What's Going On In Banking: Recent Episodes
Ron Shevlin
What's Going On In Banking brings you the latest in Banking, Finance, and Fintech with insights and commentary from industry leaders breaking news as it happens. Host Ron Shevlin is the Chief Research Officer for Cornerstone Advisors, Forbes Contributor, and author of the "What's Going On In Banking" Annual Report.
Halfway through 2026, banking’s favorite buzzwords are still buzzing, but the numbers are starting to tell a less flattering story.
Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant revisit the industry’s biggest predictions and dig into what’s actually happened. Fintechs are eating the checking account, stablecoins are creating awkward boardroom questions, and the much-promised “AI plumbing” has finally arrived. They also unpack why Chase’s branch expansion may have less to do with retail banking than the headlines suggest, why trust alone won’t save community institutions, and why being well-liked is a lot like being broccoli: admirable, but not necessarily anyone’s first choice.
From product strategy and small business lending to the technology investments banks keep avoiding, this is a mid-year reality check packed with data, detours, and plenty of side-eye.
Show Notes:
- Don't Fall for the Branch Hype: Chase Didn't Build Those Branches for Retail Banking
- What’s Going On in Banking: A Mid-Year Review
- 2026 "What's Going on in Banking" Report
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfUYX
Download the 2026 "What's Going on in Banking" Report here:
https://qrco.de/bgmHtr
Chapters
[00:00] Stacey Goes Back to the Banking Hood
[03:25] The Mid-Year Review Ron Avoided for 11 Years
[04:29] What Bank Executives Expected From 2026
[06:18] The Economy Drifts and AI Plumbing Arrives
[08:07] Fintech Is Eating the Checking Account
[09:42] Why Product Architecture Is Winning
[10:42] Stablecoins and Mega-Bank Theater
[14:03] The Real Threat Is Product Displacement
[16:28] Does Every Bank Need a Chief Product Officer?
[18:26] What Chase’s Branch Expansion Really Means
[21:16] Trust, Broccoli and the 40% Myth
[24:56] Small Business Banking: Trust vs. Speed
[26:40] Why Fintechs Are Winning the Daily Relationship
[29:53] Pre-Building Gets Bumped to the Next Episode
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
This week on What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant somehow connect Knicks parade chaos, a questionable trash can decision, JPMorgan Chase, rewards gaps, and SoFi’s move into small business lending.
Stacey is still on a Knicks high. Ron is trying to bring everyone back to reality. Together, they debate whether a JPMorgan Chase employee deserved to be fired, why rewards programs may be banking’s version of a gym membership, and whether SoFi’s latest move should have community banks and credit unions sweating.
Trash cans were stolen. Rewards went unused. SoFi entered the chat. Just another normal week in banking!
Show Notes:
- Woman who emptied Knicks trashcan on street — then stole it — is fired from JPMorgan Chase, was DEI exec
- The Gym Membership Problem Just Ate Your Debit and Credit Card Rewards Programs
- SoFi enters small-business loan market
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfUYX
Download the 2026 "What's Going on in Banking" Report here:
https://qrco.de/bgmHtr
Chapters
[0:00] Welcome Back to What’s Going On in Banking
[2:08] The Knicks Finally Win and Stacey Is Not Over It
[3:01] The Trash Can Incident That Became a Banking Story
[5:20] Was JPMorgan Chase Right to Fire Her?
[8:05] Stacey Puts on Her HR Hat
[9:24] The Gym Membership Problem in Rewards Programs
[12:46] Are Banks Profiting From Customer Inertia?
[15:20] AI, 1033, and the Future of Product Recommendations
[17:20] Advocacy-Based Value vs. Acquisition-Based Value
[21:31] SoFi Enters Small Business Lending
[23:31] The Gray Zone Between Consumers and Businesses
[25:00] Stacey Pushes Back: Relationship Depth Still Matters
[29:12] Can Community Banks Really Beat SoFi on Depth?
[30:16] The SoFi Data Advantage
[32:43] How Banks Can Use Data to Fight Back
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
The Knicks finally gave New York manners, Chase got wildly misquoted, and banks are still out here pretending branches are the main character. Stacey Bryant and Ron Shevlin break down what JPMorgan Chase’s branch expansion is actually about, why community banks should stop copy-pasting big bank strategy, and why zillennials might be the investment opportunity financial institutions keep missing while they argue about checking accounts like it’s 2009.
Also, Ron officially hates the term “white paper,” so please update your records accordingly.
