As Jack Hubbard wraps up another year of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, he welcomes back a familiar and trusted voice—Bill Fink, Chief Lending Officer at Provident Bank. For the third consecutive year, Bill joins Jack to break down what’s really happening in banking and the broader economy—and what bankers should be watching as they head into 2026. Drawing from his hands-on work with clients, bankers, and market data, Bill shares why the outlook for 2026 can best be described as guarded but optimistic. The conversation dives deep into how businesses have adapted to tariffs, what confidence levels look like across industries, and why disciplined growth and proactive risk management remain essential for banks today. Jack and Bill also tackle some of the biggest topics facing bankers right now, including commercial real estate realities, bank profitability and delinquencies, mergers and acquisitions, deposit insurance reform, small business banking, and the growing role of AI in sales and banking operations. With decades of experience and a rare blend of financial, sales, and strategic insight, Bill offers a grounded, practical perspective bankers can rely on as they plan for the year ahead.

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard sits down with Ron Buck and Bob St. Meyer to unveil AI Navigator, a groundbreaking AI-powered sales enablement platform built specifically for commercial and B2B bankers. Ron shares the long-term vision behind AI Navigator—drawing inspiration from Apple’s legendary Knowledge Navigator, and explains how advances in AI reasoning now make it possible to deliver real-time insights, coaching, and call preparation exactly when bankers need it most. Bob adds perspective on how decades of sales training, playbooks, and coaching frameworks have been embedded into the platform to help bankers move from information gathering to high-impact, trust-building conversations. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard welcomes the expert in the field, Jayne Hladio, President of Wealth Management at Associated Bank. Jayne shares her unique career trajectory, from a young girl inspired by community banking in rural Iowa to leading a massive wealth division. The conversation delves into the distinct challenges faced by community banks versus large organizations when developing wealth services. Jayne highlights the innovative strategy she employed at Midland States Bank to launch a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm and the "Goldilocks situation" at Associated Bank, which functions as the nation's 40th largest trust company by assets under administration. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this powerful episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard welcomes back bestselling author, keynote speaker, and renowned business strategist Meridith Elliott Powell, a leader whose journey and insights continue to shape the future of sales, leadership, and organizational growth. Jack and Meridith go deep into her newest book, Perspective: Reignite, Reinvent, Reframe, the final installment of her acclaimed “Thrive” trilogy. Meridith shares why today’s uncertain marketplace isn’t a threat, but an unparalleled opportunity for those who listen better, adapt faster, and lead with purpose. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this deep and eye-opening episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard sits down with bestselling author and global sales thought leader Brent Adamson, co-author of The Challenger Sale, The Challenger Customer, and the groundbreaking new book The Frame-Making Sale. Brent shares powerful new research revealing the real reason deals stall, buyers disappear, and decisions drag on and it has nothing to do with your brand, product, or value props. Instead, it all comes down to something far more human: customer self-confidence. This episode is a must-listen for bankers, sales leaders, relationship managers, and anyone navigating today’s complex buying landscape. Brent’s insights will challenge everything you thought you knew about sales—and give you a new roadmap for winning decisions in a world where customers are overwhelmed and unsure. If you’ve ever had a deal stall, a buyer ghost you, or a champion say “If it were up to me…” this episode will change the way you sell. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this insightful episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard sits down with branding expert, author, and Banktastic founder Martha Bartlett Piland to explore what it truly means for financial institutions to build brands that do something, not just say something. With her second bestseller, “Don’t Just Brand There, Do Something”, Martha shares why many banks still fall into the trap of commoditization, how they can differentiate more meaningfully, and why a brand built on empty promises can no longer survive in today’s competitive landscape. If you’re a community bank leader, marketer, or anyone responsible for the future of a financial brand, this conversation is packed with perspective-shifting insights you won’t want to miss. