized learning tools build trust and drive long-term customer engagement.
• Journey Mapping: Understand how to align wealth, lending, and banking into a seamless client experience.
• Revenue Sharing: Uncover how institutions can earn up to 25% back by offering digital wealth solutions.
  
  

Stay tuned as Margaret Hartigan reveals why digital wealth management is no longer optional—and how community banks can use it to retain customers, increase non-interest income, and future-proof their business. Whether you're leading a credit union or scaling a regional bank, this conversation offers the strategic clarity and real-world examples needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Stay tuned and listen now to hear how your institution can turn digital engagement into deeper relationships, stronger retention, and sustainable growth!

Subscribe now to receive notifications and access the complete library of empowering episodes designed exclusively for community financial institution leaders seeking to thrive in wealth management services.

For more information on strengthening your retail wealth management division, contact us, and let’s start talking!

Follow us for more financial insights:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities
Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999

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Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry.

If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/.

Member FINRA/SIPC

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Banking on Growth podcast, hosted by Mike Graham, President of Midwestern Securities. In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative power of technology in community banking with our special guest, Sam Biardo, CEO of Technology Advisors.

Sam brings a wealth of expertise in consulting and software development, focusing on connecting bank core systems to Creatio—a low-code CRM platform tailored specifically for banks and credit unions. Together, Mike and Sam explore how CRMs can revolutionize processes like customer onboarding, referral management, marketing automation, and even predictive AI-powered tools like "next best offer" recommendations.

What’s Inside This Episode:

As the conversation unfolds, you'll gain valuable insights into:

• The role of CRMs in improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
• AI-driven decision-making, including supervised learning models that analyze customer data to deliver personalized product suggestions.
• Customer journey mapping, a strategic approach to understanding and enhancing every step of a customer's experience with your financial institution.
• Referral tracking and management, ensuring seamless handoffs and timely follow-ups to maximize customer retention.

Whether you're a tech-savvy banker or someone new to the world of CRMs and AI, this episode offers practical advice and real-world examples that highlight how technology can help community financial institutions thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. Tune in to learn how to create happier customers, build stronger relationships, and drive growth through innovation!

#BankingInnovation #FinancialGrowth

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation!

Follow us for more financial insights:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities
Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999

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Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry.

If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/.

Member FINRA/SIPC

Welcome to Banking on Growth! In this milestone episode, Cassie Tarboletti, Executive Vice President of Midwestern Securities, takes the host seat and flips the script by interviewing Mike Graham, President of Midwestern Securities. As the firm celebrates 25 years of success as an independent broker-dealer and RIA, Mike reflects on the journey, sharing invaluable insights into how the financial services industry has evolved—and what’s stayed constant.

What’s Inside This Episode:

• The dramatic consolidation of financial institutions and how Midwestern Securities has thrived amidst industry shakeups
• The rise of technology, from the dot-com bubble to today’s AI revolution—and what it means for the future
• How community-based financial institutions can adapt to changing consumer tastes while staying true to their core values

Mike also discusses the importance of rules-based financial planning, strategic adaptability, and nurturing the next generation of leadership. From navigating economic downturns like the Great Recession to embracing disruptive opportunities, this episode is packed with lessons learned over a quarter century in financial services.

Don’t miss this deep dive into 25 years of growth and innovation! Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes exploring the future of financial services.

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation!

#BankingOnGrowth #FinancialServices #AIInFinance #CommunityBanks #BrokerDealer #StrategicPlanning

Follow us for more financial insights:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities
Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999

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Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry.

If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/.

Member FINRA/SIPC

In today's episode, we have a special guest, Angela Beblo from Jackson Kelly, who brings a wealth of knowledge in banking and finance. Together, we'll discuss why performance metrics are vital for community banks and how understanding these numbers can lead to stronger institutions.

Join us as we unpack essential topics such as:
• The importance of monitoring key financial metrics
• How to leverage technology for better financial insights
• Real-world examples of recent bank failures and what we can learn from them

Whether you're a banking professional or just curious about the financial landscape, this podcast is designed for you. So grab your headphones and get ready to gain valuable perspectives that can help foster growth in your community bank.

Don't forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Let's get started!


About Our Guest

Angela Beblo is a member of Jackson Kelly, a prominent law firm headquartered in West Virginia with additional offices across several states, including Indiana and Kentucky. Angela brings extensive banking and finance law expertise, making her a valuable asset to our discussion.

With a robust team of approximately 150 lawyers, Jackson Kelly specializes in transactional work and strongly focuses on community banking. Angela has significant experience working closely with various financial institutions in this field. Notably, she has connections to the American Community Bank, which was co-founded by a member of her firm and has since evolved into the German American Bank.