Show Notes:
- Don't Fall for the Branch Hype: Chase Didn't Build Those Branches for Retail Banking
- The Zillennial Opportunity: Credit Unions’ Traditional Investing Imperative in the Crypto Age
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfUYX
Download the 2026 "What's Going on in Banking" Report here:
https://qrco.de/bgmHtr
Chapters
[0:00] Welcome: New Orleans, Conferences & Banker Concerns
[4:37] Fiserv’s Agent OS Enters the AI Agent Race
[8:07] What “Agentic AI” Actually Means
[10:26] Operating System or Orchestration Layer?
[12:13] Commercial Lending & AML: The First AI Agent Use Cases
[15:50] How AI Could Change Commercial Lending
[19:20] Bringing AI Skeptics Along
[22:00] The AI Capability Continuum
[23:42] When AI Should Act Autonomously
[25:08] Culture, Risk & the Future Banking Workforce
[27:31] Why Bank Leaders Can’t Ignore AI Decisions
[31:04] OpenAI + Plaid: ChatGPT Enters Personal Finance
[33:03] Why Ron Is Skeptical of AI Financial Advice
[37:20] Small Business AI Adoption & Customer Behavior
[40:59] Advice vs. Execution: Where AI Finance Gets Valuable
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
What are the headlines getting wrong about banking right now? In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant take on three big debates: whether Gen Z belongs in the boardroom, why AI executive clones may be more illusion than innovation, and why SoFi’s stablecoin story is really about Galileo’s B2B infrastructure play, not just consumer crypto hype.
From credit union branding and board diversity to executive judgment, authenticity, tokenized money, and stablecoin strategy, this episode cuts through the surface-level takes and gets to what financial institutions should actually be paying attention to.
Subscribe for more candid, sharp, and occasionally spicy conversations on what’s really going on in banking.
Show Notes:
- AI Clones in the C-Suite: A Productivity Solution to the Wrong Problem
- SoFiUSD Is the Bait, Galileo Is the Hook
- Ron's Substack Account
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:https://qrco.de/bgfUYX
Download the 2026 "What's Going on in Banking" Report here:crnrstone.com/wgoib2026
Chapters
[0:00] Intro: Knicks Energy, Boston Betrayal & Banking Banter
[3:24] Stacey’s Conference Aha Moment
[4:08] A Gen Z Board Member at a $2B Credit Union
[5:44] Should Credit Unions Drop the “Credit Union” Name?
[6:39] Ron’s Pushback: Gen Z Isn’t a Board Strategy
[9:30] Representation vs. Real Board Expertise
[11:46] Diversity of Thought or Market Research?
[13:25] Ron’s Substack Era Begins
[14:32] AI Clones in the C-Suite
[16:20] Why AI Can’t Replace Executive Judgment
[17:10] Authenticity, Trust & the “Real Slim Shady” Test
[20:20] When AI Clones Actually Make Sense
[24:20] SoFi’s Stablecoin Story: The Headlines Got It Wrong
[26:20] Why Galileo Is the Real Stablecoin Play
[28:21] Stablecoin Strategy: Rails, Role & Reach
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant are back with a conversation on AI agents, vendor hype, and what banks actually need to solve before adding another layer to the tech stack.
They start with Fiserv’s Agent OS and the broader AI agent race in banking, including where tools like this may fit, where the wording gets fuzzy, and why commercial lending and AML look like early proving grounds. From there, they get into the harder part: getting boards, executives, and teams comfortable with AI without pretending it is either magic or a threat to every job.
The episode closes with OpenAI and Plaid’s move into personal finance inside ChatGPT, and whether AI powered advice has real value without the ability to take action for customers.
Subscribe for practical, skeptical, and occasionally spicy conversations on what is actually going on in banking.
Show Notes:
- For Small Banks in AI, Here's How to Bring Skeptics Along
- The AI Agent Race in Banking: Fiserv Steps Up To The Starting Line With agentOS
- OpenAI Wants to Help With Your Finances. It Wants Your $100/Month Even More
Subscribe to the "What's Going On In Banking" podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfUYX
Download the 2026 "What's Going on in Banking" Report here:
crnrstone.com/wgoib2026
Chapters
[0:00] Welcome: New Orleans, Conferences & Banker Concerns
[4:37] Fiserv’s Agent OS Enters the AI Agent Race
[8:07] What “Agentic AI” Actually Means
[10:26] Operating System or Orchestration Layer?
[12:13] Commercial Lending & AML: The First AI Agent Use Cases
[15:50] How AI Could Change Commercial Lending
[19:20] Bringing AI Skeptics Along
[22:00] The AI Capability Continuum
[23:42] When AI Should Act Autonomously
[25:08] Culture, Risk & the Future Banking Workforce
[27:31] Why Bank Leaders Can’t Ignore AI Decisions
[31:04] OpenAI + Plaid: ChatGPT Enters Personal Finance
[33:03] Why Ron Is Skeptical of AI Financial Advice
[37:20] Small Business AI Adoption & Customer Behavior
[40:59] Advice vs. Execution: Where AI Finance Gets Valuable
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
A bank CEO used an AI clone on an earnings call…and that was just the start.
Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant get into what AI agents could actually mean for banking, from back-office automation and decision-making to governance, blockchain, and why most banks are still asking the wrong questions about AI.
Real talk on where the industry is headed and what community banks should actually be paying attention to.
Show Notes:
- This bank CEO let his AI clone handle an earnings call — now he's signing an OpenAI deal
- Agents are starting to operate real systems — who’s actually in control?
- Ron's Substack
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:https://qrco.de/bgfUYX
Chapters
[00:00] Intro + Banking Conference Talk
[02:22] Bank CEO Uses AI Clone on Earnings Call
[03:39] Ron’s Take on the OpenAI Deal
[06:05] Governance & Compliance Concerns
[07:06] The Bigger Conversation Around AI Agents
[08:14] “Who’s Actually Controlling the AI?”
[10:03] AI Identity, Blockchain & “Know Your Agent”
[12:28] Stablecoins, Payments & AI Agents at Scale
[13:43] Why Banks May Be Overthinking AI Risk
[15:25] AI Agents Won’t Start With Payments
[17:13] The REAL Strategic Question for Banks
[18:28] AI’s Biggest Advantage: Speed
[20:09] Cost, Change Management & Operational Risk
[22:08] Stacey’s Argument for Blockchain in Banking
[25:12] Ron: “Don’t Invest in Blockchain”
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
"Wait and see” might be the most expensive strategy in banking right now.
In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant unpack the real implications behind Jamie Dimon’s comments and why AI, tokenization, and shifting customer behavior are forcing banks to make decisions now, not later.
They break down the three battles banks are actually fighting: where to invest (branches vs. digital), who owns the customer relationship, and why deposits are becoming more volatile than ever. Along the way, they challenge the idea of “core” customers, call out the slow erosion happening to bank relationships, and explain why most personalization efforts still miss the mark.
This isn’t about what’s coming next…it’s about what’s already happening.
What’s Going On in Banking Post of the Month — How Selection Works:
We’re watching 👀!! The WGOIB team highlights the sharpest, spiciest takes we see each month, no formal submissions needed.
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Chapters:
[00:00] Intro & Financial Brand Forum recap
[07:00] Are bank branches still worth it?
[10:45] “Every budget is a confession”
[15:00] The shift from branches to digital investment
[20:30] The real deposit war begins
[22:30] Fintechs are winning new accounts
[24:30] Why “core deposits” are dead
[26:30] The slow bleed of customer relationships
[30:00] Why personalization has failed banks
[31:30] AI changes the game for personalization
[33:00] Trust vs. privacy in AI
[34:30] From product offers to product design
[36:00] What real personalization actually looks like
[38:30] Where banks go wrong next
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Jamie Dimon just said the quiet part out loud, and the rest of the industry should be paying attention.
In this WGOIB episode, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant break down the real implications behind the headlines: why AI is no longer a “nice to have,” how tokenization is quietly reshaping financial infrastructure, and why the wait-and-see approach in banking is officially dead.
From cost-cutting vs. true differentiation, to the illusion of competitive advantage in tech, Ron and Stacey challenge how banks, especially community institutions, should be thinking about the future.
Because the biggest risk right now? Standing still.
Show Notes
- Can AI Kill Banking Bureaucracy?
- Jamie Dimon’s Letter To Shareholders: The Most Important Fintech Memo Of 2026
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Chapters
[00:00] Jamie Dimon’s warning to banks
[02:10] Why “wait and see” is no longer an option
[04:35] AI is becoming core infrastructure
[07:15] The myth of competitive advantage in tech
[10:05] Why every bank ends up with the same tools
[12:40] AI: cost cutter or true differentiator?
[15:20] Inside the “plumbing” of modern banking
[18:10] Tokenization and what it really changes
[21:05] Where community banks can actually win
[24:30] The danger of playing catch-up
[27:15] What smart banks should be doing right now
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Stablecoins aren’t a “crypto side quest” anymore—they’re becoming core financial infrastructure.
In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant break down Mastercard’s $1.8B bet on stablecoin infrastructure, why deposits may be more mobile than ever, and what banks are getting completely wrong.
They also dive into:
- Why waiting on stablecoins could be a fatal mistake
- How tokenization could reshape payments (and profits)
- The real risk behind “we’re monitoring it” strategies
- And what Revolut needs to do to actually win in the U.S.
