Local Cents by Pillar Bank

In this episode of Local Cents, we celebrate Dairy Month by discussing Wisconsin's thriving dairy industry. Despite a decline in farm numbers, the state remains a key player in the dairy sector. Dairy Month is a significant event in Wisconsin, featuring community breakfasts that bring people together and highlight the industry's importance.

Tune in to this captivating podcast featuring Christina Arnett, Pillar Bank Loan Admin Specialist, and special guest Carrie Kruger, Executive Director of the Baldwin-Woodville Chamber. Discover the rich history and vibrant communities of Baldwin and Woodville, which have been thriving in Wisconsin since the late 1800s.    Learn about the top-tier school district, strong community organizations, be...

In this podcast, hear from Mike DeLong, VP/Commercial/Ag Loan Officer, how agricultural producers experience challenges in a stressful market and how to utilize effective operation management strategies to maintain success. Begin by developing a solid game plan utilizing R.E.M. methodology, assembling a team of industry experts, and regularly reviewing operational costs to ensure informed decision...

This episode of Local Cents highlights the importance of financial literacy for children's future well-being. Pillar Bank's educational initiatives, like the Teach Kids to Save program, involve employees reading stories and leading interactive bank tours to teach money management.   Key takeaways emphasize early financial education, enjoyable learning, community involvement, and ongoing learning f...

The Pillar Community Circle is an employee-led committee at Pillar Bank that aims to enhance community engagement through volunteer work.   This episode of Local Cents highlights the value of volunteering during Wisconsin Banker’s Association (WBA) Power of Community Week, as well as throughout the year.   Listen to this podcast to hear how the committee seeks to involve the community in these eff...

In this episode of Local Cents, Neil Mathwig and Derek Kuehni of Pillar Bank discuss what makes Chippewa Falls a great place to live. They highlight the town's unique charm, local amenities, and organizations like the Chippewa Falls YMCA, led by Derek White, that foster a strong sense of community. Discover how collaboration and involvement with the YMCA enhance residents' lives and strengthen the...

In this Local Cents episode, Lori Davis of Pillar Bank and Adam Ashley of Ashley Construction discuss the evolving world of homebuilding. Topics include rising costs, design trends, and the changing labor market. They also delve into the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association (CVHBA) and how its Foundation's "Tools to Schools" initiative helps students explore construction careers.

Introducing Erik Thompson, a devoted Retail Banking Supervisor at Pillar Bank, who's been serving the Spring Valley community for over 10 years. This charming town boasts thriving businesses, rich history, and stunning landmarks like Crystal Cave and the Midwest's largest dam, creating a welcoming atmosphere where people feel at home. Pillar Bank is proud to be a part of this vibrant community and...

Get your headphones ready for a thrilling experience! The Pillar Bank podcast, featuring Retail Banking Director Chris Olson, is packed with insider knowledge and exclusive tips from the world of community banking that you won't want to miss. In search of an extraordinary gift idea? Our Christmas and Vacation Clubs are here for you! Fun fact: You don't have to limit yourself to using these clubs j...

In this annual podcast address, Pillar Bank’s CEO Shane Bauer shares 2024 highlights including addition of its seventh location in Amery, WI, and how its culture has been enhanced since implementing Pillar Bank Principles. Also hear about the bank’s focus on youth, education, and community betterment through its ‘reverse mentorship’ initiatives in 2025.

Discover the role of a community foundation in helping individuals, families, and businesses leave a legacy for what’s most important to them. Whether it’s for early childhood education, the arts, your hometown, mental health, affordable housing, the environment, or whatever makes your heart sing, a legacy gift forever makes good. Listen in as Heather Logelin, President/CEO of the St. Croix Valley...

Businesses are being targeted by fraudsters who are going back to the basics. One technique is to intercept checks and ‘wash’ them by replacing the payee and dollar amount. Pillar Bank’s Treasury Management Director, Lisa Lyon, discusses the rise in check fraud which started during the pandemic and shares valuable tips on safeguarding your business from this threat. Discover essential measures lik...

