Banking With Friends: How First South Financial Connects Through Community

In this insightful episode of Connect Germantown, host Janie Day chats with Maria McLendon, Chief Marketing Officer at First South Financial Credit Union, about how the organization is staying true to its roots while embracing the future of finance. With over 17 branches and a long history of putting people over profit, First South lives out its tagline: Banking with Friends.

Maria shares how her diverse career journey—from chambers of commerce to insurance to returning home to Memphis—ultimately led her to her “dream job” at First South. With a marketing strategy deeply grounded in member service, community engagement, and tech-forward thinking, First South is setting a powerful example for modern credit unions.

💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How First South Financial differentiates itself from traditional banks
• The evolution of marketing in the financial sector—from print to personalization
• Why community involvement is their marketing strategy
• Surprising research on where Gen Z gets financial advice (hint: Reddit and Snapchat!)
• How First South is using social media, AI, and automation to educate and empower
• The role of financial literacy programs like First South at Work in local businesses
• A vision for the future of banking that centers around community, innovation, and education

📍 Serving the Memphis metro region with over 17 branches
🌐 firstsouth.com
📱 Follow on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, and Reddit

Whether you're Gen Z learning to budget, a small business owner looking for employee education tools, or a long-time member seeking a partner in your financial journey—First South is ready to be your friend in finance.