Bottom line: the industry is changing fast and not everyone is ready.
Show Notes:
- Stablecoins: What Community Banks Need To Know And Do Now
- What Revolut Needs To Do To Succeed In The US
- Mastercard us | Mastercard to acquire BVNK to connect on-chain payments and fiat rails
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Chapters
00:00] Intro + Stacey’s conference recap
[02:30] Why banks are still stuck on AI adoption
[04:00] Inside the On-Chain conference (what stood out)
[06:00] “You can’t sit this out” — stablecoin urgency
[08:30] Mastercard’s $1.8B acquisition breakdown
[11:00] Stablecoins = real infrastructure, not crypto hype
[13:30] Are banks outsourcing their future to Mastercard?
[16:00] Optimistic vs realistic vs pessimistic takes
[18:30] $6.6T in deposits at risk (“deposits that walk”)
[23:00] Revolut enters the U.S. — opportunity or overhyped?
[25:30] The “Cheesecake Factory” problem in fintech
[29:30] The future: do we even need banking apps anymore?
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
We’re live and in person (from the “island of New Jersey” 😆) after Credit Union GAC and ahead of the New Jersey Bankers conference. And we’re breaking down the biggest banking and fintech headlines that actually matter.
Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant unpack:
- Why the mood at GAC was optimistic… with real undercurrents of concern
- Kraken’s banking arm getting direct access to the Fed’s payment rails, and what that signals for banks
- Why “waiting for regulatory clarity” on stablecoin doesn’t fly anymore (and why it’s now do-or-die)
- The private credit wake-up call for public bank stocks
- Block’s massive layoffs and the “AI did it” narrative (spoiler: we’re not buying it)
- What AI agents can do today, what they can’t, and why “human-in-the-loop” is often misunderstood
- Why bankers are uneasy about using agents for fraud, and what needs to change
- The real takeaway from a credit union CEO saying “our members aren’t asking for stablecoin”
If you’re in banking, credit unions, fintech, or payments…this episode is a fast, honest reality check on what’s coming next and how to prepare.
Show Notes:
- Block Lays Off 40% Of Staff And Blames It On AI. Don’t Buy The Excuse.
- 2026 What's Going On In Banking Industry Report
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Chapters
[0:00] Live from “New Jersey Island” + GAC recap
[1:48] Optimism at GAC… and the regulatory undercurrent
[4:19] Kraken gets Fed access: why banks should pay attention
[5:10] “Crypto isn’t a threat?” The wake-up call
[6:41] Stablecoin: “regulatory clarity” is no longer an excuse
[7:23] Big banks, credit quality, and the private credit threat
[8:19] Block layoffs: the “AI made us do it” claim
[12:06] Klarna vs Affirm: a real-world agent experience
[18:05] AI agents in fraud: why 40% aren’t comfortable
[27:08] “Members aren’t asking for stablecoin” (and why that’s the wrong lens)
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Capital One buys Brex for $5B.
Goldman Sachs builds AI agents with Anthropic.
MrBeast acquires a fintech.
This isn’t a headline mashup — it’s what’s happening in banking right now.
In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant break down the biggest moves reshaping financial services — and what they mean for banks and credit unions without megabank budgets.
Inside the conversation:
- What the Capital One + Brex deal signals for SMB banking
- Why Goldman’s AI “digital coworkers” change the build vs. buy debate
- How AI agents may reshape back-office operations
- The emerging battle to own the checking account workflow
- Why banks are no longer just competing on rates, but on software
From stablecoins to autonomous AI, this episode separates strategy from hype and highlights what institutions should actually be paying attention to.
Show Notes:
- Goldman Equips AI Agents to do Trade Accounting, Onboarding
- Invasion of the Job Snatchers: Digital Bank Workers Have Arrived | Bank Director
- Ron's Take on Array Acquiring Chimney
The 2026 What's Going On In Banking Report is NOW LIVE!!
- Download the Report: https://lnkd.in/gBNhy53P
- Watch the recap of the Webinar: https://vimeo.com/1166796761
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters
[0:00] Welcome + Arizona Recap & Stablecoin Talk
[3:10] Capital One’s $5B Brex Deal
[5:35] Why SMBs Expect Integrated Banking Tech
[7:27] SMB Segmentation: Capital, Industry, Technology
[10:19] Strategy Over Scale: The Real Growth Question
[11:14] Goldman Sachs Builds AI “Digital Coworkers”
[13:05] What AI Agents Actually Do (And Don’t Do)
[17:23] AI Risks, Bias & The Human Factor
[19:25] MrBeast, Grab & The Fintech Acquisition Wave
[20:36] The Hidden Battle for the Checking Account
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
In this special bonus episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin, Chief Research Officer at Cornerstone Advisors, is joined by Steve Williams, CEO & Partner of Cornerstone Advisors, to break down the findings from the 2026 WGOIB Webinar Report.
