The Vault by FNBO

FNBO
  • 5.0 (7)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Banking. Finance. Community. Unlocked. Welcome to The Vault, a podcast by FNBO. In each episode, we unlock the ideas, stories, and innovations shaping personal finance, the banking industry, and the communities we proudly serve. Tune in for conversations that go beyond the numbers, exploring how FNBO is making a difference through financial insight and community-driven initiatives. *Member FDIC. - Podcasts are for informational purposes only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. Podcasts are not regularly updated and information may become outdated.

Episodes

  1. Unlocking Small Business Success with Four Sisters Boutique

    MAY 7

    Unlocking Small Business Success with Four Sisters Boutique

    In this episode of The Vault, host Melissa Siedlik interviews Sarah Spooner, founder of Four Sisters Boutique in Omaha, Nebraska, about her journey as a small business owner. Inspired by her grandmother and her sisters, Sarah spent three years planning her boutique before opening in 2015 at age 26. She discusses early challenges such as skepticism from others, difficulty securing a retail location, and learning how to navigate starting a business with limited experience. Through persistence, detailed planning, and support from professionals like accountants and bankers, she successfully launched and grew her store. Spooner also highlights the importance of adaptability, creative marketing through events and social media, and building strong connections within the community.Beyond retail, Sarah emphasizes her role as a mentor and leader, especially as a woman-owned business employing young women. She takes pride in creating a welcoming, ever-changing store environment, offering unique merchandise, and helping her employees develop confidence and professional skills. Looking ahead, she shares plans for expansion, including a presence in the Omaha airport and the growth of her wholesale venture, FSB Designs. Throughout the conversation, Sarah offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: plan carefully, stay passionate, be ready to work hard, delegate to trusted experts, and remain resilient. She ultimately reflects on the pride she feels in building a business that positively impacts both her customers and her team.To learn more about Four Sisters Boutique, visit foursistersboutique.com.To learn more about small businesses resources at FNBO, visit fnbo.com/small-business.Member FDIC00:00 - Welcome to The Vault00:16 - Why Small Business Month Matters00:43 - Meet Sarah Spooner01:09 - The Story Behind Four Sisters02:23 - Taking the Leap at 2603:34 - The Early Challenges of Entrepreneurship04:44 - Fear, Resilience, and Learning to Pivot05:54 - Building a Woman-Owned Business07:11 - The Four Sisters Customer Experience08:37 - Growth, Custom Products, and What’s Next10:05 - The Role of a Local Banking Relationship11:01 - Advice for Future Business Owners12:57 - The Behind-the-Scenes Reality of Ownership14:55 - Community Collaboration and Local Pop-Ups15:54 - Delegating and Building a Trusted Support Team17:01 - Social Media, Online Growth, and National Reach17:41 - Proud Moments as a Business Owner18:24 - Closing Reflections#TheVaultByFNBO #FNBO #SmallBusinessMonth #SmallBusiness

    20 min
  2. Building a More Sustainable Future

    APR 23

    Building a More Sustainable Future

    In this episode of The Vault, host Amelis Long sits down with Tim Malik, Senior Director of Facilities and Property Management at FNBO, to discuss how the organization is working toward a more sustainable future. Tim outlines FNBO’s approach, which focuses on managing energy, water, and waste through a data-driven strategy developed over the past decade. That work led to three key goals set for 2035: achieving net-zero Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions, reaching a 90% waste diversion rate, and reducing water consumption by 20%. Five years in, FNBO has already made notable progress, including a 55% reduction in emissions, major gains in waste diversion, and meaningful water savings. The conversation also explores the initiatives behind this progress, including energy-efficient building upgrades, smart lighting and irrigation systems, and a redesigned waste program that emphasizes recycling and composting. Malik highlights the importance of innovation, partnerships, and employee engagement in sustaining momentum as the company grows. He also shares practical ways individuals can contribute, reinforcing that small, everyday actions like conserving energy and water can collectively make a meaningful impact. To learn more about FNBO’s sustainability efforts, read our Impact Report: https://www.fnbo.com/community/impact-report Member FDIC 00:00 - Intro: Building a More Sustainable Future00:48 - What Sustainability Means at FNBO01:20 - Why FNBO Set Sustainability Goals01:51 - FNBO’s 2035 Sustainability Goals02:40 - Progress So Far: Emissions, Waste, and Water03:23 - What That Impact Looks Like in Real Numbers04:37 - What Net Zero and Scope 1 and 2 Mean05:53 - How FNBO Reached 90% Waste Diversion09:02 - Why Water Reduction Is So Challenging09:51 - Building Upgrades That Improve Efficiency12:52 - Smart Irrigation and Smarter Landscaping15:14 - The Challenge of Growing While Reducing Waste and Costs16:17 - Why Sustainability Matters Beyond the Bank17:29 - Easy Sustainability Tips You Can Use at Home

