Episode 102

Sarah Maldonado, Vice President of Human Resources at the Texas Bankers Association

In this eye-opening episode of Banking Matters, Amanda Mattson sits down with Sarah Maldonado, Vice President of Human Resources at the Texas Bankers Association. They explore how banks can stay competitive in today’s rapidly evolving workplace. The conversation also unpacks what it really takes to attract—and keep—top talent. Sarah shares insights on rising employee expectations and the growing demand for flexibility, career growth, and meaningful feedback. Discover why the old HR playbook no longer works, and how banks must evolve their culture to thrive in the modern talent landscape.

The views expressed in the Banking Matters Podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Compliance Alliance or its affiliates.*

Episode 101

Jon Waldman, President and Co-Founder, SBS CyberSecurity/SBS Institute

In this must-listen episode of Banking Matters, Amanda Mattson speaks with with Jon Waldman, co-founder and president of SBS Cybersecurity. They unpack the rise of AI in the banking world, and how it’s arming both cybercriminals and cybersecurity defenders alike. They also discuss the top threats banks are facing right now, why vendor management has never been more critical, and how forward-thinking institutions can turn AI into their strongest asset. Jon shares real-world insights that every banking leader needs to hear to stay secure and competitive in this rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The views expressed in the Banking Matters Podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Compliance Alliance or its affiliates.*

Episode 100

Chris Furlow, President and CEO, Texas Bankers Association

In this landmark interview marking the 100th episode of Banking Matters, host Elizabeth Holtrop interviews Chris Furlow, President and CEO of the Texas Bankers Association. They discuss the current landscape of banking, including TBA’s litigation efforts against regulatory overreach, legislative initiatives to support community banks in Texas and across the nation, and the implications of cryptocurrency and stable coins on the banking industry. The discussion emphasizes the importance of advocacy and engagement among bankers to navigate these challenges and shape the future of banking.

The views expressed in the Banking Matters Podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Compliance Alliance or its affiliates.*

Episode 99

Charlene Heydinger, president of the Texas PACE Authority

In this episode of Banking Matters, host Elizabeth Holtrop engages with Charlene Heydinger, president of the Texas PACE Authority, to discuss the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program and similar types of financing across the USA. They discuss how this type of program facilitates financing for energy and water-saving improvements in commercial properties, the benefits for lenders, and the program’s impact on revitalizing communities. Heydinger emphasizes the importance of local banks in the PACE ecosystem and highlights how financing such as the PACE program can impact a variety of commercial properties, from agricultural use to metro-area hotels.

The views expressed in the Banking Matters Podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Compliance Alliance or its affiliates.*

Episode 98

John Ortega, G. Ortega Law

In this episode, host Elizabeth Holtrop speaks with John Ortega of G. Ortega Law, based in Houston. John shares his journey from a high school job as a bank teller to his current work spanning the banking and legal sectors. He discusses the importance of relationships in banking, particularly in managing problem loans, and offers insights into the current banking environment and its implications for community and mid-sized banks.

The views expressed in the Banking Matters Podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Compliance Alliance or its affiliates.*