Send us a text

In this episode, Trust Falls and Take Offs, we explore how true leadership is built on moments of both vulnerability and lift.

Just like a trust fall, great leaders create environments where their team feels safe to lean back, knowing they’ll be supported. And just like a takeoff, leaders provide the vision, energy, and momentum that help the team rise to new heights.

We unpack the balance between letting go of control and offering direction, sharing stories and strategies for building authentic trust, cultivating confidence, and inspiring sustainable success that grows naturally from within the team rather than being forced from the top down.

Juan Fernadez Bio:

As CEO, I’ve had the honor of leading a transformational journey—reimagining what a modern credit union association can be. When we became Luminate, it wasn’t just a name change; it was a commitment to shine a light on relevant, future-forward solutions for credit unions of all sizes.

Whether it’s policy, innovation, or people—everything we do at Luminate is in service of a brighter, more inclusive financial future. I’m proud of our team, our mission, and the movement we’re helping to build.
Let’s connect if you’re passionate about the future of credit unions, advocacy, or building purpose-driven leadership ecosystems.

I have served the credit union movement for over twenty years in four states - New York, New Mexico, Washington and Louisiana - tackling opportunities in communities of all sizes and complexity. I started as a teller and have grown a career in credit unions because of the amazing power we have to change people's lives. I am passionate about our movement and am honored to be part of it.

Send us a text

Armand Parvazi is a passionate credit union leader, former C-suite executive, and accomplished strategist with a strong track record of driving growth and innovation. With experience spanning political campaigns, small businesses, and financial institutions, Armand brings a unique perspective to digital transformation, marketing, financial institution management, and corporate strategy.

A second-generation credit union professional, Armand is a lifelong advocate for the movement both in local communities and on Capitol Hill. He has led impactful initiatives, including the implementation of a data-driven marketing strategy that delivered a 2,100% ROI, a 61% increase in assets, and a rise in products-per-new-member by 39%. He also pioneered the first cancer care debt relief program in the nation, helping members facing medical hardship.

Armand was named the 2021 NAFCU Professional of the Year and a 2024 CU Times Luminaries Rising Star, recognizing his leadership and commitment to the credit union mission.

He is a frequent speaker at industry events, including the World Council of Credit Unions, CUNA/America’s Credit Unions, and various state league conferences.

Certifications: CUDE, CCUE, NCCO, CCUFC, CUCME, Certified CDFI Practitioner

Send us a text

A heartfelt thank you to JT and Valiify for hosting a podcast at our 2025 Luminate Convention!

The mic's have turned and I was interviewed!

I was truly honored to share my love for Luminate, our incredible team, our amazing members, and of course, the great state of Louisiana.