    20 min
  3. Unlocking Financial Clarity with Credit Advisors Foundation

    APR 9

    Unlocking Financial Clarity with Credit Advisors Foundation

    In recognition of Financial Literacy Month, this episode of The Vault explores how to move from financial stress to “financial clarity.” Host Christina Kahler is joined by Sam Hohman, CEO of Credit Advisors Foundation, to break down three practical steps for taking control of your finances: gaining insight into your income, expenses, and credit, setting meaningful goals, and prioritizing the actions that move you forward. Together, they discuss common challenges like living paycheck to paycheck, lacking emergency savings, and the impact of everyday financial decisions. Sam shares practical, judgment-free strategies to help listeners regain control—from starting with a small emergency fund to improving credit and avoiding common pitfalls like debt settlement traps. She also highlights the importance of open conversations about money, working with trusted partners, and understanding your options before problems escalate. Through real-life examples and actionable advice, this episode offers an encouraging, realistic path toward greater financial confidence and long-term stability. To learn more about Credit Advisors Foundation, please visit  www.creditadvisors.org/ or call 1-866-966-7662. 00:00 - Welcome to The Vault by FNBO00:21 - Meet Sam Hohman of Credit Advisors Foundation01:38 - What Credit Advisors Foundation Does03:28 - Financial Literacy vs. Financial Clarity05:31 - The First Step: Build an Emergency Fund07:22 - What To Do When Money Stress Feels Overwhelming08:31 - How Small Financial Decisions Snowball10:01 - Supporting Underserved Communities11:39 - How Credit Counseling Works12:07 - When the Bank Says “Not Yet”13:00 - A Real Story of Financial Turnaround15:43 - First Steps and Free Financial Education Tools17:02 - Why Your Credit Report Matters19:18 - What Services Cost and What’s Free20:19 - Debt Management vs. Debt Settlement22:32 - Final Takeaways on Financial Clarity Member FDIC

    24 min
  4. Building Community Through the Arts: Inside the Tenaska Center

    MAR 26

    Building Community Through the Arts: Inside the Tenaska Center

    In this episode of The Vault by FNBO, host David Cota sits down with Joan Squires, President of Omaha Performing Arts, to explore her journey in the arts and the evolution of one of Nebraska’s most influential cultural institutions. Joan reflects on her path from music educator to arts executive, sharing how she helped build Omaha Performing Arts from the ground up into a statewide leader that now serves hundreds of thousands annually. She discusses her leadership philosophy—centered on high standards, adaptability, and strong teamwork—and highlights the importance of arts education, community investment, and creating shared experiences that bring people together in meaningful ways.  The conversation also spotlights the newly opened Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement, a transformative addition to Omaha’s arts landscape. Designed to expand access to arts education, the center offers a wide range of programs—from Broadway masterclasses and dance workshops to early childhood and community-based initiatives. Squires emphasizes how the facility addresses growing demand while strengthening community connections through creative expression. Looking ahead, she envisions continued growth, innovation, and expanded reach, reinforcing the role of the arts in enhancing quality of life, fostering economic impact, and making Omaha a vibrant, culturally rich destination.  To learn more about Omaha Performing Arts Tenaska Center for Arts engagement, please visit https://o-pa.org/tenaska.  Member FDIC 00:00 - Meet Joan Squires 01:45 - From Music Teacher to Arts Leader 03:05 - Starting Omaha Performing Arts 04:28 - OPA Today and Its Growing Impact 05:20 - Leading with High Standards 06:39 - Why the Tenaska Center Was Needed 07:50 - Programs for Kids, Families, and the Community 09:01 - The Role of Tenaska and Other Community Partners 10:27 - The Power of Shared Arts Experiences 12:25 - Arts, Workforce, and Economic Impact 13:26 - How Families Can Get Involved 14:08 - Community Day Preview 14:51 - Looking Ahead for OPA 16:29 - Future Plans and Final Thoughts