Based on insights from 400+ banks and credit unions, this report reveals how financial institutions are preparing for what’s next in:
- Artificial Intelligence strategy and investment
- Crypto’s evolving role in banking
- The escalating fraud crisis
- Technology spending priorities
- Growth and competitive pressures in 2026
If you want to understand where the industry is actually heading — not just the hype — this episode delivers the data behind the decisions.
Download the full report:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/research/whats-going-on-in-banking-2026
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters
[0:00] Welcome & Bonus Episode Overview
[1:45] Why 2026 Will Be a Pivotal Year for Banking
[4:30] Inside the Survey: 400+ Banks & Credit Unions Weigh In
[7:15] AI Strategy: Where Banks Are Investing (and Where They’re Not)
[11:20] Crypto in 2026: Reality vs. Hype
[14:40] The Fraud Explosion: What’s Keeping Executives Up at Night
[18:10] Technology Spending Priorities for 2026
[22:00] Growth, Competition & Strategic Shifts
[25:30] What Leaders Should Be Doing Right Now
[28:00] Final Takeaways & How to Access the Full Report
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
Banks are racing into AI and “data strategy” — but most can’t clearly define what they’re actually doing.
Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant break down why chasing trends won’t fix broken strategy, and why specificity, execution, and focus matter more than hype.
If you're in banking or fintech, this is the reality check you need.
The 2026 What's Going On In Banking Report is NOW LIVE!!
- Download the Report: https://lnkd.in/gBNhy53P
- Register for the Webinar, Feb 25th at 10:00am PT / 1:00pm ET: https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/events-and-webinars/whats-going-on-in-banking-2026
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters
[0:00] AI Hype vs. Strategy
[6:30] The Problem With “Just Doing AI”
[8:26] Test, Learn, Scale Explained
[15:07] What Kind of Data Are We Talking About?
[15:25] Customer vs. Market vs. Operational Data
[16:26] Execution Quality & Data IQ
[18:32] Where Financial Institutions Get Stuck
[20:00] Practical Advice for 2026
[26:31] Final Takeaways
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
A 10% credit card rate cap.
Crypto offering yield.
Apple ditching Goldman for JPMorgan Chase.
In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant break down the real-world consequences of headline-grabbing policy ideas, why buy now, pay later keeps winning with consumers, and what banks are getting right and wrong about crypto, partnerships, and relevance in 2026.
This isn’t political theater. It’s banking reality.
If you work in banking, fintech, payments, or credit unions, this episode is required listening.
Show Notes:
- Banks Cry Foul Over High-Yielding Tokens as Crypto Fight Simmers in Washington
- The Proposed Credit Card Interest Rate Cap Is All Politics, No Policy
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters
[0:00] Welcome & catching up at Cornerstone
[2:45] The proposed 10% credit card rate cap
[4:45] Why the cap could hurt consumers most
[7:15] Buy Now, Pay Later vs credit cards
[10:25] Is BNPL the new “starter credit”?
[11:40] Should crypto be allowed to offer yield?
[14:05] Are banks overestimating the crypto threat?
[17:05] Apple Card: Goldman out, JPMorgan in
[19:20] What Apple & Goldman got wrong
[20:40] Final thoughts & what banks should focus on
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
2026 is here — and banking is officially walking into the unknown.
In the first What’s Going On in Banking episode of the year, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant unpack the biggest forces shaping financial services right now: AI agents, crypto & stablecoins, fraud risks, fintech competition, and what banks think they’re prioritizing vs. what actually gets done.
From Wizard of Oz metaphors to real-world data from hundreds of bank and credit union executives, this episode delivers a sneak peek into the What’s Going On in Banking 2026 Report and why engagement, data utilization, and payments may matter more than ever.
If you work in banking, fintech, or credit unions, this is a must-watch to understand what’s changing and what’s being underestimated.
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters:
[0:00] Welcome to 2026 & Gonzo Banker Awards recap
[2:05] The legendary “Gonzoquito” moment 🍹
[4:55] Sneak peek: What’s in the 2026 Banking Report
[6:35] AI, Crypto & Fraud: Banking’s new “scary forest”
[9:35] Top concerns for banks & credit unions in 2026
[12:35] Cost of funds vs. deposit gathering—what’s misunderstood
[15:20] Fintechs, Coinbase & the real competitive threat
[19:00] Consumer behavior, engagement & digital expectations
[22:40] Why P2P payments jumped to #1 for credit unions
[29:45] AI agents, MCP & why “not ready for prime time” matters
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
AI is redefining banking, travel, creativity, and how financial institutions must evolve. In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Stacey Bryant and Ron Shevlin dive into the future of generative AI, the creativity gap in banking, SoFi’s bold crypto move, and why most banks are dangerously behind consumer expectations.