Follow us for more financial insights:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities
Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999

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Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry.

If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/.

Member FINRA/SIPC

Join us for this episode of Banking On Growth, where host Mike Graham welcomes Wes Johnson, CPA from Forvis Mazars. In this insightful discussion, we explore the evolving landscape of community banking, particularly in light of recent political changes and their implications for tax planning. Wes shares his expertise on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, accelerated depreciation strategies, and fintech's growing influence in banking operations.

As we navigate through topics such as potential tax legislation under a Republican administration and the importance of strategic planning for community banks, you'll gain valuable insights into how these factors can shape the future of financial institutions.

Whether you're a banker, investor, or simply interested in the financial sector, this episode is packed with essential information to help you understand the current trends and challenges in community banking.

Don't miss out—tune in now to stay informed and empowered in your financial journey!

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The information set forth in this presentation contains the analysis and conclusions of the author(s) based upon his/her/their research and analysis of industry information and legal authorities. Such analysis and conclusions should not be deemed opinions or conclusions by Forvis Mazars or the author(s) as to any individual situation as situations are fact-specific. The reader should perform their own analysis and form their own conclusions regarding any specific situation. Further, the author(s)’ conclusions may be revised without notice with or without changes in industry information and legal authorities.

Contact
Forvis Mazars

Wes Johnson
Director
P: 217.429.2411
Wes.johnson@us.forvismazars.com

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Follow us for more financial insights:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities
Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999

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Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry.

If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/.

Member FINRA/SIPC

Join us for another engaging episode of Banking on Growth with host Mike Graham as he welcomes Eric Cook from WSI. In this insightful discussion, Eric shares his journey from a community banker to a digital marketing expert, focusing on how community banks can leverage technology and data to thrive today.

Discover the importance of understanding data, the role of artificial intelligence in marketing, and how to foster a culture that values innovative marketing strategies. Whether in the banking industry or just interested in the intersection of finance and technology, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in now!

About Our Guest
Eric Cook is a seasoned banking and digital marketing professional with over 15 years of experience as a community banker. His firm specializes in web design, social media strategies, SEO, and strategic marketing services, primarily for community banks and financial institutions.

In addition to his work with WSI, Eric founded The Linked Banker, a mentoring and mastermind community that helps banking professionals leverage technology and enhance their online presence. His dual focus on institutional marketing and individual banker development allows him to bridge the gap between traditional banking practices and modern digital strategies, making him a valuable resource for financial institutions looking to innovate and grow.

Follow us for more financial insights:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities
Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999

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Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry.

If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/.

Member FINRA/SIPC

Welcome to the Banking on Growth podcast, hosted by Mike Graham, President of Midwestern Securities. In this episode, we are excited to have Charlie Kelly, a partner at Remedy Consulting, join us for an insightful discussion on the intricacies of technology contracting and negotiation within the banking sector.

About Our Guest
Charlie brings a wealth of experience from his time at one of the largest core vendors in the industry, where he managed pricing and contracts. With over six years at Remedy Consulting, he and his team focus on helping community banks and credit unions navigate the complex landscape of technology contracts. Their mission is to ensure financial institutions receive fair treatment from their technology vendors while maximizing their growth potential.

What You’ll Learn

• Understanding Technology Contracts: Charlie explains how contracts are structured in the banking industry and the implications these agreements have on growth opportunities for banks and credit unions.
• The Role of Consultants: We discuss why more than 50% of financial institutions are now turning to consultants like Remedy for assistance with their technology contracts. Charlie shares insights into how consultants can save institutions money and provide strategic guidance during contract negotiations.
• Market Trends: The conversation dives into current trends affecting technology vendors, including the impact of private equity on service quality and customer support. Charlie highlights how these changes can affect user experience and operational efficiency.
• Navigating Vendor Relationships: Learn about community banks’ challenges when dealing with large core providers and how Remedy Consulting helps clients achieve better outcomes in their vendor relationships.
• Case Studies: Charlie shares real-world examples of how Remedy has successfully assisted clients in negotiating better terms and conditions, ultimately leading to significant cost savings.

Join Us
Whether you’re a financial institution executive, a board member, or simply interested in the intersection of finance and technology, this episode is packed with valuable insights that can help you understand the importance of strategic vendor partnerships in driving growth.

Stay Connected
Don't forget to subscribe to Banking on Growth for more episodes featuring industry experts sharing their knowledge on navigating challenges in the banking sector. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with your network!

Thank you for tuning in!

Subscribe now to receive notifications and access the complete library of empowering episodes designed exclusi

Follow us for more financial insights:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities
Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999

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Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry.

If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/.

Member FINRA/SIPC