Keeping It Local: Recent Episodes
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The Community Bank Difference is the gold standard for what it means to provide outstanding support to our communities. That’s why at First Federal Bank of Wisconsin, we are going outside of the products and services we provide to share with you the impact your neighbors are making in Southeastern Wisconsin. On the Keeping it Local podcast, we will be connecting you with local businesses, nonprofits, and community members who share unique perspectives that inspire and educate you on the Community Bank Difference.
Discover the impact of Habitat for Humanity in Waukesha County on the latest Keeping it Local Podcast episode. Host Richie Burke, along with guests Joe Bogenberger, Jim Tarantino, and Melissa Songco, explores the inspiring Dominica Park project—a unique collaboration addressing the community's need for affordable housing.
With 34 years of experience, Habitat for Humanity Waukesha County has built 55 homes, emphasizing simplicity, decency, and affordability through partnerships with volunteers and the community. The Dominica Park project, an 18-lot, 20-unit subdivision, stands out as a rare instance where a Habitat branch builds an entire subdivision, showcasing successful collaboration with First Federal Bank and Capri Communities.
Delve into the broader impact of affordable housing on community fabric, workforce recruitment, and family stability. Melissa Songco highlights various Habitat initiatives, including the ReStore and a repair program. Look ahead to Habitat's ambitious goals—building 20 homes, completing 30 repairs, and expanding into three communities annually by 2033.
The episode concludes with heartwarming stories illustrating the profound impact of Habitat's work on individuals and families. Subscribe to the Keeping it Local Podcast for more uplifting stories of community impact and consider getting involved through volunteering or contributing your expertise.
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Join host Richie Burke in this episode of the Keeping It Local podcast, powered by First Federal Bank, as industry experts Edward Schaefer, President & CEO at First Federal, Kirk Hovde, Managing Principal & Head of Investment Banking at Hovde Group, and John Reichert, Attorney at Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, delve into the ever-changing landscape of community banking.
Explore the challenges posed by regulatory changes, rising interest rates, and technological advancements. Discover insights on the importance of scale, the impact of mergers and acquisitions, and strategies for community banks to stay nimble and relevant in the face of evolving financial dynamics. Tune in for a deep dive into the future outlook and opportunities for community banks over the next five years.
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In this episode of the "Keeping It Local" podcast, powered by First Federal Bank, join host Richie Burke as he delves into the world of affordable banking and financial empowerment with special guests Constance Alberts, Director of Bank On Greater Milwaukee, Rick Beutler, VP of Consumer Banking at First Federal, and Anna Fragoso, Branch Manager at First Federal Bank.
Discover how Bank On and First Federal are creating stronger financial futures by ensuring everyone has access to safe and affordable banking services. Learn about the impact of programs like the Fresh Start checking account and the ITIN application process, along with the transformative power of financial literacy education. Hear inspiring success stories that highlight the positive changes brought about by financial inclusion, and find out how you can access these valuable services. Join us in the journey towards financial empowerment and inclusion for all.
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Website: https://www.firstfederalwisconsin.com/
Welcome to the Keeping It Local podcast, powered by First Federal Bank. In this episode, host Richie Burke explores the challenges and opportunities of buying and selling a business with Brian McManus, Chief Banking Officer at First Federal Bank, and two business owners, Kevin Seiberlich and Buddy Robinson, who recently acquired the manufacturer Fabricated Metal Products.
Kevin and Buddy discuss their journey of searching for the right business and the process they went through to acquire Fabricated Metal Products. They talk about the qualities they look for in a company and how they assess its potential for success. They emphasize the importance of tangible products, a strong balance sheet, dependable cash flow, and the integrity of the organization. The team also discusses the crucial role of assembling a professional team, including accountants, attorneys, brokers, and insurance agents, to ensure a successful transition.
Tune in to this insightful episode of the Keeping It Local podcast to gain valuable insights into the world of buying and selling businesses and learn from the experiences of Kevin Seiberlich and Buddy Robinson.