From real-world AI travel examples to new research showing massive crypto demand from Gen Z, millennials, and even Gen X, this conversation unpacks what’s coming in 2026 — and what banks must do to survive it.
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters:
[0:00] Welcome + What’s Cooking in Banking
[0:34] Stacey’s Food & Travel Story
[1:42] Industry Events & CMN Support
[3:13] Ron’s New Granddaughter Update
[4:48] What Banks Are Asking About AI
[5:32] The McKinsey AI Travel Example
[7:30] Could AI Build Your Financial Life Itinerary?
[9:03] Ron Clarifies What Generative AI Really Is
[12:21] Jobs, Creativity & the Human Side of AI
[20:54] SoFi, Crypto Demand & The Future of Banking
Send us Fan Mail
Subscribe to the What's Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://qrco.de/bgfV82
From the floor of Money20/20 to Wall Street’s reaction to Fiserv’s meltdown — Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant break down what’s real, what’s hype, and what’s next in banking.
They dive into the rise of “agentic AI,” fintech’s surprising optimism, and the inspiring leadership lessons from American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Banking.
Tune in for straight talk, smart takes, and a little snark from two of the industry’s sharpest voices.
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here:https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters:
[0:00] Welcome to “What’s Going On in Banking”
[1:00] Ron’s wild Money20/20 marathon (and foodie confessions)
[4:00] The real talk from Money20/20: AI hype vs. real innovation
[6:30] How “agentic AI” is changing M&A and lending
[8:45] Open banking or integration economics? Ron’s hot take
[10:45] Fintech is back — or did it ever leave?
[13:00] Stacey’s recap: The Most Powerful Women in Banking event
[16:50] Lessons in leadership from Jill Castilla and Julie Thurlow
[20:15] Fiserv’s stock shock — what really happened
[24:30] Wall Street, core consolidation, and what banks should learn
[26:45] Final thoughts and wrap-up
In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant break down Fifth Third’s $10.9B merger with Comerica, exploring why it’s less of a merger and more of a financial fusion reactor. Then, they dive into U.S. Bancorp’s bet on stablecoins and what it means for the future of payments, strategy, and tech modernization in banking.
From strategic jujitsu to smart money, this episode is a must-listen for anyone tracking the next wave of bank innovation.
Show Notes:
- “Fifth Third’s $11 Billion Question: Build or Buy?” GonzoBanker article: https://www.crnrstone.com/gonzobanker/fifth-thirds-11-billion-question-build-or-buy
- “U.S. Bancorp Sees Embedded Payments and Stablecoins as Growth Drivers” PYMNTS article: https://www.pymnts.com/earnings/2025/us-bancorp-sees-embedded-payments-stablecoins-growth-drivers/
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters:
[0:00] Welcome + Horseback Adventures in Montana
[1:00] Banking camaraderie & staying relevant in the age of AI
[2:00] Fifth Third’s $10.9B Comerica merger explained
[4:00] Why “bigger” isn’t the goal—“better” is
[6:00] Strategic jujitsu: the fusion reactor of banking
[8:00] What smaller banks can learn from the merger
[10:00] Tech modernization as the new M&A driver
[12:00] U.S. Bancorp’s stablecoin strategy revealed
[16:00] Why banks can’t wait for stablecoin “demand”
[22:00] The moonshot moment for stablecoins
[24:00] Final thoughts & what’s next in smarter banking
From AI “workslop” to Nubank’s U.S. charter to major fintech acquisitions — this episode of What’s Going On in Banking dives into the biggest stories shaping financial services right now.
Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant debate whether AI is really making us less creative, discuss why Nubank’s U.S. expansion could be a fintech turning point, and break down the wave of consolidation among the big core providers.
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here:https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Chapters
[0:00] Welcome to What’s Going On in Banking
[1:18] Ron & Stacey talk data conferences and new research
[1:47] The rise of “workslop” — AI-generated fluff or productivity killer?
[3:37] Is the “workslop” study fair—or missing the point?
[6:35] Management, authenticity, and catching AI-written work
[11:33] Nubank’s U.S. charter — fintechs going global
[14:49] U.S. innovation vs. global disruption
[19:07] “Fintech Hunger Games” — competition heats up
[19:41] Fintech acquisition spree: FIS, Fiserv & Jack Henry
[26:02] Wrap-up and what’s next in banking
In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant dive into the biggest takeaways from Jack Henry Connect and Finovate. From game-changing onboarding strategies to fraud dispute innovation, we unpack what’s really moving the needle in banking tech.