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this inspiring episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, host Jack Hubbard welcomes back best-selling author and emotional intelligence expert Colleen Stanley for her third appearance, this time to discuss her new book, Be the Mentor Who Mattered. Colleen shares the heartfelt story behind her “passion project” and explores how small, authentic moments of connection, what she calls “mentor moments,” can change the trajectory of a life or career. From her Iowa farm roots to building a successful sales leadership company, Colleen reveals how gratitude, presence, and emotional intelligence shape true mentorship. Together, Jack and Colleen reflect on the impact of informal mentors, the challenges of leadership in the post-COVID, Zoom-heavy world, and how to reignite genuine human connection in business and beyond. They also touch on AI’s role in mentorship, the importance of “showing up and trying,” and why the next “greatest generation” may be those who simply choose to lift others up. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this deeply inspiring episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard sits down with Charleen Wheeless, an award-winning executive, author of You Are Enough, and former Washington Redskins cheerleader, to discuss her remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in Oakland to becoming one of the youngest African American female executives in corporate America. Charleen opens up about the lessons she learned from her courageous mother, overcoming adversity in the workplace, navigating cancer, and reclaiming her identity through authenticity and purpose. She shares powerful insights on mentorship versus championship, the myth of work-life balance, and why women must stop apologizing for their success. This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, self-worth, and leadership, a reminder that you are enough, just as you are. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, host Jack Hubbard sits down with Joe McMann, co-founder of AIR, the company behind award-winning AI solutions for governance, risk, compliance, and cybersecurity. From Wall Street to Main Street, Joe shares how his journey from professional golfer to investment banker led to the creation of a patented AI platform transforming how financial institutions safely integrate artificial intelligence. Jack and Joe dive deep into the real-world applications of AI in banking, exploring how community banks can leverage technology to stay competitive against industry giants. They discuss the widening gap between institutions that adopt AI and those that don’t, the critical role of fiduciary responsibility in digital transformation, and how AI-driven platforms like FIN are redefining wealth management and client engagement. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, host Jack Hubbard sits down with Karen Kerrigan, President and CEO of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council), one of the leading voices advocating for small business owners in Washington, D.C. Karen shares her 30-year journey fighting for entrepreneurs and shaping policies that impact Main Street America. From AI adoption and global market challenges to tariffs, startup trends, and succession planning, she dives into the real issues affecting today’s small business landscape. Discover how the SBE Council helps business owners stay informed, influence legislation, and thrive amid constant change. Karen also discusses the rise of agentic commerce, the power of AI for small business growth, and why the future has never been brighter for entrepreneurs who are ready to adapt. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this insightful episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, host Jack Hubbard sits down with Ilaria Rawlins, CEO of Fortuna Bank in Columbus, Ohio, to explore her inspiring journey from “accidental banker” to accomplished financial leader. Ilaria shares how her early experiences in banking shaped her leadership philosophy, the lessons learned in navigating challenges, and the importance of fostering innovation while maintaining the personal touch that defines community banking. Together, Jack and Ilaria dive into topics such as leadership development, building a values-driven culture, empowering teams, and how community banks can stay competitive in an evolving financial landscape. This episode offers practical wisdom and authentic stories that both seasoned bankers and emerging leaders will find invaluable. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, host Jack Hubbard sits down with Amanda Brinkman, the visionary marketer, producer, and Chief Brand Officer behind Deluxe Corporation’s acclaimed Small Business Revolution series. Amanda shares how purpose-driven marketing can transform not just brands—but entire communities. Drawing from her experience leading national campaigns and spotlighting small businesses across America, she discusses the importance of authenticity, storytelling, and aligning brand values with social impact. Jack and Amanda also explore how community banks and financial institutions can elevate their marketing by focusing on human connection, local relationships, and genuine support for small business growth. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard sits down with renowned sales expert and bestselling author Jeb Blount, who has written more than 15 books on sales and leadership. Together, they dive into Jeb’s latest book, The LinkedIn Edge, co-authored with Brynne Tillman of The Modern Banker, and explore the evolving landscape of modern selling. Jeb shares insights from his decades-long career in sales, from his early beginnings to becoming one of the most respected voices in the industry. Listeners will gain practical strategies for leveraging LinkedIn, building authentic relationships, and mastering the art of conversations that convert. This conversation is packed with storytelling, timeless sales wisdom, and actionable takeaways to help bankers and sales professionals thrive in today’s competitive environment. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

