Banking on Digital Growth

Ryan Harmon, Co-founder of Metrify and Paralim, shares his insights on how AI can empower banks and credit unions to leapfrog fintech competitors. He discusses the potential of AI to reshape banking experiences and drive innovation through autonomous spinoffs. The conversation dives into the Innovator's Dilemma, highlighting why traditional banks struggle to embrace disruptive technologies. Harmon emphasizes the need for banks to evolve beyond legacy systems and make AI a strategic priority to remain competitive in a rapidly changing financial landscape.

Hey, this is Derik. I recently tried using ChatGPT's Agent Mode to make transfers between my personal bank accounts. I didn't get the outcome I was hoping for, but that's not because AI isn't capable of doing it. In fact, it's more than capable of doing that and other banking tasks, especially if there is a human in the loop. In this episode, my co-founder, Ryan Harmon, and I show and tell what agentic AI is capable of doing and how it's going to transform the banking user experience. Listen to learn how AI is reshaping the future of banking and what opportunities lie ahead for individuals and financial institutions.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

For the first time, JR is a guest on the podcast he started. Join me, Derik Krauss, as I debut as the new host of the Banking on Digital Growth Podcast.In this episode, I interview JR and we talk about challenges he has overcome, including facing an autoimmune condition, as well as his plans for the next decade.What we unpacked in this conversation is truly thought-provoking. It has led me to reflect on what has happened in my life over the last decade and what I want for the next 10 years.Not only is this type of reflection valuable personally, but it can also lead to true transformation for your credit union or bank. As JR says, all change starts with learning truth and seeing things differently. What "truth gaps" are holding back your financial institution?Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Most community banks and credit unions have websites that look decent—but they’re just glorified brochures. They’re not bringing in loans, deposits, or meaningful customer engagement. That’s a big problem. Because every day your site doesn’t convert, you’re losing potential revenue to competitors who’ve figured out how to make their digital presence work for them. A static, underperforming site isn’t just a missed opportunity—it’s a liability. In this episode, James Robert and Derik talk about how to flip the script and turn your website into a true sales engine. You can find this episode and many more by subscribing to Banking on Digital Growth on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

AI agents aren’t coming—they’re already here. And they’re about to reshape how people search, shop, and apply for financial products. In this episode of the Banking on Digital Growth Podcast, host James Robert Lay is joined by co-host Derik Krauss to unpack the fast-moving shift from generative AI to autonomous AI agents—and why this change is happening faster than most financial brand leaders realize. We explore what AI agents actually are, how they differ from GenAI, and why your brand’s current visibility in Google Search might not mean squat in an AI-powered world.From OpenAI’s new Agent Mode to Semrush’s bombshell research on AI search behavior, we dive deep into how machines are now completing tasks that were once human-only—and what that means for your marketing, UX, and growth strategy moving forward. Because in the age of AI agents, one year of inaction could cost you a decade of relevance.You can find this episode and many more by subscribing to Banking on Digital Growth on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Traditional SEO is dying—and AI search is taking its place. In this episode of the Banking on Digital Growth Podcast, host James Robert Lay and co-host Derik Krauss dive into the seismic shift in how people search, shop, and make financial decisions online. With research from Semrush and Ahrefs predicting that AI-driven search will surpass Google by 2028—or even sooner—this isn’t just a trend. It’s a warning.Financial brands that rely heavily on Google and PPC are at risk of becoming invisible in the new AI-first search landscape. Why does this matter? Because behavior is shifting fast, and many institutions are lagging behind without realizing it.JR and Derik share what your financial brand must do now to prepare. From measuring your AI visibility to understanding what content actually gets you found in ChatGPT responses, this episode is a blueprint for staying competitive—and staying seen.You can find this episode and many more by subscribing to Banking on Digital Growth on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you dying, surviving, or thriving? In a rapidly evolving age of AI and fintech disruption, the real threat isn’t competition—it’s complacency. Too many banks and credit unions are stuck in survival mode, reacting to problems instead of creating possibilities.The conversation digs deep into the mindset shifts needed to break free from defensive, fear-based thinking. James Robert and Derik explore personal stories of transformation, the impact of strategic clarity, and how the most growth-bound institutions today are those with leaders willing to take bold, courageous action. They unpack why thriving starts with leading yourself—and how 10x thinking can unlock future-focused innovation that’s no longer optional.If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next step, this episode will challenge your perspective and offer a clear path forward: Think bigger. Lead bolder. Grow faster.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Traditional banks face tough competition from agile neobanks and fintechs. The importance of a digital-first approach is highlighted as a way for community institutions to thrive. Engaging younger customers and understanding generational perspectives can prevent obsolescence. The discussion emphasizes the need for balance between digital solutions and human interaction. As AI reshapes communication, financial institutions must adapt or risk losing relevance in the market. Listening to consumer demands is essential for innovation and growth.

Most financial brands are stuck saying the same things—“great rates, great service”—and it's costing them trust, growth, and relevance. In this episode, James Robert Lay and Derik Krauss dive into the dangerous trap of commoditization in financial services. They break down why it's happening, how it shows up in your marketing, and what to do about it. You’ll learn how to reframe your messaging around purpose, use empathy to guide digital journeys, and position your brand as a trusted guide—not just a product pusher. Drawing from the Digital Growth Blueprint and real-world examples, this conversation is your first step toward standing out in a sea of sameness.You can find this episode and many more by subscribing to Banking on Digital Growth on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Most financial brands are still designing websites for people. But the web’s changed—and fast.In this episode, Derik Krauss joins James Robert Lay to unpack why the real “visitors” to your site are no longer just humans, but AI agents like ChatGPT and Perplexity acting on their behalf. They explore what this means for discoverability, trust, and conversion in an age where the “Do-It-For-Me” economy is accelerating.You’ll learn how to start building an “agentic website” designed for both humans and machines—and why failing to adapt may render your brand invisible to the next generation of digital decision-makers.You can find this episode and many more by subscribing to Banking on Digital Growth on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.