ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

In Case You Missed It – 2.25.2026

Strong financially independent women, experts talk core conversions, avoiding really bad reactions when you use AI, and the credit union that pays for grades. Here’s what we noticed, in case you missed it:

“Money Like a Woman” Movement celebrates strengths

Linda Armyn, President/CEO at FourLeaf Federal Credit Union in Bethpage New York, shared some incredible engagement stats with CUbroadcast (over 100 million video views, 800,000+ website visits) for their “Money Like a Woman” movement, designed to promote financial inclusivity and awareness of the unique mindset and strengths of women.

“Money Like a Woman” is doing incredible work, and (in addition to verbing the noun “money”) there are a lot of great takeaways here for anyone who wants to make a significant social impact with and within the credit union model.

  • It’s called a “movement”, not a “project” or “program”. (I noticed because I’m on a very minor personal quest to get everyone to call credit unions a “movement” and not an “industry”). That one word shifts power to participants, and immediately communicates a much larger vision.
  • They’re putting in real resources. For example, the “Bethboards” (Nice! Who was this “bill” guy, with all the boards anyway?) around town that highlight women-led businesses. And #MONEYLIKEAWOMAN also includes sponsorships, awards, education, and services.
  • There’s a real, powerful, and unique connection to the CU’s mission, membership, and leadership.

Expert insights on core conversions

This episode of Finopotamus Unscripted podcast brings together experts in core conversions to discuss some of the principles for pulling off a smooth, successful conversion, as well as the “whys”. As we’ve said before, preparation and communication with members and staff are the keys, and of course you need to have VERY good reasons for making the leap.

AI and trust in member service: it’s complicated

This in-depth article on a new Harris/CSG survey from Nick Volpe at The Financial Brand goes deep into some of the nuances of how consumers interact with and trust or mistrust AI. Key takeaways are that trust levels aren’t very high, but people are generally willing to try AI tools and consider the information as long as they have the final say: “…the moment AI shifts from ‘here’s what’s happening’ to ‘here’s what you should do,’ comfort drops by a third.”

Reading between the lines a bit here, it’s also clear to me that consumers aren’t always aware when they’re interacting with AI, especially when AI is used for back office functions. Whether you’re using AI in member-facing application or behind the scenes, it’s important to be transparent. Make sure your members are informed as to how you’re using AI and how it might affect them. And make sure they can always find a human.

Putting your money where your mission is

This is just another great example among thousands, but we noticed this article about Pelican Credit Union in Baton Rouge and its “Dollars for A’s Initiative”. It’s pretty simple: kids can get up to $70 each semester by bringing their report cards to a branch or submitting through the CU’s app. Pelican CU has paid out nearly $440,000 since 2020.

It’s simple, tangible, and directly connected to Pelican CU’s mission and community. And it’s smart; now there are thousands of kids families out there who are lifelong fans of Pelican CU. How are you connecting money and mission, and how are you telling the world? Go ahead and toot your own horn!

Brian Wringer
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