The Community Bank Podcast

Today we're joined by Bill Moreland, a credit risk expert whose data and analysis we rely on heavily. Bill helps us break down what's really happening beneath the surface of today's credit metrics — from the rise of NDFIs to the surge in loan modifications and what that signals about risk in this cycle. View Agenda & Register for The Elevate Banking Forum View Agenda & Register for The Deposit Conference The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today, Tom Fitzgerald, from our strategy and research group interviews our asset-liability manager, Billy Fielding, from our broker dealer SouthState Securities to discuss the latest trends and asset liability management. Click Here to Subscribe to Tom's Weekly Piece - The Friday Five The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today Tom Fitzgerald and Joe Keating discuss the current global landscape, including ongoing U.S. politics, developments in the Fed, and the ongoing war with Iran. They tie it all back to how they impact the economy and one's investments. Register for The Elevate Banking Forum: https://southstatecorrespondent.com/the-2026-elevate-banking-forum/ Register for The Deposit Conference: https://southstatecorrespondent.com/the-2026-deposit-conference/ The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC SouthState Wealth is a trade name (doing business as) of SouthState Private Capital Management LLC ("SSPCM"). SouthState Wealth represents the collective wealth management departments and subsidiaries of SouthState Bank, N.A. The following content is for informational purposes only. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank, N.A., its employees, or its affiliates. No portion of this content serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from SouthState Wealth. Securities involve investment risks, including possible loss of principal. Investment products and services are not bank deposits, nor are they insured, and are not backed or guaranteed by SouthState Bank, N.A. or its affiliates.

In this episode, Caleb Stevens sits down with author and speaker Jon Acuff to talk about where procrastination shows up most often in the business world—and why even high-performing leaders struggle with it. Jon shares practical strategies from his latest book, Procrastination Proof, to help you stop putting off important work and start making meaningful progress. If you've ever delayed a tough conversation, a new initiative, or a big decision, this conversation will give you tools to move forward. Click Here to View Agenda and Register for the Elevate Banking Forum Click Here to View Agenda and Register for the Deposit Conference The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we have the privilege of welcoming back our very first podcast guest, Billy Boughey. Billy is the founder of Elevate Experiences, a company that creates unforgettable corporate events and experiences. Billy talks about the 3 keys to a remarkable event, casting vision for your company, and the importance of courage and taking ownership. Coach Dabo Swiney Quote that Billy Referenced: "Sight is a function of the eye, but vision is a function of the heart." Learn About Elevate Experiences: https://elevateexperiences.com/ Book Billy to Speak: https://www.billybspeaks.com/ The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we're joined by two of our fellow SouthState team members — Shellee Spagnoletto and Jake Schoolfield. They talk about the Private Banking line of business we have here at SouthState and some of the keys any community banks can learn as they build their own. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we speak with Karan Bhalla, Founder and CEO of AiVantage. He tells us about how banks can utilize AI to personalize their marketing efforts and, in turn, deepen client relationships. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we sit down with Ballard Cassady, CEO of the Kentucky Bankers Association. Ballard shares the unique perspective a banking association must keep while navigating the evolving banking landscape. He tells us about his lobbying efforts, his thoughts on AI, how stablecoin will impact the industry, and what community banks do best. Learn more about The ARC Program here! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we sit down with Dan Odom, President and CEO of Western Bank out in Lubbock, Texas. He discusses the history of his family-owned community bank and how he has developed it over the last decade. He tells us about his community profile, his thoughts on talent development, and the challenges and opportunities he faces in west Texas. Learn more about The ARC Program here! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today on the show Caleb and Chris talk about one of Chris' recent blog articles, What a F1 Pit Crew Can Teach Banking — Performance as a System. Read the full blog article here: https://southstatecorrespondent.com/banker-to-banker/bank-performance/what-a-f1-pit-crew-can-teach-banking-performance-as-a-system/ The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

In today's show, Caleb and Chris delve into some of the top marketing tactics and frameworks we utilize at SouthState's Correspondent Division. They also explore how community banks can adopt these strategies to effectively capture the attention of their most promising prospects. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today Chris Nichols sits down with Ryan Zacharia and Adam Aspes, partners at FINTOP. Returning after four years from their last appearance on our show, they discuss tokenization, AI, and the digital transformations banks are undergoing in an era of evolving technology. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today Joe Keating joins Tom Fitzgerald to reflect on where we left off in 2025 and discuss the economic outlook for 2026. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we kick off 2026 by bringing back our friend Jeff Hancher to discuss the 3 types of feedback great leaders give to their teams. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