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Website: https://www.firstfederalwisconsin.com/
The Latino business community is one of the fastest-growing communities, but are they given equal opportunity? In this episode, we discuss what First Federal Bank, the Latino Chamber of Commerce, and the Latino Entrepreneurial Network are doing to ensure this community receives the same opportunities as other organizations.
Nelson Soler, CEO of the Latino Chamber of Commerce and Founder of the Latino Entrepreneurial Network, and Efrain Lara, CEO of Milwaukee Pallets and Lara Associates, join us to share their experiences.
We are working to combine passion with the necessary planning to create purpose and find success.
To say the pandemic impacted the economic environment is an understatement. As a result, the rise of interest rates is more prevalent than ever. Learn about the available resources and options to equip yourself best and prepare for the future.
In today’s episode, host Richie Burke sits down with Steve Wierschem, Chief Financial Officer at First Federal Bank of Wisconsin, and Marc Gall, Vice President, and Asset/Liability Strategist at BOK Financial. They’ll break down everything from where these rates are currently, where they’re heading, and how the current climate affects businesses and individuals.
Christine Specht, CEO of Cousins Subs, has worked at Cousins Subs for over 21 years and has learned a thing or two about managing a business along the way. In today’s episode, Christine shares some insight about managing a successful business: maintaining a strong company culture and developing a solid brand strategy.
Cousins Subs has been in the business of making great sandwiches for 50 years; however, running a successful business for five decades is about more than that. Christine discusses how Cousins Subs increased their average unit sales by 93%, being voted the Top Workplace by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel two years in a row, and the efforts Cousins Subs is making to rebrand and stay relevant in the year 2022.
When is it appropriate to become financially literate? A fair argument would be "before you make a detrimental financial mistake" though there is logic behind this, it isn't always realistic. Kids are taking, on average, 12 years of schooling before they're put out into the world to make their own financial decisions, and yet, teaching financial responsibility isn't standard in today's curriculum; because of that, SecureFutures set out to change the standard.
In today's episode, we're joined by the Founder of SecureFutures, Lloyd Levin, and the CEO and President, Brenda Campbell, to discuss SecureFutures' mission to Provide financial literacy programs and resources that empower students to make sound financial decisions.
We're building stronger communities by empowering teens with financial education, tools, and mentorship. They say, "An investment in teen financial capability is an investment in the future." So how can you invest today?
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world in many unexpected ways, and the banking world is no exception. Things have become increasingly digital, and banking has joined the list of tasks that are now done from home — meaning customers need fast, easy, and positive online experiences.
People are used to great apps that fit their ever-changing needs. So how does the banking world keep up? We’re glad you asked. Today, we’re joined by Patrick Dickson (SVP/Chief Research Analyst & Executive Strategist, Kasasa) and Rick Beutler (VP of Consumer Banking, First Federal Bank of Wisconsin) to talk about just that.
We’ll dive into changes in customer behaviors caused by the pandemic and how banks like ours have expanded to meet the increased demand for online services. We’ll also talk about the future of digital banking, and provide a few best practice tips for maximum security when banking online.
Although women have made great strides in the workplace, they’re still often under-represented — especially women of color. Women only hold 20% of board seats, make up 8% of Fortune 500 CEOs, receive 3% of all venture capital funding, and are 2 times more at-risk when it comes to job loss.
Yes, those are staggering statistics — but it’s not all bad, and things are trending up. There are now two times the amount of women entrepreneurs than there were in the 2000s, and there has been a 500% increase in the number of black women in business over the last two decades. And, although women only hold 20% of board seats in the US, that number is up 6% over the last few years.
Today, we’re joined by DeVona Wright Cottrell (Chief Legal Officer/General Counsel, GMR Marketing) and JoAnne Anton (Director of Giving, Herb Kohl Philanthropies), two absolutely brilliant female leaders in Wisconsin. They’re both on our board here at First Federal Bank of Wisconsin, a board that we can proudly say is 50% women.