They also discuss the emotional side of fintech, remember community leaders, and tackle the hot debate: are 99% of AI startups doomed? Tune in for insights, stories, and talk about the future of financial services.
Chapters
[0:00] Welcome & On the Road Edition
[1:00] Highlights from Jack Henry Connect & Finovate
[2:40] Women in Financial Services & Generational Mentorship
[4:10] Best Demos & The Power of Onboarding
[6:30] Fraud Resolution as a Differentiator
[10:40] Echo, Deposit Outflows & Fintech Competition
[15:20] Remembering Barb McLean & Industry Tributes
[16:30] Jack Henry’s Human Side & Emotional Moments
[19:20] Are 99% of AI Startups Doomed?
[25:30] Build vs Buy: What Banks Should Really Focus On
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant unpack the latest moves from Revolut, Chime, and Nubank.
Revolut tries its hand at signing up NYC commuters in subway stations, while Chime partners with Workday to reach employees — and even taps into music influencers to grow its brand. Meanwhile, Nubank continues its explosive growth in Brazil, powered by instant payments and niche strategies that U.S. banks could learn from. The conversation dives into what’s hype, what’s real, and where the future of neobanks is headed.
Chapters:
[0:00] Welcome Back + Summer Recap
[1:25] Revolut’s Bold NYC Subway Campaign
[6:08] Why Neobanks Struggle in the U.S.
[8:14] Chime + Workday Collaboration Debate
[13:30] What Makes a Primary Checking Account?
[18:53] Chime’s Music & Influencer Strategy
[21:24] Spotlight on Nubank’s Explosive Growth
[25:51] Lessons from Brazil’s Instant Payments (PIX)
[28:40] Banking Niches, AI & Strategic Planning
[29:54] Wrap-Up + Next Episode Tease
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
In this episode of What’s Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant tackle JPMorgan Chase’s controversial move to charge fintechs for data access—is it smart strategy or a threat to innovation? Then we dive into Goldman Sachs’ bold AI rollout and what it really means for the future of financial services.
Hot takes, real-world analogies, and a clear look at the regulatory chaos ahead.
Chapters
[00:00] Introduction & Headlines
[00:31] Reactions from Fintech & Public Outcry
[02:09] Legal Uncertainty Around Rule 1033
[03:03] Economic Logic & Envelope Analogy
[06:21] Market Forces, Competition & Consumer Choice
[08:06] The Real Impact on Fintechs & Margins
[11:23] Future Outlook & Regulatory Possibilities
[16:13] AI in Banking: Goldman Sachs Case Study
[20:30] ROI & Hype vs. Reality of AI Adoption
[27:10] Starting Small & Industry Adoption Trends
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
The Genius Act brings new rules to stablecoins—but should banks care? Ron and Stacey dive into regulation, misinformation, and how celebrity hype is warping financial decision-making (yes, even for affluent boomers).
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here:
https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
Ron and Stacey vent about boardroom conversations on deposit growth, vendor chaos, and how no one wants to raise rates—but everyone wants deposits.
Subscribe to the What’s Going On In Banking podcast here: https://www.crnrstone.com/gritty-insights/podcasts/whats-going-on-in-banking
In this episode of What's Going On in Banking, Ron Shevlin and Stacey Bryant unpack the big waves reshaping the financial industry—from Chime’s bold IPO and Capital One’s acquisition of Discover to the shifting role of community banks in an increasingly digital world. Is the fintech revolution a threat or an opportunity?
Plus: the truth behind AI buzzwords, the risks of open banking, and why handshakes might still beat algorithms. A must-listen for bankers, fintech leaders, and anyone navigating the future of finance.
After a year-long hiatus, Ron Shevlin returns with a revamped What’s Going On in Banking, now co-hosted by the sharp and vibrant Stacey Bryant. In this episode, the co-hosts break down the FIS–Worldpay–Global Payments deal, questioning whether it’s as rosy as a deal for financial institutions as some assume.
They also dig into the chaos around artificial intelligence in banking—from vague definitions to overhyped return on investment expectations and argue that banks must improve the ways in which they use data.
Show notes
- Companies Are Struggling to Drive a Return on AI. It Doesn’t Have to Be That Way(WSJ subscription required)
Dive into the future of financial services in this highly-anticipated episode of What's Going on in Banking with Ron Shevlin and co-host Steve Williams. They unpack the evolving banking landscape—from a shift out of stormy pessimism to a cautiously optimistic outlook—covering key topics that matter most to banking professionals today.