    19 min
  5. Unlocking Agribusiness: Crops, Cattle and Costs

    MAR 12

    Unlocking Agribusiness: Crops, Cattle and Costs

    In this episode of The Vault, host Amelis Long speaks with Barry Benson, Vice President, Agribusiness Banking at FNBO. Barry shares key insights about the U.S. agriculture industry, noting that about 90% of farms are family-owned and many span multiple generations. He highlights the role of corn across thousands of everyday products and discusses current conditions in the cattle industry, where the U.S. cow herd is at a 70-year low due to drought and shifting land use. With strong consumer demand for high-quality beef and limited supply, prices have risen, and rebuilding the herd will take several years due to the long production cycle. The conversation also explores the challenges facing row crop farmers in 2026, as high input costs for seed, fertilizer, and labor collide with declining grain prices. Barry explains how producers are managing through these pressures by closely controlling costs and exploring new market opportunities. He also shares how FNBO supports agricultural customers with financing, cash management, and insurance solutions to help maintain stability through industry cycles. Despite current headwinds, the outlook for several sectors remains positive, underscoring the resilience and innovation of America’s farming families. To learn more about FNBO and our Agribusiness Banking, please visit our website, fnbo.com/commercial-banking/agribusiness or our 2026 Agricultural Outlook. Member FDIC Podcasts are for informational purposes only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. When making decisions about your financial situation, consult a financial professional for advice. Podcasts are not regularly updated and information may become outdated. Chapters 0:00 - Welcome to The Vault Podcast 0:26 - Barry Benson on Agribusiness 0:49 - U.S. Farming Facts and Trivia 3:03 - Beef Prices and Cattle Supply 6:12 - Row Crop Costs and Margins 8:14 - Why Food Prices Are Higher 10:16 - Interest Rates and Farm Planning 12:14 - FNBO Agribusiness Solutions 14:16 - 2026 Agriculture Opportunities 15:24 - Protecting the Family Farm 17:18 - National Agriculture Month 18:20 - Agribusiness Closing Thoughts

    19 min
  6. Mortgage Outlook: Homebuying in 2026

    FEB 26

    Mortgage Outlook: Homebuying in 2026

    In this episode of The Vault, host Amelis Long sits down with Patty Gong, Managing Director, Mortgage to talk about what homebuyers and homeowners can expect in 2026. Patty explains how mortgage rates have stabilized around 6% after the dramatic swings of the pandemic years, offering some welcome predictability for buyers. While affordability and limited inventory are still challenges, home price growth has slowed to a more moderate pace, and wages are expected to outpace inflation - all signs of a gradually balancing market. Patty also discusses how the “lock-in effect” has kept some homeowners from selling, while increased building activity is helping add inventory and shift a bit more negotiating power back to buyers. Her key advice: be flexible, be patient and partner with a trusted loan officer. Whether you’re refinancing, buying your first home, or planning your next move, this episode offers practical guidance to help you navigate today’s evolving housing market with confidence. To learn more about mortgages from FNBO, visit fnbo.com/personal-banking/mortgage-loans. *Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender Chapters (00:00) Welcome to The Vault (00:29) Meet Patty Gong (01:24) 2026 Market Snapshot: Affordability and Availability (02:06) Why 0.25% Matters More Than You Think (02:44) The Real Drivers Behind Mortgage Rates (05:01) Where Rates are Headed in 2026 (06:22) The Lock-in Effect and Why Inventory is Tight (07:54) From Bidding Wars to Negotiation: Buyer Power Returns (09:35) Smart Buying Strategy: Patient, Flexible, Prepared (14:15) Wages vs inflation: What it Means for Your Budget (15:09) Refinance Check: When it Makes Sense (16:23) Down Payment Myths and Help you Might Qualify For (17:03) Real Example: Getting Buyer-ready Over Time (17:54) 3 Takeaways for Buying in 2026 (18:44) Final Thoughts Podcasts are for informational purposes only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. When making decisions about your financial situation, consult a financial professional for advice. Podcasts are not regularly updated and information may become outdated.

