The Currency of Knowledge Podcast

In this episode of Currency of Knowledge, we sit down with Ryan Tarrant, President & CEO of the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, to talk about leadership, economic development, and the long-term vision for Jackson, Michigan.

Ryan shares how nearly two decades as a congressional aide in Washington, DC shaped his approach to collaboration, bipartisan problem-solving, and community-focused leadership. We explore how those experiences n...

In this episode of The Currency of Knowledge, we sit down with Rann Painter, President and CEO of the Michigan Bankers Association, to discuss the rapidly changing world of banking, financial literacy, and consumer protection.

Rann shares insights on how banking has evolved over the past decade — from fraud prevention and cybersecurity to stablecoins, digital currencies, and new federal regulations. We also explore the Michigan Bank...

Get an inside look at our summer internship program as we talk with interns from marketing, wealth management, retail administration, and commercial lending. Hear their stories, what they learned, how the bank shaped their career paths, and their personal answers to our signature question: “What is wealth?”


This episode highlights real experiences, meaningful mentorship, and how young professionals are building their ...

Welcome to The Currency of Knowledge, an educational video series by County National Bank (CNB) where we explore real stories, expert insights, and the power of relationships in community banking.

In this episode, Trent, Vice President of Commercial Lending in Portage/Kalamazoo, Michigan, sits down to discuss what commercial lending really means for small businesses and entrepreneurs. From helping startups secure funding to guiding...

In this episode, we sit down with Mark to talk about the vital role agriculture plays in our community and how local banks support farmers in growing their businesses. With years of experience in ag lending, Mark shares what makes working with farm families unique, the challenges they face, and the opportunities that come with serving one of the region’s most important industries. Whether you’re in banking, farming, or simply curio...

Welcome to The Currency of Knowledge podcast by County National Bank Wealth Management. In this episode, hosts Christopher Phillips and Holleigh Baker sit down with Kathryn Mohr, an experienced attorney and community leader, to explore the often-overlooked but crucial topics of business succession and estate planning.

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations redefining wealth beyond the balance sheet.

💬 Share your thoughts in the comment...

In this episode of The Currency of Knowledge, host Holleigh sits down again with Austin Jenkins from Dimensional Fund Advisors for Part 2 of their conversation—this time diving into the timely and often misunderstood world of ethical and sustainable investing, also known as ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing.

Whether you're an environmentally-conscious investor or looking to align your finances with your pers...

In this episode of The Currency of Knowledge, host Holleigh Baker is joined by Austin Jenkins, Regional Director at Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA), for an insightful discussion on portfolio diversification and asset allocation. Together, they break down what it means to build a well-diversified investment portfolio, the roles of different asset classes, how to assess risk tolerance, and the psychology behind staying invested. Whet...

In this episode of The Currency of Knowledge, co-hosts Christopher Phillips and Holleigh Baker discuss one of the most essential—and often overlooked—aspects of financial planning: estate and trust settlement. With decades of experience guiding families through this emotional and logistical process, they offer clear, practical advice on how to prepare your estate, support your beneficiaries, and avoid unnecessary complications duri...

In this episode of the "Currency of Knowledge" education series, the hosts engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Barry Malik, head of retirement plan services. Together, they explore the essential process of helping clients define their financial priorities and goals. Barry emphasizes the importance of personalized financial discussions, shedding light on how individual aspirations, such as travel plans or healt...

This episode focuses on wealth management. Guest Jake Johnson, CNB Assistant Vice President, Private Banking Officer, discusses the fundamentals of financial planning, emphasizing its comprehensive nature beyond traditional financial advice to include tax and estate planning tailored to individual client needs.

Johnson highlights the significance of building client relationships, understanding their objectives, and delivering contin...

Meet Holleigh Baker from our Wealth Management team, who has a specialized designation as a Chartered Special Needs Consultant.  With a passion for bridging gaps in resources, Holleigh helps families navigate the complexities of special needs trusts, government benefits, and investment strategies tailored to unique circumstances. Her person-first approach ensures clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to make informed decisions....

In this inspiring episode of The Currency of Knowledge, we sit down with Joe Williams, CEO and president of County National Bank, who shares his journey from modest beginnings to a position of influence and mentorship. Williams discusses the values instilled in him by his hardworking parents and the lessons he learned from great and challenging leaders. His story highlights the importance of resilience, positivity, and the power of...

Tune in for this episode of "The Currency of Knowledge," where hosts Christopher Phillips and Holleigh Baker delve into the transformative power of performing arts with special guest Libby Watson, Executive Director of the Adrian Symphony Orchestra. Explore the profound impact of music on youth and community, the intricacies of staging professional concerts, and the fulfilling mission of nonprofit organizations. Discover ...

This podcast episode engages with Jenny and Jed Engel, who share their personal and professional journeys. Jenny reflects on her 22-year battle with breast cancer, including her diagnosis, treatment, and the bucket list she created centered around her family’s milestones. Jed discusses his leadership role in the family business, highlighting challenges during the 2008 financial crisis and the pandemic. Both emphasize the importance...

In this episode of The Currency of Knowledge, we sit down with eight talented interns who are reshaping the future of banking. These bright young minds bring fresh perspectives and energy to our organization, contributing to impactful projects that align with our 2024 goals. We discuss their unique take on the banking industry, their experiences working in a field that many of them hadn’t initially considered, and the insights they...