For our final show of 2025, we take a look back at some of our favorite episodes of the year. Thanks for listening! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we sit down with Anton Schutz, President and Founder of Mendon Capital. As an investor, he has a unique perspective on trends shaping community banks. We discuss what surprised him in 2025 within the banking landscape, M&A, credit outlooks, and other topics you should be paying attention to as we near 2026. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we talk with Carey Ransom, founder of BankTech Ventures. We discuss what success for fintechs looks like and which tech investments are improving overhead efficiency. He also tells us where banks are hesitant with AI and where banks can get started with it. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we sit down with Ron Shevlin of Cornerstone Advisors. He tells us all about the forces that are "squeezing" community banks out of existence. Ron also shares what to focus on so your bank can thrive and succeed in the longterm. Check out our Ebook on loan hedging here! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we sit down with Frank Trotter, CEO of Battle Bank. We talk about his background with EverBank, how he raised $100 million in capital to start Battle Bank, and how to build a bank based on "mindset" not geography. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we sit down with Tim Elmore, founder of Growing Leaders, an Atlanta‐based non‐profit organization created to develop emerging leaders. Gen Z has joined the workforce, and effective leadership is looking different as a result. Tim Elmore tells us how to bridge the generational gap to better lead a generation unlike any we've seen before. Download your free copy of the "Hedging for Community Banks" Ebook here. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we feature another backstage conversation from the 2025 Elevate Banking Forum with David Salyers, retired Chick-fil-A executive and SouthState board member. We talk about his journey to Chick-fil-A and the principles that give the company a competitive edge. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today Chris Nichols sits down with Steven Ramirez from Beyond the Arc to discuss their thoughts on Money 20/20. They talk about stablecoin, fraud, AI, and several other topics that banks should be thinking on as we move into 2026. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we feature a backstage conversation recorded on October 28th at the 2025 Elevate Banking Forum. Tom Fitzgerald from SouthState sits down with Dr. Elliot Eisenberg to discuss the current state of the U.S. Economy. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

In this episode, Chris Nichols sits down with Gwen Wertz, SVP of Retail Banking at Provident Bank, to discuss how her team drives deposit growth and manages funding costs in a competitive environment. Gwen shares practical insights from her experience leading deposit strategy meetings, building a culture of collaboration, and balancing acquisition with retention. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today, Chris Nichols sits down with Alex Johnson, author of popular newsletter Fintech Takes. They discuss the importance of Stablecoin as it's related to the banking industry and why community banks should pay attention to it. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we're joined by Mac Thompson, founder and CEO of White Clay, a company helping banks use data to drive smarter, more profitable decisions. We talk about whether banking is getting easier or harder, what the data says about the current state of the industry, and how banks can sell more profitable products to more profitable customers. Mac also shares common mistakes banks make, what community banks are doing well, and how institutions can become the primary financial relationship for their customers. Get your copy of our free Loan Hedging Ebook here! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today Chris Nichols sit down with Subodh Mathur to talk about his work with India's UPI system and what American banks can learn. Subodh Kumar Mathur, Strategic Advisor to Amberoon, brings deep expertise in public financial management and national-scale digital ecosystems. A retired Additional Controller General of Accounts from India's Ministry of Finance, he led the creation of India's Public Financial Management System (PFMS), which handles over 3 billion transactions annually. His experience in building trusted, integrated systems informs Amberoon's deployment of the Manatoko ID platform. Mr. Mathur also advises the IMF and World Bank, enhancing Amberoon's global capabilities in modernizing public financial systems. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

In this episode, Caleb sits down with J.R. Lay—entrepreneur, bestselling author, and founder of Level Up Business—to explore how community banks can deepen relationships and drive growth through authentic communication. They discuss the power of personal branding, the role of video and content in building trust, and why helping first is the key to long-term success. J.R. also shares his "Five Cs" framework for connecting with entrepreneurs and creating meaningful community impact. If you're a bank leader looking to grow your influence and relevance, this episode is for you. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today Tom Fitzgerald sits down with Brian Barker, Chief Investment Officer here at SouthState Bank. They talk about the recent rate cut by the Fed and what it means for the economy and community banks. REGISTER FOR THE ELEVATE BANKING FORUM The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC SouthState Wealth represents the collective departments and subsidiaries of SouthState Bank, N.A. that provide wealth management services. Products and services are not bank deposits, nor are they insured, and are not backed or guaranteed by SouthState Bank, N.A. or its affiliates. Securities involve investments risks, including possible loss of principal.

