Welcome to a brand new, highly engaging episode of the Women of Community Banking Podcast! Your host, Anurag Mukherjee, is joined by the insightful and experienced Bhavna Guglani, Chief Digital Officer of BCU( @loveBCU ) This interview offers a deep dive into the dynamic world of digital finance, leadership, and the future of community banking.Bhavna Guglani brings a truly unique and comprehensive perspective to the table, forged over 25 years of diverse experience across the financial industry. Her journey began in consumer banking in India and the UK, transitioned into a significant decade-plus tenure in the cutting-edge FinTech sector (including her role at Savi Money), and now sees her at the forefront of digital innovation for BCU, a prominent credit union based in Chicago. She possesses a rare "360-degree view" of consumer finance, shaped by her exposure to multiple geographies and varied organizational structures.In this episode, Bhavna shares not just her professional expertise but also the personal story behind her drive. Discover how her background as a dedicated "sports kid" instilled the discipline, collaboration, and leadership qualities that seamlessly transitioned into her successful management career. She articulates her deep motivation: impacting people's daily financial lives and thriving in cultures that prioritize progressive products and strong organizational values.

Get ready for an incredibly inspiring and candid conversation on "Women of Community Banking"! In this must-watch episode, host Anurag Mukherjee sits down with the remarkable Samantha Beeler, President of The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates. Prepare to be captivated by her unique and powerful story.

Samantha shares her extraordinary path, starting as a missionary who traveled to over 30 countries, engaging in everything from building infrastructure to combating human trafficking. This foundational experience deeply rooted her passion for "people helping people," a principle that now defines her impactful career in the credit union movement.

Discover what truly fuels Samantha's relentless drive, even amidst a demanding schedule of constant travel. She openly discusses the real challenges of balancing a high-intensity leadership role with being a military spouse and a mother of three daughters, offering invaluable insights into navigating complex personal and professional demands. Learn her hard-won lessons about setting priorities, building community, and the surprising truth that "having it all isn't the goal."

Samantha also provides a compelling look into the future of the credit union movement in 2025 and beyond. She articulates The League's crucial role as an advocate, collaborator, and influencer, dedicated to creating a thriving operating environment for credit unions. Hear how they're supporting institutions of all sizes – with a special focus on small credit unions – and why she believes the movement's destiny rests in its own hands.

This episode is more than just an interview; it's a deep dive into resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of advocacy. Don't miss this opportunity to gain wisdom from a true leader dedicated to empowering communities through the credit union philosophy.

In this insightful episode of the "Women of Community Banking" podcast, join host Anurag Mukherjee as he sits down with Caroline Willard, the dynamic CEO of Cornerstone League. With nearly 30 years in financial services, including over two decades dedicated to credit unions, Caroline shares her remarkable journey from banking and CUSOs to leading one of the most prominent credit union leagues.Discover what truly fuels Caroline's passion for the credit union movement, her "Ikigai" – the inner reason that keeps her going. She opens up about the unique challenges she faced as a woman navigating the financial services industry and offers invaluable advice for aspiring female leaders, including the power of asking good questions, embracing diligence, and the importance of self-awareness in leadership.Caroline provides a candid look at the current landscape of the credit union movement, discussing the significant threat of losing the federal income tax exemption, the ever-increasing regulatory burden, and the evolving competitive landscape driven by consumer demands for seamless digital experiences. She emphasizes the crucial role of advocacy and strategic partnerships in ensuring credit unions remain the best choice for communities.TakeawaysCaroline's passion for credit unions drives her leadership.The credit union movement focuses on community support.Women in leadership should embrace curiosity and ask questions.Advocacy is crucial for the survival of credit unions.Regulatory burdens are a significant challenge for credit unions.Technology adoption is essential for credit unions to remain relevant.Self-awareness in leadership styles is important for women.Common sense regulations are needed in the financial sector.Collaboration among credit unions enhances their effectiveness.The future of credit unions depends on adapting to consumer expectations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Caroline and Her Journey03:03 The Passion for Credit Unions05:49 Career Path and Leadership Insights08:50 The Role of Advocacy in Credit Unions11:57 Challenges Faced by Women in Leadership15:04 Advice for Aspiring Female Leaders17:53 Current State of the Credit Union Movement21:00 Future Challenges and Opportunities23:53 Looking Ahead to 2025 Caroline Willard : https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-willard-cce-cude-cae-659a385/