Cornerstone Credit Union League President/CEO Caroline Willard stopped by the Studio Lounge to share highlights from her Underground session on "Unlocking the Ecosystem."

In particular, Caroline emphasized collaboration among credit unions to boost buying power and drive innovation. She shared recent experiences regarding a growing interest in fraud solutions and the use of AI to enhance member services. 

She also covered the importance of stablecoins and the need for credit unions to engage with emerging financial technologies.

NOTE: Pardon the noise in the background, as we conducted many of our interviews with presenters sharing their insights on stage behind our camera.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts.  And be sure to watch all our 2025 Underground Collision at Money 20/20 interviews.

Amber Harsin, Vice President of Credit Unions at Mambu, and Tyler Valentine, President/CEO at StagePoint Federal Credit Union, joined us in the Studio Lounge to discuss partnerships with fintechs and future technologies like AI and quantum computing.

Amber and Tyler shared their concerns about rising fraud, highlighting AI's dual role in both facilitating and preventing fraud. They also addressed the importance of a comprehensive digital strategy and how quick technology integration is underscored, concluding with gratitude for credit unions' contributions.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts. And be sure to watch all our 2025 Underground Collision at Money 20/20 interviews.

Dr. Brandi Stankovic, Principal at Strategic Advisory Solutions, opened our coverage of the 2025 Underground Collision at Money 20/20 to discuss the "collision of contrasts," and how this all relates to credit unions today.

In addition, Brandi updated us on international activities focusing on women in leadership and youth engagement challenges. She also discussed the future of cooperative finance, emphasizing learning from global practices.

Key themes Brandi touched on include collaboration among credit unions, membership growth, and technology integration, with strategies to engage younger members.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts. And be sure to watch all our Underground Collision at Money 20/20 interviews.

Latrice McGlothin, Community Executive Director at Kinecta Federal Credit Union, joined us in the Studio Lounge to share her innovative idea for REACH's "The Pitch" contest, which helps empower underserved students at a local high school by having them lead the production of a podcast (“Voices of Impact: A Community Podcast Powered by Student Producers”) designed to share how credit unions drive community transformation.

Spoiler alert: Latrice won the contest and received a check for $10,000 to help fund the program highlighted for its potential to amplify authentic stories and provide students with hands-on multimedia experience, as well as preparing them for future careers. (See the press release announcement.)

Q&A summary
What is the purpose of The Pitch competition mentioned in the podcast?
The Pitch competition allows credit unions to present innovative ideas they dream of implementing, with feedback from celebrity judges and attendees.
Can you explain the concept behind the 'Voices of Impact' student-powered podcast?
The 'Voices of Impact' podcast aims to empower students from underserved areas by teaching them about media arts and civic engagement through hands-on experience.
How does the podcast plan to engage students in the production process?
Students will be involved in all aspects of the podcast, including setup, taping, and editing, allowing them to gain practical skills in media production.
What types of stories will the podcast focus on?
The podcast will focus on transformational stories from credit unions, aiming to inspire and motivate students by showcasing impactful narratives.
What is the significance of the student named Anthony in the podcast's narrative?
Anthony's transformation from a disengaged student to working for PBS exemplifies the potential impact of the program on students' lives and careers.
How does the podcast aim to educate students about finance?
The podcast will intentionally incorporate financial education, helping students understand the business aspects of media production alongside creative skills.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts. And be sure to watch more episodes from our Studio Lounge coverage at 2025 REACH on our interview archive page. Also, check out and support our conference host, CANVUT Credit Union Leagues, and sponsors: Velera, Cook Solutions Group, Backbone, and Despite Impossible podcast.

Lucy Ito, Interim President/CEO at CANVUT Credit Union Leagues, joined us in the Studio Lounge to discuss her role in stepping up for CA/NV/UT Credit Union Leagues during the leadership transition phase, relying on her past years experience leading NASCUS, credit unions (Orange County's Credit Union), and CANV Leagues.

In addition, Lucy commented on the importance of technology in today's credit unions and the need for practical applications with those fintech solutions. She also emphasized collaboration among the three states while maintaining their identities within the organization -- a very unique, yet effective, situation.

Lastly, Lucy addressed advocacy efforts focus on local engagement, and concluded with goals for the conference and her appreciation for this year's attendees -- along with sharing a sporting surprise toward the end of our conversation.

Q&A summary
What are some highlights from the conference that Lucy Ito mentioned?
Lucy highlighted the fantastic program designed to help credit unions understand technology applications, risks, and practical solutions.
How does the alliance between California, Nevada, and Utah credit unions maintain state identity?
The alliance emphasizes maintaining state identity while fostering partnerships, ensuring that each state's unique needs and voices are represented.
What is the focus of the advocacy programs mentioned by Lucy Ito?
The advocacy programs are focused on local issues, ensuring that the distinct needs of each state are addressed while collaborating on broader initiatives.
What are Lucy Ito's goals as the interim president and CEO during this transition?
Her goals include establishing a solid foundation for fuel solutions and preparing for upcoming advocacy challenges in a dynamic political environment.
What is the importance of the mid-size credit union round table mentioned in the conference?
The round table provides a vital opportunity for mid-size credit unions to exchange ideas and ensure their voices are heard, as they are crucial to the industry's backbone.

Check it out and let us know your thoughts. And be sure to watch more episodes from our Studio Lounge coverage at 2025 REACH on our interview archive page. Also, check out and support our conference host, CANVUT Credit Union Leagues, and sponsors: Velera, Cook Solutions Group, Backbone, and Despite Impossible podcast.