Today Erik Bagwell and Caleb Stevens talk about 3 ways your bank can take its marketing to the next level. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we sit down with our own James Tippit, EVP and Director of Team Development here at SouthState. We discuss the term "Team of Teams" coined by General Stanley McChrystal and how it can be implemented at your bank to improve collaboration, communication, and organizational effectiveness. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we sit down with Will Bryant, Co-Founder of Quantalytix. We discuss how your bank can build a strategy to get the most of your institution's data. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. – Member FDIC

Today we bring on Will Tumulty, CEO of Rapid Finance. He talks to us about how community banks can update their technology roadmaps to enhance their small business lending. Learn more and register for Elevate here. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we talk with Greg Adelson, CEO of Jack Henry. We dive into technology, AI, cybersecurity, open banking, and several other topics in depth. These are all topics community banks should consider when looking at their technology roadmaps. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today our own Chris Nichols sits down with Jaye Eubanks from United Bank in Georgia. Jaye shares how he and his team use the "EOS" operating system to increase team productivity and performance. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we talk with Christian Ruppe, Chief Innovation Officer of Colony Bank in Georgia. Christian talks about the strategic technology and innovation initiatives Colony has invested in to continue serving their customers with excellence. VIEW AGENDA AND REGISTER FOR THE ELEVATE BANKING FORUM HERE The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today Chris Nichols sits down with Matt Quale, who serves as President of Digital Banking at Forbright Bank. He has decades of experience in consumer experience, technology, and financial services, having held leadership roles at Texas Capital Bank, Bask Bank, Brighthouse Financial, MetLife, American Express, WebMD, McKinsey, ConAgra, Coca-Cola, and General Mills. Chris and Matt dive into the methodology behind creating a high-performing digital strategy through technology, marketing, and traditional bank strategy. REQUEST YOUR SPOT FOR OUR COMMUNITY BANK SUMMER PERFORMANCE SERIES HERE The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. – Member FDIC

Today we bring on Owen LaFave, Market President at the Bank of Tampa. He tells us all about how he uses LinkedIn to create value for himself and his bank. Owen's advice in today's episode could inform your LinkedIn strategy to create value for your clients and to meet new prospects. Learn more about The ARC Program here. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today SouthState's own Mark Thompson, Banking Group President of Florida, joins us. With over 40 years of banking experience, he shares a wealth of knowledge with us. We discuss the current landscape for commercial lending, what to look for when hiring commercial lenders, and how to keep the "small feel" in a growing bank. Learn more about Loan Command here. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today we bring back Sim Cheema, who works on our ARC Team here at SouthState. We talk about the current Fed policy, the economic environment, and what all that means for you and your lenders at your bank. Learn more about ARC here. Learn more about the Community Bank Summer Performance Series here. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today our own Chris Nichols sits down with Nathan Stovall from S&P Global Market Intelligence. They discuss current trends in the banking industry including the outlook for deposit growth and costs, the forecast for credit quality, bank M&A, regulation, and many other great topics. Learn more about The Deposit Conference! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. – Member FDIC

Today we sit down with William Warren, Founder of The Sketch Effect — a visual communications agency that works with brands like Chick-fil-A and Delta Airlines. William talks about the importance of visual storytelling, why it's so overlooked in the business world, and how to inspire and lead the creatives on your team. REQUEST YOUR SPOT FOR OUR COMMUNITY BANK SUMMER PERFORMANCE SERIES HERE The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC

Today our own Chris Nichols sits down with Raphael Reznek, Chief Technology Officer of Mascoma Bank. They discuss bank architecture and focus on leveraging technology to your bank's benefit in the current, evolving world around AI. Learn more about and register for Elevate here! The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. – Member FDIC

Today we feature an internal conversation with Curtis Campbell, SouthState Bank's Director of Cybersecurity Training and Education. She discusses the importance of having a plan for cybersecurity and ensuring that your bank's team members are well-equipped to defend against cyber threats. LEARN MORE ABOUT ELEVATE HERE. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. – Member FDIC

Today Tom Fitzgerald sits down with series regular Joe Keating. They discuss the latest trends in the current economy and the outlook for interest rates. LEARN MORE ABOUT ELEVATE HERE. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. – Member FDIC