Banking on Digital Growth

Explore how AI is transforming the financial industry with practical strategies to capitalize on exponential growth opportunities. From optimizing conversions with digital growth tactics to enhancing user experience engineering, this episode offers valuable insights for financial brands navigating the age of AI.

Many individuals and organizations struggle with adaptability and transformation, hindering their growth and success.  In this episode of the Banking on Change series, James Robert Lay and Audrey Cannata discuss the challenges of stepping out of comfort zones, the pitfalls of self-limiting beliefs, and the difficulties involved in personal transformation. This episode provides strategies for overcoming these obstacles, such as embracing the Minimum Viable Product approach for rapid learning and iteration, understanding and leveraging different action modes within teams, and the importance of self-reflection and lifelong learning. They advise focusing on what's in your control, leading oneself first, and the continual pursuit of growth both personally and organizationally.Join us as we discuss:-The Journey of Writing and Personal Growth (06:52)-Preparing for Exponential Growth: A Deep Dive (14:18) -The Importance of Personal Growth in Organizational Transformation (18:17)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.

Financial stress and anxiety affects 85% of the population in the United States, influencing health, relationships, and overall well-being. This stress often stems from the burdens of financial expectations and how societal pressures and family narratives can lead individuals to wear financial masks, using money as a tool for external validation rather than a means for genuine fulfillment and security.In this episode of the Digital Leadership series, Audrey Cannata and James Robert Lay explore the concept of reframing one’s financial narrative. They advocate for integrating emotional aspects of money management into financial education and coaching, emphasizing the shift towards prioritizing intrinsic motivation. Their discussion includes practical advice on fostering a supportive environment for financial growth through understanding and emotional connection, both at a personal and institutional level.Join us as we discuss:-Unpacking Money Narratives and Beliefs (05:55) -The Journey Towards Financial Well-being (22:25) -The Role of Financial Coaching in Transformation (33:19) 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.

In the digital age, building and maintaining relationships, especially in the financial industry, is challenging. Many people struggle to keep up with the rapid pace of digital transformation, which can feel overwhelming and intimidating.In this episode of the Banking on Change series, James Robert outlines practical strategies for leveraging digital tools to build relationships and foster community engagement. He suggests using LinkedIn to connect with local community members, share valuable content, and engage with others' posts. The strategy is not just about promoting oneself but about contributing value, which in turn can help financial leaders become integral parts of their communities.Join us as we discuss:-Achieving Amazon Bestseller Status: A Team Effort (03:49) -The Power of Giving First in Digital Relationships (09:35) -Practical Steps for Cultivating Digital Relationships on LinkedIn (29:13) 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.

Entrepreneurs and financial professionals often struggle with a disconnect in communication and understanding. Financial advice typically follows a conventional path that doesn't align well with the dynamic, unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. This mismatch can lead to entrepreneurs feeling restricted, misunderstood, and poorly served by financial advisors who lack entrepreneurial experience.In this episode of the Exponential Insights series, Chad Willardson, founder and CEO of PACIFIC CAPITAL, and author of  "Wealth Wired Differently," joins the show offering insights tailored to the unique mindset and challenges of entrepreneurs, encouraging financial professionals to adapt their strategies to better serve this distinct group.Join us as we discuss:-The Entrepreneurial Mindset and Financial Advice (04:20) -Finding Your Niche in Financial Services (12:54) -Practical Advice for Community Financial Institutions (23:14)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.

"How can we effectively guide our long-standing staff, who are accustomed to outdated systems, to embrace the transformative potential of new technology and navigate the overwhelming task of prioritizing digital transformation initiatives amidst limited resources and a multitude of opportunities?"This is a very common question and one that was recently posed by Zach Eychaner, VP of Digital Experience at ELGA Credit Union. This disconnect can cause stagnation, inefficiencies, and friction in customer experience. And there’s often the overwhelming nature of prioritizing digital transformation initiatives amidst limited resources and a wide array of opportunities.The solution? James Robert suggests focusing on belief systems and growth mindsets, which can shift from fixed to adaptable. By encouraging exploration, embracing challenges, and nurturing collaboration, financial institutions can transform not only their internal culture but also positively impact their clients' financial wellbeing.Join us as we discuss:-Navigating Digital Transformation Challenges (03:23) -Strategies for Leading Digital Experience and Growth (06:24) -Fostering a Growth Mindset for Future Success (15:15)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.

Many financial brands struggle with losing loans and deposits due to not fullyunderstanding the customers' online journey. This lack of insight into the real-time userexperience often results in websites that fail to meet potential customers' needs,leading to poor conversion rates and lost opportunities. Without deep insights into howreal users navigate and feel about their websites, financial brands can inadvertentlycreate experiences that are confusing, frustrating, or disconnected from userexpectations.In this episode of the Practical Perspective series "Banking on Digital Growth" podcast,James Robert Lay and Audrey Cannata discuss key findings from a recent websitesecret shopping study aimed at a financial brand. They explore the importance ofunderstanding the emotional journey of customers through practical, real-time insightsthat can drastically improve website optimization.Join us as we discuss:-Philosophical Perspectives on Digital Banking (07:51) -Optimizing the Checking Account Shopping Experience (18:55) -Leveraging Community and Human Touch in Digital Banking (32:05)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.

This episode of the Banking on Change series explores the concept of courage and the importance of mindset in facing exponential change. Drawing from personal experiences and historical examples, James Robert Lay discusses the challenges of adapting to rapid transformation, especially in the context of emerging technologies like AI.The need for individuals to cultivate a growth-oriented mindset, emphasizes the role of perspective, beliefs, emotions, and habits in navigating change. By understanding the philosophical foundations and practical tools for achieving exponential growth, listeners gain insights into how to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.Tune in to explore how courage, mindset, and continuous learning can empower individuals to embrace change and seize new opportunities for growth in the digital age.Join us as we discuss:-The Impact of AI on Future Growth and Transformation (09:13) -Historical Moments of Exponential Change (12:58) -The Evolution of Technology and Its Impact on Society (20:45)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.

The rapid advancement of AI and digital technologies has ushered in significant changes, challenging individuals and organizations to adapt swiftly. Because of this, many people find themselves trapped in the Cave of Complacency,  resisting the change necessary to keep pace with technological advancements.In this inaugural episode of the Banking on Change series, James Robert Lay gives us a behind the scenes look at the making of his latest book, Banking on Change: The Leader’s Guide to Achieving Exponential Growth in the Age of AI, which provides insights and strategies to help individuals and organizations navigate the complexities of change in the age of AI. The book encourages leading oneself through personal growth and transformation to effectively manage and benefit from the changes AI brings.Join us as we discuss:-The Journey of Publishing 'Banking on Change' (04:16) -The Power of Perspective and Exponential Growth (24:29) -Mastering Technology and the Mind in the Age of AI (36:44)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.

Despite recognizing the importance of communication, there's a growing disconnect between the traditional role of the CMO and the demands of the modern marketing landscape. Many marketing teams are losing sight of the deeper rationale driving their actions. While communication remains central to marketing, there's a danger of overlooking the underlying "why" behind it. CMOs and marketing teams are getting caught up in the technicalities and channels of marketing without fully understanding the purpose behind their efforts.To address this issue, CMOs and marketing teams must re-evaluate their approach and reconnect with the fundamental purpose of their work. By understanding the "why" behind their communication efforts, they can effectively navigate the complexities of modern marketing and drive meaningful results for their organizations.Join us as we discuss:-Understanding Marketing Beyond Ads (03:02) -Marketing in the Age of AI: Challenges and Opportunities (09:49) -The Essential Skills for Tomorrow's CMOs (33:13) 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.