    20 min
  7. Cyber Resilience In 2026: What It Really Takes

    FEB 12

    Cyber Resilience In 2026: What It Really Takes

    In this episode of The Vault, host Amelis Long welcomes FNBO Chief Information Security Officer Jeff Weeks for a timely conversation on cyber resilience and what it really takes to stay safe in today’s digital world. Jeff breaks down why many high-profile breaches still come down to simple issues like outdated systems, weak passwords, and rushed decision-making and how attackers increasingly exploit human behavior rather than complex technology. Together, they discuss how awareness, skepticism, and preparation can make a meaningful difference for both businesses and consumers. From recognizing emotionally charged scams to building basic plans at work and at home, the episode reinforces a clear message: cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue, it’s a shared responsibility that starts with slowing down, asking questions, and practicing good digital hygiene. For more fraud and security tips, visit fnbo.com/security-center.Member FDIC 0:00 - Welcome to The Vault: Unlocking Cybersecurity 1:41 - Why Breaches Happen: Ignoring Known Vulnerabilities2:28 - Major Breaches: Mongo DB & The US Judiciary System 4:13 - Social Engineering Tactics: The "Unpaid Toll" Scam 6:17 - How AI is Perfecting Phishing Attacks7:25 - Advice for Business Leaders: The Incident Response Plan 9:11 - Family Safety: Why You Need a "Safe Word" 10:18 - AI Voice Cloning: A Real-World Horror Story 12:37 - Teaching Teens to Spot Scams13:48 - Core Cyber Hygiene: MFA, Patching & Passwords 15:33 - The Hidden Dangers of Smart Home Devices 16:45 - When to Avoid Public Wi-Fi17:33 - Are Smart Speakers Listening to Your Passwords? 19:00 - FNBO Security Resources & Closing

    21 min
  8. The 2026 Investment Outlook – Stay Invested, Diversified, & Disciplined

    JAN 29

    The 2026 Investment Outlook – Stay Invested, Diversified, & Disciplined

    In this episode of The Vault, host Amelis Long is joined by FNBO investment leaders Kurt Spieler, Senior Vice President of Investment Management, and Rusty Vanneman, FNBO’s new Chief Investment Officer, to break down FNBO’s 2026 Investment Outlook and what it means for investors heading into 2026. Together, they explore current market conditions, economic trends, and the key factors shaping the investment landscape, including economic resilience, corporate earnings growth, inflation dynamics, and the continued impact of artificial intelligence on markets. The discussion is guided by the core themes of The 2026 Investment Outlook: Stay Invested, Diversified, and Disciplined. Kurt and Rusty explain why staying invested through market volatility is essential for long-term growth, why diversification is increasingly important amid market concentration in large-cap technology stocks, and how fixed income and alternative investments can play a role in managing risk and improving portfolio balance. They also address common investor questions around AI stocks, gold, and cryptocurrency, emphasizing the importance of rebalancing, avoiding emotional decision-making, and working with a financial advisor to stay aligned with long-term goals. To read the 2026 Investment Outlook, visit fnbo.com/outlook Only deposit products are FDIC insured. Investment Products are: NOT FDIC INSURED • NOT A DEPOSIT OR OTHER OBLIGATION OF THE BANK • NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY • NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK • MAY LOSE VALUE 0:00 2026 Investment Outlook Preview0:38 Meet Our Wealth Experts1:10 A Big Leadership Transition3:37 Meet the New CIO6:18 The 3 Rules for 20269:13 Rule 1: Stay Invested12:44 What We’re Watching in the Economy15:46 Rule 2: Stay Diversified23:20 Rule 3: Stay Disciplined25:29 Rebalancing Made Simple26:20 FAQs: AI, Gold, Crypto30:15 Top Takeaways for 202632:36 Final Thoughts + Next Steps33:23 Disclosures