Diversity is something that’s incredibly important to the business world — in this episode, we’ll talk with these two leaders about why that’s the case. We’ll also talk about how these two selfless individuals serve the community and the needs of Southeast Wisconsin, and why it’s so important to have women in leadership positions.
For most business owners, their business has become a part of them. It’s something they’ve worked tirelessly on for many years, and they’re often deeply entwined in the essential day-to-day operations. That can make it tough to part ways and keep things running smoothly when the time to sell finally comes around.
On today’s episode, we’ll be talking about how to ensure a seamless transition to retirement or your next venture.
So, how far ahead should you prepare for your sale? How do you maximize value? What kinds of professionals should be on your advisory team? What options are available when it’s time to sell?
We’re joined by experts Ronald English (Partner at Hippenmeyer, Reilly, Blum, Schmitzer, Fabian & English, S.C.), Meagan Rutkowski (Partner, CPA at Bull Moose Financial), and our own Brian McManus (Senior V.P. of Lending, First Federal Bank of Wisconsin) to answer these common questions and lend a few extra bits of wisdom.
Listen in, and you’ll be fully equipped to prepare an exit strategy, get top dollar for your business, and run through the finish line knowing you’ve preserved your legacy and set the next owner up for continued success.
When you look back at Milwaukee’s storied past, it’s hard to find a neighborhood more culturally rich than Mitchell Street. Once called “The downtown of Milwaukee’s South Side”, this area was predominantly inhabited by Polish immigrants, changing over the years to welcome a diverse Latino population as well. The Mitchell Street story is uplifting, and a true testament to how a community can evolve with and stay true to both its residents and its roots.
As you may have heard, First Federal Bank of Wisconsin recently acquired Mitchell Bank to expand our presence and serve more communities in the Milwaukee area. So on today’s episode, we’re here with a special ode to Historic Mitchell Street.
Joining us today is John Dye, owner of Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge, At Random, and The Jazz Estate, Jorge Lopez, owner of Lopez Bakery and Restaurant, and Ed Shaefer, the President and CEO at First Federal Bank. We’re truly honored that these valued community members are joining us on the podcast, and can’t wait to tell you the neighborhood’s story through the eyes of some great folks who have seen it across its many stages.
Financial planning can be a daunting task. It’s like going to the dentist — you may be scared to take initiative, but you know that if you can just muster up the courage to start, you’ll be much better off.
This week’s episode is focused on our college-aged audience. It’s about starting early and making the most of what you’ve got to make a big impact on your finances. We’ll discuss opening your first accounts, building credit, buying your first home, and so much more.
Experts Brian McManus (SVP of Lending, First Federal Bank of Wisconsin), Fernando Campos (Neighborhood Development Program, United Community Center), and Jeff Condit (Youth Programs Director, United Community Center) join to guide listeners and provide valuable insights.
When you’re in business, it’s easy to get caught up in the numbers. We live in an age where everything can be tracked, analyzed, and broken down, and communication — especially in the age of COVID — is now more digital than ever. Handshakes and friendly in-person meetings have fallen by the wayside, only to be replaced with email subject lines and Zoom calls.
Often, it’s easy to forget that there’s a person on the other side. But as all successful folks in business have learned one way or another, it’s that person on the other side that really matters. At the end of the day, business isn’t really about the numbers at all — it’s about people, and our relationships with them.
On today’s episode, host Richie Burke sits down with Brian McManus (Senior VP of Lending, First Federal Bank of Wisconsin), Jerry Couri (President, Couri Insurance Agency), and Adam Witkov (Partner, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP) to discuss the many ways in which their interpersonal relationships have shaped their business interactions over the years.
Tune in to this episode to gain insight on building relationships, hear inspiring stories about how personal connections have opened unexpected doors, and learn how to be someone others want to do business with.