Bankers often scroll LinkedIn without direction, missing opportunities hidden in plain sight. This episode explores how to create a custom content feed that surfaces posts from your most important prospects, clients, and centers of influence. With a structured approach, every scroll can become a strategic activity that drives engagement and conversations. Takeaways: Why most bankers waste time scrolling their home page newsfeed How to set up targeted searches for high-value people Turning likes and comments into meaningful conversations Building a repeatable daily engagement routine

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard sits down with Ken Martin, one of the most respected sales leaders in the banking industry. From his early days as a management trainee to leading national sales teams at Fleet, Bank of America, Citizens, Santander, CIT, and now First Citizens, Ken shares lessons learned from decades of experience. He dives into leadership strategies, the importance of accountability, how to build and coach high-performing teams, and his passion for recognition programs like Top Gun and Winner’s Circle. Ken also offers insights into recruiting top talent, sustaining motivation, and the evolving role of AI in banking. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an aspiring sales leader, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and inspiring stories that will help you elevate your career in banking. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard sits down with Mark Turner, former CEO of WSFS Bank and author of The Path to Sustained Excellence. Mark shares his journey from KPMG to leading one of the nation’s oldest banks through transformational growth, the 2008 financial crisis, and more than a decade of mergers and acquisitions. He reflects on lessons in leadership, culture, strategy, and resilience while offering candid insights on balancing personal challenges with professional demands. Listeners will also hear inspiring stories about building a people-first culture, the power of values-driven decision-making, and what the future holds for community banking. Sponsored by RelPro, Inc. and Vertical IQ

September 11th changed us in ways we are still uncovering. The tragedy impacted us personally, reshaping our sense of safety, connection, and trust in one another. Professionally, it reminded us that relationships—not transactions—are what carry us through crisis. In this conversation, we will explore how the events of 9/11 continue to deepen our philosophy of trust-based selling. When uncertainty and loss test us, trust is not a tactic—it’s a lifeline. We’ll look at how the principles that sustain people in times of crisis—authentic connection, empathy, reliability, and service—are the same principles that build meaningful, lasting business relationships. Join us as we honor the resilience of 9/11 victims and survivors, while drawing lessons that continue to shape how we show up for others in both life and business.

In this episode of Jack Rants with Modern Bankers, Jack Hubbard sits down with bestselling author and researcher Matt Dixon to explore his latest book, The Activator Advantage. Together, they dive into the shifting world of sales and professional services, discussing why traditional rainmaking no longer guarantees success and how the "activator" mindset is transforming business development. Matt shares insights from his global study of over 3,000 partners, revealing what top performers do differently to build lasting client relationships, generate opportunities, and deliver value proactively. Sponsored by RelPro and Vertical IQ.

In this episode of Jack Rants with Brynne, Jack Hubbard and Brynne Tillman wrap up their live podcast season by diving deep into the powerful world of LinkedIn Sales Navigator alerts. From auto-generated connection insights to AI-curated recommendations, they explore how bankers can unlock hidden leads with minimal effort. Along the way, they share upcoming training opportunities, celebrate big milestones—like Brynne’s forthcoming LinkedIn book—and reflect on how AI tools like Copilot and Perplexity are reshaping sales strategies. It’s a data-driven, future-forward conversation packed with takeaways for modern bankers and sales pros alike.

Jack Hubbard and Brynne Tillman explore the evolving landscape of banking, emphasizing the role of Sales Navigator and LinkedIn strategies for bankers. They discuss three outreach strategies crucial for generating leads, including mutual connection warmups, trigger-based targeting, and engaging with content. Brynne highlights the importance of building genuine relationships and the strategic use of referrals. The episode also teases a special guest coaching session for bankers and provides insights on how LinkedIn can foster valuable business connections. Tune in for actionable insights and effective networking strategies tailored for the banking industry.