Bits & Banks - With Aditya Khandekar and Mike Kelly - Episode 3
- Corridor Platforms
- Jul 8
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 9
In this candid episode of Bits and Banks: Digital Disruptor Series, we sit down with fintech heavyweight Mike Kelly, a towering figure both literally and metaphorically in the industry. With a legacy of transformational leadership, from his time turning around PSCU to pioneering mission-driven operating systems at TeamOnUP, Mike brings bold, practical insights to the table.
This episode zeroes in on a particularly urgent issue: The rise of credit delinquencies in today’s uncertain macroeconomic environment. Credit unions are seeing increased credit stress in their member portfolios—and Mike doesn’t shy away from asking the tough questions.
Is delinquency a symptom or a syndrome?
Mike dives deep, arguing that:
Delinquencies are a syndrome when they become an obsession. Obsessing over downstream symptoms distracts leadership from upstream fixes.
They’re a symptom when treated as a signal—something to diagnose early and manage with the right tools, talent, and mindset.
Structure and Strategy Go Hand-in-Hand
Mike introduces the concept of onlyliness—the unique value a credit union can provide that competitors can’t replicate. He urges teams to:
Measure what matters: not just end results like delinquencies, but leading indicators like application volumes, processing times, and product usage.
You don’t need massive systems : just strong processes, the right tools, and good partners. Focus on strategy and structure for sophisticated member experiences and ROI.
Precision Over Panic
Mike makes the case for scalpel-level decisioning—adjusting credit strategies with surgical precision instead of shutting off lending altogether.
Credit unions must stay in the game by being elite lenders, not overly cautious observers.
Leadership Matters Most
Mike’s call to action is simple but powerful: “This is a CEO issue.” The executive team must drive alignment, cut through noise, and create actionable frameworks for their teams.
A Powerful reminder from Mike:
“Credit unions have one product, one problem, and one solution. Keep it simple. Align your strategy, structure, and team.”
If you’re a credit union executive or fintech leader, this episode is a must-listen. Listen to the full episode now.