Our military veterans give us so much, selflessly volunteering their precious time, energy, and strength to serve our country. Yet, when they return home from service, they’re often left feeling underappreciated and have to face difficult hardships. Reassimilating into normal life can be tough — whether it’s finding a fulfilling career, coping with PTSD, or just readjusting their state of mind, veterans and their families often feel like they’re going about it alone.
That’s where Operation Finally Home (OFH) comes in. Operation Finally Home is a program that provides custom-built homes for veterans and their families, giving that home to them mortgage-free. The program was specifically created for veterans who had their time in service cut short because of injury. This uplifting gift to our heroes and their families is a fantastic way to show that they’re truly cared for when they return home.
On this episode, we’ll talk to Michael Berry (VP of Treasury Management, First Federal Bank of Wisconsin) and David Belman (President, Belman Homes) about Operation Finally Home. You’ll learn about how OFH was started, the ways the community supports the program, the positive impacts it’s had on recipient families, and more.
We’re truly proud to partner with this organization, and hope you enjoy learning about the ways it makes a profound impact in our local community.
If you’re like most people, you rely on the internet for just about everything. Banking, streaming music, staying connected with friends and family, and so much more. And, if you’re like most people, you assume your data is fairly safe on the web — but is it?
With the recent boom in internet usage, we’re here to make sure you (and your data) stay safe. We’ve asked experts Mike Venaccio (VP Bank Technology Solutions, UFS), Amy Radue (Director of Risk Management, UFS), and Dan Loppnow (Information Technology Manager/Cybersecurity Officer, First Federal Bank) to hop on the mic and share some tips and tricks.
On today’s episode, we’ll discuss how to protect your data in a digital world, identify cyber risks (and how to mitigate them), give helpful tips for avoiding scams, and more.
If we had a nickel for every time someone asked us how to build a new home, we could probably afford to build it for them! On this episode, we’ll be talking about all things house construction, giving you tips and tricks for the whole process, start to finish.
To help us cross the t’s and dot the i’s, Richie is joined by David Belman, the President of Belman Homes, and Brian McManus, the Senior Vice President of Lending here at First Federal Bank of Wisconsin. Together, they’ll cover a slew of topics sure to alleviate stress before you dive into the world of home building.
You’ll learn how to get the ball rolling with your preferred builder and bank, whether or not you can stay in your current home while building your new one, how to know if building is the right route for you, and so much more.
You might not realize it, but banks are connected to your local community in more ways than you’d expect. People rely on banks to help them with big milestones: buying their first car, financing a home, and opening a business, to name a few.
When it’s time to get the ball rolling, the financial institution they choose matters not just for them, but for their neighbors, too. Organizations like credit unions and online national banks often seem like a good choice at first, but there’s one option that always puts the local community first: community banks.
But how are community banks different than other financial institutions? What services do they provide? And how do they give back to the local community? Well, we’re glad you asked!
On this week’s first-ever episode of the Keeping it Local Podcast, host Richie Burke sits down with Rose Oswald Poels, President and CEO of the Wisconsin Bankers Association, and Edward H. Schaefer, President and CEO of the First Federal Bank of Wisconsin, to answer all those questions and more.
They’ll dive deep into the importance of local banking, talk about how community banks give back, and help you understand the importance of the ‘decision-maker’ when you’re applying for a loan. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn a thing or two!
Hello, and welcome to Keeping It Local. On this introductory episode, you'll meet your host, Richie Burke, as he guides you through a preview of our first few episodes.
On Keeping It Local, or goal is to reach outside of the products and services we typically provide at First Federal Bank of Wisconsin to connect you with local businesses, nonprofits, and community members. You'll learn about the impact they're making in the community, and pick up a few financial insights along the way.
Thanks so much for tuning in, and if you like what you've heard on this episode, make sure to subscribe and check out what we've got coming next!