    34 min
  9. Unlocking a New Model for Children's Mental Health

    JAN 15

    Unlocking a New Model for Children's Mental Health

    In this episode of The Vault, host David Cota speaks with Chanda Chacón, MPH, FACHE, President and CEO of Children’s Nebraska, about her leadership journey and the evolving role of pediatric healthcare. Chanda shares how a personal childhood medical experience shaped her commitment to children’s health, what drew her to Omaha, and why the mission of Children’s Nebraska - to improve the life of every child - continues to guide the organization’s work. The conversation highlights the opening of the Behavioral Health & Wellness Center at Children’s Nebraska, a first-of-its-kind facility in the state designed to meet rising mental and behavioral health needs. Chanda explains the center’s “no wrong door” continuum of care - from 24/7 crisis assessment and urgent care to inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient services - while also discussing her people-first leadership philosophy, the importance of supporting caregivers, and the vision for integrating behavioral health as an essential part of overall health. *Member FDIC, equal housing lender. Podcasts are for informational purposes only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. When making decisions about your financial situation, consult a financial professional for advice. Podcasts are not regularly updated and information may become outdated. 00:00 Welcome to The Vault00:00:49 Chanda’s “Why” in Healthcare00:01:28 Her Path to Children’s Nebraska00:03:36 Why Pediatric Care Is Different00:04:37 Children’s Nebraska Origin Story00:05:13 New Behavioral Health Center00:06:18 “One Door” Continuum of Care00:09:02 Access, Compassion, Hope00:10:33 What to Expect 24/700:12:18 Levels of Care Explained00:13:37 Integrating Care With Primary00:14:17 Supporting Parents and Caregivers00:16:18 Tech + Innovation in Mental Health00:16:53 Building a People-First Culture00:20:33 When the Culture “Clicked”00:22:04 Leading Change With Clarity00:23:38 The Suitcase Leadership Story00:25:35 What’s Next for Children’s Nebraska00:26:28 Navigating Healthcare Uncertainty00:28:47 Becoming a “Shatterproof” Team00:29:48 Closing Thanks and Wrap-Up

    31 min
  10. 168 Years Strong: Building the Future by Honoring Our Past

    12/18/2025

    168 Years Strong: Building the Future by Honoring Our Past

    In this episode of The Vault, we’re celebrating FNBO’s 168th anniversary with a conversation between host Amelis Long and David Cota, Executive Vice President of Banking and a 26-year FNBO veteran. Together, they reflect on FNBO’s history and the moments that have shaped us into who we are today. The episode explores our beginnings in frontier Omaha, where the Kountze Brothers founded FNBO in 1857, and traces our evolution into one of the nation’s earliest nationally chartered banks and a six-generation family enterprise. Amelis and David discuss key innovations on FNBO’s history—from pioneering women’s banking services in the early 1900s to becoming an early credit card issuer in the 1950s—and the belief that each generation must reinvent us to ensure our longevity. Looking ahead, the conversation turns to how we’re carrying that mindset forward through digital innovation, community partnerships, and a culture of constantly raising the bar as we enter our 169th year serving communities across nine Midwestern states. * Member FDIC, equal housing lender. Podcasts are for informational purposes only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. When making decisions about your financial situation, consult a financial professional for advice. Podcasts are not regularly updated and information may become outdated. ⁠00:00⁠ Introduction & FNBO's Historical Overview⁠ 00:41⁠ How did FNBO get started 168 years ago in Omaha?⁠ 02:20⁠ Origins of FNBO: From 1857 to National Charter⁠0 6:22⁠ Innovations & Milestones in FNBO's History⁠ 10:51⁠ Family Leadership & Legacy⁠ 13:50⁠ Modern Achievements & Technology Integration⁠ 19:12⁠ Commitment to Excellence & Future Plans ⁠21:10⁠ Conclusion & Next Steps

    23 min
  11. Welcome to The Vault

    12/11/2025

    Welcome to The Vault

    In this kickoff episode of The Vault by FNBO, host Amelis Long, director of employee programming and belonging, sits down with Regina DeMars, director of content marketing and social media, to discuss the evolution of FNBO’s storytelling platform and the inspiration behind The Vault. Together, they reflect on how The Vault brings the best of Cashology and Banking on KC into one expanded format that goes deeper into authentic stories across FNBO’s markets. Tune in for conversations that go beyond the numbers, exploring how FNBO is making a difference through financial insight and community-driven initiatives. Listeners will also get a first look at what is ahead, including upcoming guests from across our markets, nonprofit leaders, innovators, sponsorship partners, and FNBO experts who are ready to share the stories that matter for our customers and communities. fnbo.com/TheVault *Member FDIC, equal housing lender. Podcasts are for informational purposes only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. When making decisions about your financial situation, consult a financial professional for advice. Podcasts are not regularly updated and information may become outdated.

    10 min
  • 11 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Banking. Finance. Community. Unlocked. Welcome to The Vault, a podcast by FNBO. In each episode, we unlock the ideas, stories, and innovations shaping personal finance, the banking industry, and the communities we proudly serve. Tune in for conversations that go beyond the numbers, exploring how FNBO is making a difference through financial insight and community-driven initiatives. *Member FDIC. - Podcasts are for informational purposes only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. Podcasts are not regularly updated and information may become outdated.

Information

  • Creator
    FNBO
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © FNBO
  • Show Website
    The Vault by FNBO

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