Pillar Bank’s Ag Lender, Mike DeLong, interviews and jokes around with client Gary Larson of Larson Ag Ventures. Gary discusses his farming background, passion for agriculture, and the joys of managing 3,000 acres with various crops. He highlights the importance of community support, mentorship, and embracing successes and failures within the industry, maintaining that it all evens out over time....

Simplify your finances with Digital Banking! This Local Cents Podcast explores four convenient ways to send and manage your money online: Person to Person (P2P), External Transfers, Instant Payments, and Internal Transfers. Join Melissa Lokken and Ashley Chevrier as they guide you through these versatile features, making your banking experience effortless and accessible.

Pillar Bank is excited about our seventh location opening in Amery, a charming city filled with picturesque lakes, exciting events, and a strong sense of community! Listen to this podcast with Tony Meyers as he describes all that Amery has to offer including events, shopping, and much more.

Lori Davis, Consumer and Mortgage Lending expert from Pillar Bank, is joined by Dale Strobach, Sales Manager from Design Homes. Design Homes specializes in custom-built, factory-direct modular homes, offering clients the advantage of construction in a climate-controlled environment. The duo discusses the key differences between modular and manufactured homes, highlighting how modular homes meet or...

Mike DeLong, Vice President and Agriculture Loan Officer at Pillar Bank, discusses the state of the farm economy, focusing on dairy, beef, and crop operations. Despite the challenges faced in the past 6-12 months, Mike emphasizes the importance of having a solid marketing plan to maneuver through these times. Yields across the country have been higher than average, and while some may attribute thi...

Discover the charm of Clear Lake, a cherished community in the Pillar Bank family, with Isaac Christensen, our dedicated Agricultural and Commercial Lender. Born and raised in the area, Isaac values working for a bank that prioritizes community support and employee satisfaction. Clear Lake boasts a unique blend of small-town allure and big-town amenities. With notable figures like Earth Day founde...

Listen in with Leanna Larson, a seasoned Universal Teller at Pillar Bank in Spring Valley, WI, as she shares what it’s like to be a Teller with 21-years’ experience. A Universal Teller like Leanna wears many hats – from handling day-to-day transactions such as deposits and withdrawals to opening accounts and managing essential tasks for smooth banking operations. Over the years, she has witnessed...

In this podcast episode, Pillar Bank CEO Shane Bauer shares the transformative impact of the newly introduced "Pillar Bank Principles" program. By focusing on core behaviors that shape interactions between employees, customers, and daily work, Pillar Bank experienced an overnight shift from a good to a great culture. With one principle practiced per week, the bank ensures consistent culture across...

In Wisconsin, summers offer more than state or county fairs, they also bring Farm Technology Days to the state that’s referred to as Dairy Land. This technology fair brings farmers, technologists, and others to gather for three days of Ag camaraderie where visitors will discover the latest in technology that’s helping advance food growth and production.   This year’s event is held August 13-15 in...

You’ve got a great business idea, and you’re ready to take the next step. Or perhaps you’re pondering what it will take to start a business? The success of your new business venture involves several key steps, including access to the right resources. Join Pillar Bank’s Tony Meyers, VP/Commercial Loan Officer, as he guides you through the process of starting a business. This Local Cents podcast epi...

What is compliance? Why is it important? Listen to this podcast as Deann LaValley, Pillar Bank’s Director of Compliance, talks all things compliance. You’ll learn … •Why compliance is important for Pillar Bank •How compliance benefits you as a customer •What simplicity and efficiency have to do with compliance •How our multi-faceted approach mitigates risk

Learn about the key factors to consider when purchasing a home in today’s housing market from experts in real estate and financing. Whether you’re in the market, in the consideration phase, or just want to learn more about today’s market, you’ll gain valuable insights to confidently help you navigate the process, including knowing exactly what the many acronyms mean.  If you’re a first-time homebu...

‘Keep Youthful, Drink Milk’ – just one of the dairy industry slogans that are part of the industry’s rich history.  In Wisconsin, dairy farmers are honored throughout June. Most counties have a breakfast, brunch, or dinner celebration and all are welcome to join. Ag expert Mike DeLong shares his dairy knowledge in this fun and informative episode.