The Credit Union Helping Growth, Affordability, & Community in Austin

In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at the transformation of Austin's financial landscape with Kendall Garrison, the President and CEO of Amplify Credit Union. With over four decades of experience in the banking industry, Kendall brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on how financial services can be more accessible and community driven.

Kendall's journey is anything but conventional. Before leading Amplify, he ventured into entrepreneurship by founding Waco's first craft brewery, Bosque Brewing. This experience taught him invaluable lessons about leadership, adaptability, and the importance of cash flow—insights that he now applies to his role at Amplify. Under his leadership, Amplify has pioneered a fee-free banking model that challenges traditional banking norms. This innovative approach not only removes the burden of fees from customers but also fosters financial inclusivity, especially for those in underserved communities.

Here are some of the key topics we discuss: 

🔹 Banking Evolution: How Amplify Credit Union went from a small IBM credit union to a fee-free banking pioneer

🍺 Craft Brewing & Business Lessons: Kendall’s journey from banker to brewery founder & back

🏡 Affordable Housing Crisis: The biggest financial challenge in Austin & how credit unions can help

💰 The Future of Banking: Real-time payments, fintech disruption & why traditional banks are lagging

🏛️ Community Impact: Kendall’s work with St. Louis House to help women & children transition from homelessness

🏎️ Serial Hobbyist: From fast cars to speakeasies, Kendall shares his favorite pastimes in Austin

📢 Career Advice: The #1 tip for young professionals looking to grow in the financial industry

About our guest: 

Kendall Garrison is President and Chief Executive Officer of Amplify Credit Union. He has been instrumental in driving growth for the credit union over his 12-year tenure, which has tripled in size over that time to more than $3B in assets under management supported by 200+ employees.

Before Amplify, Garrison held senior management positions with various mortgage and commercial banking institutions over a 40+-year career. These organizations included privately held and publicly traded institutions in Texas, including Franklin Bank, Synergy Mortgage, and Extraco Bank. He also worked as a consultant for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, overseeing entities in conservatorship around the country.

Beyond Amplify, Garrison is active in the Austin community. He currently serves as Treasurer for the Board of Directors of Saint Louise House, a nonprofit that provides housing and support for women-led families seeking to break the cycle of homelessness.

Learn more about Amplify Credit Union: https://www.goamplify.com/ 

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