In this episode, Ron and Steve discuss:
• Deposit Growth & Liquidity: Explore why deposit gathering remains a top priority, the impact of fintech disruption, and how banks are leveraging rate strategies and advanced analytics to compete for funds.
• Fintech Partnerships & Embedded Finance: Learn how banks and credit unions are rethinking partnerships, integrating fintech solutions, and innovating product offerings to capture younger, tech-savvy customers.
• Cybersecurity & Fraud Prevention: Delve into emerging challenges in cybersecurity and fraud, and discover why building a robust fraud tech stack is critical in today’s digital era.
• Regulatory Trends & Core Integration: Analyze the potential regulatory shifts—including changes to the CFPB’s role—and the challenges banks face in modernizing core systems while staying compliant.
• AI & Data Strategy: Uncover how generative AI and data-driven insights are poised to transform back-office operations and drive smarter banking, from credit services to customer experience.
Marketing majors at business schools are declining and boardrooms are dropping marketing’s seat. Even marketing professionals are failing to effectively market themselves. In this episode, Ron and guests Derik Sutton (CMO, Autobooks) and Mary Anne Keegan (CEO, Etch Advisors) discuss these challenges. They also explore the changing landscape of marketing and the need for a balance between short-term results and long-term attention.
In this episode, Ron Shevlin interviews Nigel Morris, co-founder and managing partner of QED Investors, about the current state of fintech. They discuss JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon’s annual shareholder letter, the impact of AI on financial institutions (and what to watch out for), what U.S.-based banks and fintech companies can learn from emerging markets, the underserved small business lending space, and much more.
On this episode, Ron examines how and why consumers are shaking up their banking habits with Liz Wolverton, the executive vice president and head of consumer banking and brand experience at Synovus. Together, they explore how next-gen digital bankers are – get ready – baby boomers and how younger consumers are downgrading their financial institution by moving some of their money elsewhere. Liz calls this trend “silent attrition.” They also explore what people want from a bank account, including features for adult children who are managing their aging parents' money, at a time when banks and credit unions remain in hot pursuit of deposits.
In this episode, Ron Shevlin and Steve Williams discuss some of the hottest findings of the 2024 What's Going On in Banking report. Come for the data. Leave with ideas on successful deposit strategies, faster payment prospects, and other ways to combat growing competitive threats. Also, hear some comments penned from your peers on the thorniest challenges and biggest opportunities they see in the months to come.
Download the full report now!
On this episode, Ron dives into PayPal's groundbreaking announcement to launch its own dollar-pegged cryptocurrency with special guest Todd Baker. Together they examine how PayPal's bold move into crypto could revolutionize payments.
Learn why PayPal is betting big on stablecoins becoming the next generation of digital money, discover how decentralized finance may reshape transactions, and find out what risks challengers like PayPal pose to traditional banks and payment networks.
Will privately-issued cryptocurrencies replace your credit card? Can they challenge the dominance of Visa and Mastercard? What could this mean for the future of how we pay?
Tune in to hear insights on PayPal's crypto play, the coming payments revolution, and what it all might mean for your wallet.
Subscribe to What's Going On In Banking for the latest in banking, fintech, and more!
The Credit Card Competition Act of 2023 aims to shake up the payments industry, but would its intended consequences actually happen? Let's dive into the proposed legislation that would let merchants route transactions through networks beyond just Visa and Mastercard. On this episode, Ron talks with Michele Alt (Co-Founder of the Klaros Group and former OCC Official), to explore whether this act would truly increase competition and lower costs for consumers and merchants alike. Or might it have unintended consequences that could negatively impact smaller banks, enable fraud, reduce tax revenue, and more? Get the insider take as we debate the merits and potential pitfalls of this bid to transform the credit card processing business. The hosts draw on decades of combined experience to pick apart the proposal and foresee its ripple effects. Whether you're a policy wonk or just pay with plastic, this episode breaks down the ambitious Credit Card Competition Act from every angle. Tune in to help shape your own informed opinion.
Subscribe to What's Going On In Banking for the latest in Fintech, financial services, and everything banking!
On this episode, Ron Shevlin sits down with fintech analyst Alex Johnson to deep dive on why fintechs like Chime and Square captured nearly half of all new checking accounts in 2023. They explore the generational shifts towards fintech, whether niche players will survive, and if rate hikes can win back younger consumers. Unpacking the future of the checking account, they analyze the challenges digital upstarts face to retain and expand customer relationships over time. Get the data-driven insights on the tectonic shifts in consumer finance reshaping banking.
Subscribe to What's Going On In Banking and stay informed on the latest in fintech and banking breaking news.