This special episode brings together a powerhouse panel of industry experts to tackle the existential challenges facing community financial institutions (CFIs) today. In a banking environment shaped by market pressures, rapid technology disruption, evolving regulations, and shifting customer expectations, survival is far from guaranteed.

Moderator Curt Hecker, CEO & Executive Chairman of PCBB, leads a dynamic conversation with Gary Steven Findley, Esq., President of Gary Steven Findley & Associates; Aaron Donaldson, Financial Institutions Consulting Co-leader and Principal with RSM; and John Pietrzak, President and CEO of Devrai Capital. Together, they share practical strategies CFI leaders can put to work immediately — covering capital planning, board effectiveness, technology adoption, AI readiness, and more.

These insights are not just future-focused — they address what every CFI executive and director should act on now to ensure long-term relevance and resilience. This episode intentionally runs longer than usual, reflecting the depth and urgency of the topics discussed. To make it easy for listeners to dive in, chapters have been included for quick navigation. Listeners can choose the segments most relevant to their role or revisit critical advice.

The length, structure, and caliber of voices in this discussion make it an invaluable resource for anyone committed to shaping the future of community banking.

MODERATOR:
Curt Hecker
CEO & Executive Chairman
PCBB
PANELISTS:
Gary Steven Findley, Esq.
President
Gary Steven Findley & Associates
Aaron Donaldson
Financial Institutions Consulting Co-leader and Principal
RSM US LLP
John Pietrzak
President and CEO
Devrai Capital