Banking on Growth

Community banks face growing competition from fintech platforms like Square. Merchant services, deposits, and lending are all at risk, and many institutions underestimate how fast the shift is happening. Host Mike Graham, CEO of Midwestern Securities, is joined by Nellie Schlachter, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Evolv, a national provider of merchant services for banks and credit unions. With more than a decade of experience in bank management, Nellie brings a clear, insider perspective on how payment providers are expanding into full-service banking and why many financial institutions underestimate the risk. Together, Mike and Nellie break down how merchant services have become a frontline defense for community banks. They discuss how platforms like Square attract business customers with speed and convenience, how that opens the door to deposits and loans, and how banks can respond with stronger programs, better education, and more intentional outreach. You will also learn what a truly robust merchant services strategy looks like, how to identify customers already working with Square, and how banks can win back wallet share through smarter engagement. Links: Evolv WebsiteEvolv on LinkedIn Nellie Schlachter on LinkedIn  If you work with community banks, credit unions, or financial advisors, this conversation offers practical insights on defending relationships, driving non-interest income, and staying competitive in a rapidly changing financial services landscape. Watch the full video podcast Banking on Growth by Midwestern Securities for more conversations on growth, strategy, and the future of community banking. ----- Find our episode on one of these podcast channels: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Podcast Index • Podcast Addict • Podchaser • Pocket Casts • Deezer • Listen Heart • PlayerFM For more information on strengthening your retail wealth management division, contact us, and let’s start talking! https://midwesternsecurities.com/contact/ Follow us for more financial insights: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midwesternsecurities LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/midwesternsecurities Website: https://midwesternsecurities.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@midwesternsecurities1999 ----- Midwestern Securities is a reputable independent broker/dealer and Registered Investment Advisory firm owned and operated by community bankers and financial professionals. With a strong track record of delivering personalized attention and financial advisor coaching that helps community financial institutions take their investment services divisions to the next level, Midwestern Securities has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. If your bank needs a team that can help, visit https://midwesternsecurities.com/. Member FINRA/SIPC